Shadow Jumper is a class of relatively small corvette/LCS combined platforms intended for operations in the littoral zone (close to shore). Their purpose is as a networked, agile, stealthy surface combatant capable of defeating anti-access and asymmetric threats in the littorals.
The original Orion class Corvette was in service for 24 years until severe maintenance problems surfaced, putting its continued use into question. Shadow Jumper was proposed by CNG to effectively fulfill the role of a fast, stealthy, and powerful vessel that could fulfill multiple roles and still be light enough to outrun other ships of its class.
The concept of Shadow Jumper is to create a small, fast, super-maneuverable multi-purpose component to a strike fleet. It is relatively inexpensive compared to vessels of its class and almost twice as fast. Shadow Jumper class vessels fulfill multiple roles such as anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, anti-surface warfare, Elint, Intel and Recon, homeland defense, maritime intercept, special operations, and support roles. Due to this and its modular design, Shadow Jumper will negate the need for more singularly specialized, not to mention slower craft.
Hull, Design and Overview
The Shadow Jumper design is based on a high-speed trimaran (Benchijigua Express) hull. The 418-foot (127-meter) surface combatant requires a crew of a mere 40 sailors. It was designed with enough payload and volume (11,000 cubic meters possible) to carry out one mission with a separate mission module in reserve, allowing flexible mission capability without the need for refit. The flight deck, 1,030 m (11,100 sq ft), can support the operation of three AHU-2 Piranha helicopters, multiple UAVs, or two Falken - Axel 1 Dropships.
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The Shadow Jumper's Trimaran hull design builds upon other stealth-technology utilized weapons systems. It reduces radar cross sections and possible deflection spots, defeating long-range radar scanners that pick up audial-only signatures. The shaping of the hull spreads the thickness into 3 different sections, allowing for a more controlled and agile floating base, and increases the top speeds of the vessel. This hull in no way compromises the ability to take on an increased interior payload, beyond the typical payload of many conventional destroyers, nor does it debilitate speed. Shadow Jumper uses tailored mission modules which can be configured for varied mission packages. These modules may consist of strike aircraft, UAVs, and off-board sensors.
The Shadow Jumper's ability to deliver its combat payload with ease while carrying out other high level operations makes it an ideal flexible combat platform in all battle environments. The mission bay is 15,200 square feet (1,410 m2), and takes up most of the deck below the hangar and flight deck. In addition to cargo or container-sized mission modules, the bay can carry four lanes of multiple tanks, APC's, AFV's and accompanying troops. Elevators allow quick transport of packages the size of a 20-foot-long (6.1 m) shipping container, securing them into the mission bay while at sea. A side access ramp allows for vehicle roll-on/roll-off dock loading and enables the transport of the ARCHER Artillery System.
The living quarters with personnel bunks are located under the bridge. The helm is controlled by joysticks instead of traditional steering wheels.
Propulsion
Stealth is ensured by water jet propulsion, rather than propellers. This prevents:
Use of water jet propulsion avoids common maintenance problems and allows for both a fiercer and safer presence in a waterborne combat zone. Water jets increase the longevity of a vessel a massive 20 years compared to their propeller driven counterparts.
Armament and Defense
Traditional combatant vessels use fixed armament such as guns and missiles. Shadow Jumper boasts the flexible BAE Systems Mk 110 57 mm gun, as its main armament. The Mk 110 is hooked into command and control for both self-defense and offensive capability. It is capable of lobbing shells nearly 9.300 yards at 3.400 ft/s. Gyro-stabilized and capable of being completely automated, the Mk 110 has a rate of fire of 200 rounds/min, and can be controlled manually from anywhere on the ship. Secondary armaments include:
The most notable mission module weapon is the AGM-175 Griffin Ground-to-Air missile. The AGM-175 is a very effective Anti-Air weapons system was that specifically fit onto the Shadow Jumper class to provide an outstanding boost to defense against all Airborne targets within a 20 mile range of the vessel. It's programmed into the TFIP (Target and Friendly Identification Platform) of the vessel. TFIP automatically receives and processes transmissions from nearby units and Command modules that have control over the vessels orders, which then relays the information to the captain of the vessel via projection screens, and directly to weapons systems that have a direct link with the ship. When a target that has not been processed as friendly within the system comes into range of a weapons system, it immediately locks on to and surveys the target until the order to fire or stand down is issued. When a target issued as an enemy enters the range of a weapons system, it immediately locks on to and loads the type of round most effective at eliminating the type of hostile (HE for Ariel, HEAT for Surface, etc), and waits for the command to fire or stand down.
The Raytheon Evolved SeaRAM missile defense system is installed on the hangar roof. The SeaRAM combines the sensors of the Phalanx 1B close-in weapon system with a 11-missile launcher for the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM), creating an autonomous system. Shadow Jumper also has an integrated LOS Mast, Sea Giraffe 3D Radar and SeaStar Safire FLIR. Side and forward surfaces are angled for reduced radar profile. In addition, AHU-2 series helicopters provide airlift, rescue, anti-submarine, radar picket and anti-ship capabilities with torpedoes and missiles.
