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.’
More from Land Warfare
-
Sweden and Denmark sign for $2.5 billion of BAE Systems' CV90 combat vehicles
Denmark is buying 115 CV9035 MkIIICs and Sweden 50 with the agreement also including further vehicles for Ukraine financed by the two governments.
-
Poland commits another $4.2 billion for howitzers and rocket launch systems
Poland has signed contracts for US$14.4 billion in helicopters, $3 billion in light attack fighter aircraft and $6.5 billion in air and coastal defence systems and now billions more on rocket and artillery systems.
-
I/ITSEC 2024: 3D perception announces next-generation simulation software WarpCore
The company is also showcasing the Draco and Atlas simulators at I/ITSEC 2024.
-
Trophy APS ordered for new German Leopards
Rafael Advanced Defence Systems’ Trophy active protection system (APS) has been deployed extensively onboard armoured vehicles used by the Israeli Army.
-
Rheinmetall locks in $950 million purchase of US company to strengthen position
Rheinmetall is working to open up the US market and the potential billions of dollars on offer. In order to get in the door it has purchased engineering company Loc Performance Products.
-
General Atomic wins contract to further develop Long Range Manoeuvring Projectile
The round is designed to be fired from 155mm artillery systems but there is potential for it to be further developed as a naval asset. Manufacture could begin in 2026.