Non-Subscriber Extract
Rheinmetall plans step change in remote controlled weapon station capability
- Article Tools
| 02 February 2007 |
Rheinmetall plans step change in remote controlled weapon station capability
By Rupert Pengelley
Rheinmetall Defence is expected to complete development of a new-generation remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) in 2009. The design objective, according to Rheinmetall representative Peter Stonawski, is to combine the low weight and height of its present lightweight mounts with the weapon effect of its heaviest manned turret, which is that currently being produced for the German Army's Puma infantry combat vehicle, incorporating a 30 mm Mauser MK30-2 cannon. The basis of the new RCWS is expected to be the Mauser RMK30 recoilless cannon, which was successfully test fired aboard a light platform, the 2.8 tonne Wiesel 1 tracked carrier, some years ago.
An entirely new RCWS has been developed by Rheinmetall Landsysteme for the 32 Fuchs 2 NBC reconnaissance vehicles it is supplying to the United Arab Emirates. Designated the WS609E, this incorporates a 12.7 mm HMG mounted on a stabilised platform with a Rheinmetall-developed sensor package, which includes a CCD camera, a cooled IR camera and laser rangefinder. The WS609E is specially adapted to operations in high temperature and sandy conditions, and weighs 288 kg combat ready.
177 of 800 words
© 2007 Jane's Information Group
[End of non-subscriber extract]
Customers with a paid subscription to International Defence Review can access the full article here
If you would like to subscribe, please see our products section for more information and pricing on International Defence Review