DSEI 2021: Hard-kill C-UAS solution embraces UGV technology
THeMIS UGV with MSI-integrated automatic cannon. (Photo: Milrem Robotics)
Kinetic C-UAS capabilities using a UGV platform will be displayed jointly at DSEI 2021 on 14-17 September by UK-based MSI Defence Systems Limited and Milrem Robotics of Estonia.
The two companies are exhibiting a Milrem THeMIS UGV integrated with remote weapon systems (RWS) and EO sensors from MSI, as what they claim is a ‘step change in countering mini-UAV, loitering munitions or other small difficult to detect airborne targets’.
The unmanned hard-kill C-UAS systems can carry weapons ranging from a 7.62mm machine gun to a Northrop Grumman M230 30mm chain gun and Thales Lightweight Multirole Missiles, the Milrem and MSI announced on 13 September.
As such, the UGV will be able to ‘find and engage larger air threats as well as ground targets, even if armoured’, without exposing a human operator to undue risk, said Russell Gregory, head of strategy, industrial relations and market development at MSI.
Capt (res) Jüri Pajuste, defence R&D director at Milrem, said: ‘In recent conflicts, there has been an increase in the usage of drones and loitering munition against various military targets. The employment of this type of equipment has made low-level conflicts more lethal.’
He added: ‘Utilising unmanned ground systems with intelligent functions to counter these new threats helps increase force protection, provide flexibility to tactical units to engage aerial and/or land targets, and ultimately reduce loss of life.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
Hanwha debuts with US Army deal worth up to $3.6 billion as it eyes future M109 replacement
The Mobile Tactical Cannon is to replace the US Army’s M777 towed howitzers which could result in the procurement of almost 500 systems at an estimated $3.59 billion.
-
US pours another $23 billion into Arsenal of Freedom to ramp up missile production
The US Department of Defense (DoD) is spending billions of dollars to accelerate missile production to meet demands from the war against Iran and requirements in Ukraine. Manufacture of SM-3 and PAC-3 interceptors is being ramped up, alongside a $22.9 billion commitment to Tomahawk cruise missiles.
-
Rheinmetall advances longer 155mm ordnance with 30% range increase
Rheinmetall has begun initial firing trials of a new 155mm/60-calibre artillery ordnance that could deliver up to 30% greater range than its existing 155mm/52-calibre system, as production of the current gun expands across Germany and the UK.
-
Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum
As Germany prepares its €25 billion order under the Arminius framework – the biggest Boxer procurement to date – the platform could become an increasingly powerful contender in European competitions.
-
British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward
The UK Ministry of Defence has proposed a selection date of May 2027 for the Land Rover replacement requirement, with deliveries expected through to 2036. Next month’s DVD exhibition will be a key shop window for bidders.