Rheinmetall Nordic’s Ragnarok mortar upgrade shows strong integration potential
The Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module has demonstrated its ability to quickly switch platforms, presenting scope for it to be employed for multiple requirements.
MK47 40mm Advanced Lightweight Grenade Launcher. (Photo: GD-OTS)
General Dynamics-OTS (GD-OTS) is to provide US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), SOF and ‘other warfighting commands’ with sustainment parts, spares, and associated sub-assemblies for the 40mm MK47 MOD0 advanced lightweight crew-served grenade launcher.
Work on the $7.8 million IDIQ contract from the Naval Surface Warfare Center will be completed by December 2023, the DoD announced on 13 July.
GD-OTS is systems integrator for the MK47 (which is also known as Striker 40).
The complete system comprises the weapon itself, an AN/PWG-1 Lightweight Video Sight and a family of programmable 40mm ammunition developed by Nammo. It can be fired dismounted from a tripod or installed on light tactical vehicles.
Shephard Defence Insight notes that the 94cm-long MK47 can fire any NATO-standard high-velocity 40mm round.
The grenade launcher has a barrel length of 610mm and can fire 250-300 rounds per minute.
The Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module has demonstrated its ability to quickly switch platforms, presenting scope for it to be employed for multiple requirements.
The British Army’s plans to replace thousands of vehicles have been troubled with resets, delays and change. It is possible, however, that genuine progress is being achieved on two of the three segments in the programme.
The US Army’s organic industrial base still uses World War II production methods and technologies, leading to delays and cost overruns and limiting its ability to produce critical ammunition and maintain its ground fleet in operation.
Manufacturers are speeding up their counter-drone development efforts as countries increasingly focus on procurements to provide battlefield and national protection.
Finnish company SCATA will use the Texelis Celeris chassis for a new vehicle similar to the Serval 4x4 which Texelis is building with KNDS France for the French Army.
The proposed $920 million deal would provide Sweden with a step up from its existing tube artillery and align the country with other northern European nations that have selected the HIMARS platform.