Feature: Kongsberg's RWS users share C-UAV lessons

Switzerland's Wichlen Schiessplatz test range, where Kongsberg's Protector family of RWSs and turrets were tested in May 2026. (Kongsberg)

An unusual soundtrack echoed across the Swiss Alps in late May 2026: The gentle ringing of cowbells mingled with the sharp thump of medium-calibre rounds striking a mountainside during the annual meeting of the user working group of Kongsberg's Protector family of remote weapon stations (RWSs) and turrets.

Janes was provided exclusive access to the 16th iteration of the event, the first time international press has been granted permission to observe the live fire demonstration and conference which in 2026 took place in Switzerland.

The working group is organised by Kongsberg to encourage collaboration between military customers, operators, maintainers, and industry partners working with Protector.

It was also the first time Kongsberghad organised the working group since the Norwegian company's reorganisation into three main business divisions; Defence Systems; Missiles and Aerospace; and Discovery. Kongsberg Defence Systems now has responsibility for the Protector family.

Day 1 of the working group focused on a live fire range day, hosted by the Swiss Armed Forces and conducted at the Wichlen Schiessplatz High Altitude Training Ground south-east of Zurich. Located 1,350 m above sea level, the range complex ran up a valley towards the 3,158 m Hausstock mountain in the Glarus Alps- a towering peak, lined with evergreen trees and the odd Alpine cow.

The range package was officially opened by the Deputy Chief of the Swiss Armed Forces' Joint Operations Command, Major General Stephan Christen, and attended by 23 of Protector's 31 national customers, including Ukraine.

Countries participating in the event included Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.