Chemring launches new PED Mk2 explosives initiator
Chemring Technology Solutions has launched a new successor to its PED100 timer-based programmable explosives initiator, the PED Mk2. The new system is a third of the weight of the original, and includes an integrated programmer.
PED Mk2 has a countdown range from 1 minute to 30 days. The integrated programmer allows the timer to be set in the field to allow greater operational flexibility.
Its capability has also been enhanced to allow it to survive immersion to a depth of 30 meters; as a result the PED Mk2 can be used to support operations that include general combat demolitions, ammunition disposal and underwater mine clearance.
Despite its reduced size and weight, PED Mk2 has greater firing energy (1.5 joules) and a higher countdown resolution of one second which allows for accurate synchronisation of multiple detonations. According to the company, the small size and near silent emissions profile of PED Mk2 also reduces the probability that the timer will be discovered. If discovered, removal of the tear-off keypad makes it impossible to re-programme or repurpose the device.
Mike Luedicke, general manager, Chemring Technology Solutions, said: ‘PED Mk2 has been developed to improve mission efficiency by minimising training needs and delivering a more flexible and precise timing system. As it does not require a separate programming device, it allows the user, such as military engineers, to rapidly set custom time delays at the point of deployment.’
More from Land Warfare
-
![Early prototype of General Dynamics M1E3 main battle tank displayed at Detroit auto show]()
Early prototype of General Dynamics M1E3 main battle tank displayed at Detroit auto show
The first prototype M1E3 main battle tank was handed over to the US Army for testing and evaluation earlier this year, and now a pre-prototype has been unveiled. What have we learned from the vehicle first seen on 14 January?
-
![Bulgaria to receive first Strykers in February as part of force equipment refresh]()
Bulgaria to receive first Strykers in February as part of force equipment refresh
The delivery of the Stryker infantry fighting vehicles will form one piece of the country’s effort to re-equip its forces, which includes F-16 fighter jets and new air defence systems.
-
![Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx fighting vehicles set for first taste of combat in Ukraine]()
Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx fighting vehicles set for first taste of combat in Ukraine
A June 2024 agreement with Ukraine for Rheinmetall to provide 10 KF41s along with the establishment of a manufacturing facility in the country has moved a step closer, with the factory now built and a contract signed.
-
![Germany increases Arrow missile defence deal to $6.1 billion as American interest grows]()
Germany increases Arrow missile defence deal to $6.1 billion as American interest grows
Germany’s move to buy Israel Aerospace Industries’ Arrow missile defence system became public in mid-2023 with approval from the US government shortly after. The first operational system is expected to be in service before 2030.
-
![Sweden’s recent air defence spend tips to $6 billion with 2026 procurement planned]()
Sweden’s recent air defence spend tips to $6 billion with 2026 procurement planned
Procurement of various short-range systems will begin in the first quarter of 2026, with additional procurements to be made later in the year.
