Chemring introduces new WASP IED disruptor
Chemring EOD has launched a new lightweight and rugged disruptor for the defeat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The system, called WASP, has been designed to reduce the soldier burden, particularly for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team members on dismounted patrol.
The WASP water-jet disruptor weighs less than 1kg when fully loaded and ready to use, and offers a 2kg weight saving compared to the current in-service Pigstick disruptor. WASP can also be easily carried and operated by a single person, making it ideally suited to both dismounted special forces and conventional EOD.
The system can be deployed using its own lightweight stand; or, using the supplied stand adaptor, can be mounted on conventional tripods or Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV). To increase operational flexibility, WASP has also been designed to work with a variety of cartridges. In addition to being compatible with existing Pigstick cartridges, WASP can be fired using the Chemring 12G cartridge; and this choice in initiation means existing or alternative stock can be used, mitigating potential supply issues.
WASP offers comparable performance to larger disruptors such as the Pigstick despite its lighter design. Since it uses the same water-jet technology that users are familiar with, adoption of WASP requires minimal training.
Mike Luedicke, general manager, Chemring EOD, said: ‘WASP has been specifically designed to meet the needs of EOD operators where the pace of operations requires a minimal weight burden, but still needs an effective and highly reliable IED disruption system. While WASP offers a significant size and weight advantage to users, it still maintains optimum disruptive effect for a wide range of IEDs.’
You may also like
More from Land Warfare
-
![Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions]()
Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions
Sweden, Croatia and France are pursuing different rocket artillery solutions as European armies seek greater reach, survivability and industrial resilience.
-
![MAAF to test Britain’s shift from armour to distributed lethality in Estonia]()
MAAF to test Britain’s shift from armour to distributed lethality in Estonia
The bilateral agreement between the UK and Estonia comes as both countries explore how dispersed troops, drones, digital targeting, anti-tank weapons and increasingly long-range fires can complement the combat mass traditionally provided by heavy armour.
-
![Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow]()
Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow
The Military 850 Voyageur 155 Crossover has secured orders from the US Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, addressing demand for agile Arctic mobility with passenger, cargo and towing capacity.
-
![Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System]()
Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System
Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System is in service with Polish forces and is being introduced to US forces, with further development underway on the original platform as well as a smaller, more mobile system.
-
![UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day]()
UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day
The UK’s plan to introduce a new air defence capability into the British Army will cover short and medium-range defence as well as counter-uncrewed aerial system systems. Timelines are not yet laid out but industry is making plans.