Shadow Jumper also features a unique and developing Real-Time damage acquisition program that keeps up with the active, successive levels of weapons systems that are firing on the ship during conflict. Located on the bridge, and codenamed AcurKILL, this system is a prototype of a computer generating damage predicting system. AcurKILL alerts ships' command of necessary targets, and those already affected, assessing estimated damage. Based upon millions of pre-tested and entered scenarios, the ship commences lethal fire on the enemy craft, be it ship or plane. Thousands of accurate enemy vehicles are uploaded in the database, with constant updates, allowing AcurKILL to identify the target and relay the information to the ideal weapons system for target elimination.
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SCENARIO #246
Should an Apache gunship approach Shadow Jumper, on-board cameras selectively identify and track unique heat traces and build areas of the target, comparing it to the online database of rotor craft. The Apache is checked over and identified successfully thousands of times, AcurKILL sends the target acquisition information to the AGM-175 Griffin, which then selects the ideal round for the target. The round is fired at the point of greatest penetration for highest probability of success. AcurKILL tracks the launched projectile/missile until either a miss is registered, or target impact is detected. Post-impact, AcurKILL analyzes the velocity and angle of attack of the missile and assesses the need for another projectile to effectively eliminate the target. This process is based on computer generated probability results recorded from previous scenario runs.
Sustainability and Survival
Shadow Jumper must operate safely and effectively with minimal crew. Hence, many systems are automated and monitored by the multi-tasking bridge crew. This cuts down on the need for a multitude of specialized sailors. Fewer manual jobs eliminates crew stress levels, further preventing possible human error during combat operations. The captain and crew are caretakers; monitoring the conditions of the systems of a nearly human-independent vessel.
14 major systems control the actions of the ship. Each system has several backup modules that can be activated in the case of an internal failure in any given system. Much of these systems are dedicated to Fire Control, Identification, and Defense.
Damage assessment is crucial to Shadow Jumper's survivability. Upon detected contact, damage reports are relayed to the nearest command center, bridge command and friendly units during enemy engagement via the ship's advanced CI communications system. Due to near instantaneous awareness between most vital parts of the ship, The nearest dockyards are alerted to have on hand replacement parts for rapid and efficient repair upon Shadow Jumper's arrival in port.
General:
80 vessels; Classification: CPV-XX
Named after rivers and other (fresh) waters
- Corrosion
- Loud Signatures
- Entanglement
- Docking accidents
Use of water jet propulsion avoids common maintenance problems and allows for both a fiercer and safer presence in a waterborne combat zone. Water jets increase the longevity of a vessel a massive 20 years compared to their propeller driven counterparts.
Armament and Defense
Traditional combatant vessels use fixed armament such as guns and missiles. Shadow Jumper boasts the flexible BAE Systems Mk 110 57 mm gun, as its main armament. The Mk 110 is hooked into command and control for both self-defense and offensive capability. It is capable of lobbing shells nearly 9.300 yards at 3.400 ft/s. Gyro-stabilized and capable of being completely automated, the Mk 110 has a rate of fire of 200 rounds/min, and can be controlled manually from anywhere on the ship. Secondary armaments include:
- 1× AGM-175 Griffin (Modified to function on a ship)
- 4× .50-cal guns
- 2× Mk44 Bushmaster II 30mm chain guns
- 2× Raytheon SeaRAM CIWS
- x2 Mk-45 Mod 1/2 (lightweight gun)
- Mk.41 Vertical Launching System
- RIM-66M Standard SAM
- BGM-109 Tomahawk
The most notable mission module weapon is the AGM-175 Griffin Ground-to-Air missile. The AGM-175 is a very effective Anti-Air weapons system was that specifically fit onto the Shadow Jumper class to provide an outstanding boost to defense against all Airborne targets within a 20 mile range of the vessel. It's programmed into the TFIP (Target and Friendly Identification Platform) of the vessel. TFIP automatically receives and processes transmissions from nearby units and Command modules that have control over the vessels orders, which then relays the information to the captain of the vessel via projection screens, and directly to weapons systems that have a direct link with the ship. When a target that has not been processed as friendly within the system comes into range of a weapons system, it immediately locks on to and surveys the target until the order to fire or stand down is issued. When a target issued as an enemy enters the range of a weapons system, it immediately locks on to and loads the type of round most effective at eliminating the type of hostile (HE for Ariel, HEAT for Surface, etc), and waits for the command to fire or stand down.
The Raytheon Evolved SeaRAM missile defense system is installed on the hangar roof. The SeaRAM combines the sensors of the Phalanx 1B close-in weapon system with a 11-missile launcher for the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM), creating an autonomous system. Shadow Jumper also has an integrated LOS Mast, Sea Giraffe 3D Radar and SeaStar Safire FLIR. Side and forward surfaces are angled for reduced radar profile. In addition, AHU-2 series helicopters provide airlift, rescue, anti-submarine, radar picket and anti-ship capabilities with torpedoes and missiles.
