Akeron MP test firings demonstrate BLoS engagement capabilities
Akeron MP BLoS firing demonstration with a Sherpa vehicle. (Photo: MBDA)
Recent demonstrations of Akeron MP in Cyprus marked a ‘major step in the definition of an initial operational concept’ for a European BLoS capability, says MBDA.
MBDA and its partners in the LynkEUs project have successfully carried out the first test firings of the Akeron MP antitank missile (formerly known as MMP) using a full configuration of the BLoS functional chain, including the first BLoS firing of the missile from a vehicle.
The firing demonstrations in Cyprus on 28-29 September marked a ‘major step in the definition of an initial operational concept’ for a European BLoS capability, MBDA noted in a 7 October statement.
Two missiles were fired: one from an Impact turret integrated onto an Arquus Sherpa vehicle (to simulate a full standalone capability), and the other engaging a target designated by a micro-UAV via a cyber-secure link 1km from the missile launch vehicle, to simulate a collaborative engagement.
The LynkEUs consortium, comprising MBDA and 13 partners and subcontractors in five countries, was established in July 2020 to create a European BLoS network-enabled battlefield engagement capability for the Akeron MP missile.
LynkEUs is funded under the European Defence Industrial Development Programme.
John Cockerill Defense, FN Herstal, Safran and Milrem are among the other industry participants in the consortium.
MBDA now seeks to explore extended-range and extended-capacity BLoS capabilities by leading a new EU-funded programme called Modular Architecture Solutions for EU States (MARSEUS).
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Thales Storm 2 counter-drone system being evaluated by potential customers]()
Thales Storm 2 counter-drone system being evaluated by potential customers
The attack drone threat from first-person view uncrewed aerial systems has been highlighted by recent conflicts and Thales has adapted its Storm 2 counter-improvised explosive device jammer to provide protection.
-
![Rolls-Royce to lead powertrain development for MGCS in important step for the programme]()
Rolls-Royce to lead powertrain development for MGCS in important step for the programme
The move signals significant progress for the delayed Franco-German Main Ground Combat System programme with first powerpack prototypes set to be tested before the end of the decade.
-
![Australia’s DroneShield looks to Europe in a drive to massively increase production]()
Australia’s DroneShield looks to Europe in a drive to massively increase production
DroneShield has experienced significant growth in a short period of time, more than doubling its personnel to 500 people in the space of 18 months on the back of both military and civil demand.
