China develops new RPG-defeating net for AFVs

China has developed a new armour system called Flexible Grid Armour (FGA), which is now being marketedClose up of the Chinese flexible grid armour system, which is designed to neutralise incoming single high-explosive anti-tank warheads. (Christopher F Foss) for export by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO).

The FGA is designed to provide tracked and wheeled armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) with increased protection against anti-tank threats, such as the high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead fired by the widely deployed RPG-7 rocket propelled grenade (RPG) launcher.

The system comprises a tubular frame, which is attached a short distance from the hull of the platform and contains strands of taut wire that are secured by square links.

The taut wire is designed to neutralise the piezo-electric fuze of incoming HEAT warheads so that it does not detonate against the hull.

The FGA would not be fitted during routine training as it increases the overall width of the platform and can potentially be damaged when operating in rough terrain.

In addition to the FGA, NORINCO has also expanded its range of explosive reactive armour (ERA) and passive armour packages for AFVs.

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