THOR evolves into Mjölnir to hammer drones
The Mjölnir C-UAS system developed in the US will use the same technology as its predecessor THOR. (Image: AFRL)
The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has selected Leidos to develop a $26 million prototype C-UAS system called Mjölnir, to feature an advanced high-power microwave (HPM) weapon.
Delivery of the prototype is planned for Q1 2023.
The prototype system will be derived from the Tactical High-Power Operational Responder (THOR) C-UAS technology demonstrator, the AFRL noted in a 25 February announcement. The technology will be the same but Mjölnir (named after the hammer of Thor in Norse mythology) ‘will add important advances in capability, reliability, and manufacturing readiness’.
THOR has been tested operationally at an undisclosed African location where it used bursts of intense radio waves to disable sUAS ‘instantly’, the AFRL stated.
Lessons learned from these operational tests will define the new requirements for Mjölnir ‘and will be the baseline configuration for future systems to be deployed around the world’, said Adrian Lucero, THOR programme manager at the AFRL Directed Energy Directorate in Kirtland AFB.
More from Land Warfare
-
Russia details new T-80 tank variant, reports plans for renewed production
Russia has introduced an upgraded version of the T-80BVM main battle tank, designed for increased survivability based on combat experiences in Ukraine and aims to restart production of the type after a 20-year gap.
-
Babcock and Cosworth to test hybrid propulsion in militarised Land Cruiser 70
Babcock has signed an MoU with propulsion experts Cosworth to investigate the use of hybrid power systems in military vehicles and will begin with integrating a Catalytic Generator (Cat Gen) into a 70 Series Toyota Land Cruiser.
-
US increases investments in mortar production capacities
The US Army and companies of the defence industrial base have been expanding and upgrading their facilities as well as improving capabilities to produce mortar systems and rounds.
-
Russia tests C-UAS slat protection over turrets and anti-UAV jamming systems for armoured vehicles
Russian defence companies are adapting to emerging threats and exploring ways to counter top-attack munitions and first-person-view (FPV) UAVs.
-
Taiwan unveils new XT-112 5.56mm assault rifle
Taiwan's state-owned arsenal unveiled a new assault rifle at the TADTE defence show in Taipei.
-
Taiwan reveals new indigenous scout vehicle at TADTE 2023 defence show
Taiwan's military establishment has developed a new 4x4 reconnaissance vehicle design, displayed for the first time at the TADTE defence expo in Taipei last week.