Shadow Jumper also features a unique and developing Real-Time damage acquisition program that keeps up with the active, successive levels of weapons systems that are firing on the ship during conflict. Located on the bridge, and codenamed AcurKILL, this system is a prototype of a computer generating damage predicting system. AcurKILL alerts ships' command of necessary targets, and those already affected, assessing estimated damage. Based upon millions of pre-tested and entered scenarios, the ship commences lethal fire on the enemy craft, be it ship or plane. Thousands of accurate enemy vehicles are uploaded in the database, with constant updates, allowing AcurKILL to identify the target and relay the information to the ideal weapons system for target elimination.
Click for Full Size
SCENARIO #246
Should an Apache gunship approach Shadow Jumper, on-board cameras selectively identify and track unique heat traces and build areas of the target, comparing it to the online database of rotor craft. The Apache is checked over and identified successfully thousands of times, AcurKILL sends the target acquisition information to the AGM-175 Griffin, which then selects the ideal round for the target. The round is fired at the point of greatest penetration for highest probability of success. AcurKILL tracks the launched projectile/missile until either a miss is registered, or target impact is detected. Post-impact, AcurKILL analyzes the velocity and angle of attack of the missile and assesses the need for another projectile to effectively eliminate the target. This process is based on computer generated probability results recorded from previous scenario runs.
Sustainability and Survival
Shadow Jumper must operate safely and effectively with minimal crew. Hence, many systems are automated and monitored by the multi-tasking bridge crew. This cuts down on the need for a multitude of specialized sailors. Fewer manual jobs eliminates crew stress levels, further preventing possible human error during combat operations. The captain and crew are caretakers; monitoring the conditions of the systems of a nearly human-independent vessel.
14 major systems control the actions of the ship. Each system has several backup modules that can be activated in the case of an internal failure in any given system. Much of these systems are dedicated to Fire Control, Identification, and Defense.
- AcurKILL
- Emergency Vessel Space Powerlock
- Each ship compartment is sealable via air tight doors, closed to minimize damage based on both system evaluation and command decision.
- External Damage Control and Prevention
- Damage evaluation: identification, location and severity of the impact immediately relayed to crew for immediate assessment and action.
- Incoming Projectile Identification and Elimination (Aerial)
- Incoming Projectile Identification and Elimination (Underwater)
- Weapons Condition and Wear
- Ammo reserves and weapons damage constantly reported to command bridge during and post-conflict.
- Cargo Hold and Capacity
- Pressure plates under cargo bay measure and determine if current cargo hold weight will effect the current and future speed and performance of vessel.
- Provisions Count and Predicted Depletion
- During normal mission parameters and crew levels (40), the vessel can go without additional provision resupply for 2 1/2 months. Resupply via tender, allows extended at-sea capability.
- TFIP
- Command Orders and Active Mission Objectives
- Engine Effectivivity and Output
- Weather Observation and Potential Danger
- Climate Control and Temperature Regulation
- Surrounding Friendly and Enemy Location
Damage assessment is crucial to Shadow Jumper's survivability. Upon detected contact, damage reports are relayed to the nearest command center, bridge command and friendly units during enemy engagement via the ship's advanced CI communications system. Due to near instantaneous awareness between most vital parts of the ship, The nearest dockyards are alerted to have on hand replacement parts for rapid and efficient repair upon Shadow Jumper's arrival in port.
General:
- Type: Littoral combat ship
- Displacement: 2.307 metric tons empty | 3.104 metric tons full
- Length: 127.4 m (418 ft)
- Beam: 31.6 m (104 ft)
- Draft: 14 ft (4.27 m)
- Propulsion: 2× 20V 8000 Series diesel engines; 2x LM2500 gas turbines; 2x VULKAN light weight multiple-section carbon fiber propulsion shaftlines; 2x LJ160E and 2x LJ150E Wärtsilä waterjets; retractable bow-mounted azimuth thruster; 4× diesel generators
- Speed: 39 knots - 45 mph
- Range: 4,000 NM
- Capacity: 210 Tons
- Complement: 40 core crew & up to 35 mission crew
- SAAB Sea GIRAFFE 3D air and surface search radar
- Sperry Marine BridgeMaster E navigational radar
- AN/KAX-2 electro-optical sensor with TV and FLIR
- Northrop Grumman ICMS (Integrated Combat Management System)
- ITT Corporation ES-3601 ESM system
- 4× SRBOC decoy launchers for chaff and infrared decoys
- BAE Systems NULKA active radar decoy system
- 1× AGM-175 Griffin (Modified to function on a ship)
- 4× .50-cal guns
- 2× Mk44 Bushmaster II 30mm chain guns
- 2× Raytheon SeaRAM CIWS
- x2 Mk-45 Mod 1/2 (lightweight gun)
- Mk.41 Vertical Launching System
- RIM-66M Standard SAM
- BGM-109 Tomahawk
- 3x Falken - Axel 1 Dropships
80 vessels; Classification: CPV-XX
Named after rivers and other (fresh) waters