In recent years, remotely controlled weapons modules have increased their presence in military vehicle programs, primarily in the medium-caliber segment. Companies are focusing on expanding the range of tasks for these systems and increasing their capabilities, including the level of autonomy.
There are several differences between the "classic" weapon station and the broader category of uninhabited turrets. For example, in most cases, there is access to uninhabited towers from the vehicle, while in most cases there is no such access to combat modules. This is due to the second big difference - remotely controlled weapon modules (DUMV), as a rule, do not have the same level of armor as uninhabited towers.
In addition, DUMVs are traditionally equipped with smaller caliber weapons, although nowadays they are increasingly seen with medium caliber weapons, including, for example, 30mm cannons.
Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace is a major player in this segment thanks to its DUMV Protector family, which includes “classic” examples and uninhabited turrets such as the MST-30. As for the "classic" systems, it supplied more than 12,000 CROWS (Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station) combat modules to the US Army. In addition, it is also a supplier of MST-30 uninhabited turrets for General Dynamics Land Systems, which installs them on the new Dragoon armored vehicles of the 2nd Reconnaissance Regiment of the US Army, stationed in Europe.
After the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan and Iraq, the need to increase the combat resilience provided by the DUMV decreased and, according to the representative of Kongsberg, Arne Gyennestad, "in this regard, the market as a whole has shrunk slightly over the past couple of years."
American customers of the company focus on updating and maintaining already delivered systems, as well as on upgrading the CROWS module as part of the Technology Refresh program. "We are working to ensure that the necessary technological update is needed, which will give existing systems some new capabilities."
According to Gyennestad, the market itself is becoming more competitive as new companies enter the market or existing manufacturers improve their offerings.
Become cool
“The competition, of course, is getting tougher and tougher. Many companies are trying to catch up with us. However, the company is still receiving new orders for its Protector, both from the United States and from other countries, and more and more DUMV are becoming an indispensable component in the development of new machines,”Gyennestad said.
“DUMVs are an important part of the requirements in many programs, either for the entire fleet or for at least several vehicle types in the fleet. As a rule, this requirement exists in all major combat vehicle programs."
Recently, there has been a growing demand to include a number of "smart functions" in the DUMV, as well as to integrate them into a single network, said a spokesman for FN Herstal, while noting that there is still a significant need for habitable options. “DUMV play an important role in military operations. However, the habitable variants still have something to offer."
The company produces two DUMVs for the ground segment: deFNder Light and deFNder Medium. They can be used in many defensive and offensive missions, including the use of machine guns and smoke grenades, as well as for observation and raising the level of situational awareness.
According to FN Herstal, the deFNder Light module was created as a lightweight remotely controlled firing device, the operator of which is protected by armor. It is intended for vehicles that cannot be equipped with a heavy weapon station, or vehicles that do not require a heavy machine gun, and for perimeter protection. The module is optimized for the installation of 5, 56 mm and 7, 62 mm machine guns.
Meanwhile, the deFNder Medium module can be installed on light, medium and heavy vehicles. It can accept various types of weapons, for example, FN Minimi (FN M249) 5.56 mm or FN M3R 12.7 mm and 40 mm automatic grenade launchers.
In recent years, systems have evolved in different ways due to changing market needs. For example, the company has integrated a radio channel into its modules, which makes it possible to install deFNder on automatic ground vehicles.
FN Herstal, together with Estonian Milrem Robotics, worked on the practical implementation of such a solution by installing the deFNder Medium module on the THeMIS platform. The system was tested in the Spring Storm 2017 exercise in Estonia and demonstrated at several defense exhibitions.
Enhancing opportunities
According to a representative of Rafael, the manufacturer of the Samson family of modules, the ground forces of many countries are increasingly accepting DUMV for supply. “Although some countries still rely on manned towers, it seems that most of the land armies have adopted the concept of DUMV. Examples include the United States, most European countries, the Gulf and Asia,”a company spokesman said. "DUMV have the same fire efficiency as manned variants, but have significant advantages, for example, lower weight, increased survivability (the shooter and commander are well protected), and more cost effective."
The technology has evolved in different directions, primarily by adding advanced image processing capabilities and improved scopes, both day and night. “This allows for long observation ranges and much more accurate target acquisition,” the spokesman said, adding that the new instruments and devices can operate in the most adverse weather conditions. "New lightweight and inexpensive radar stations, becoming part of the target acquisition and acquisition system, will dramatically increase the capabilities of platforms at any time and in any weather."
The Samson line consists of four products, armed with different systems, from 5, 56 mm machine guns to 30 mm cannon. The company has supplied about 1000 DUMVs since the beginning of 2014; currently, over 5000 of its systems are in active operation.
The company recently introduced two new modules. The DUMV Samson 30 is armed with a 30 mm Mk 44 automatic cannon from Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems (formerly Orbital ATK) and a coaxial machine gun. Among other improvements, he received an updated LMS and a new image processing system.
The representative drew attention to the integration of the Trophy active protection complex into the Samson 30 module, noting that this increases the combat stability of the crew and minimizes residual damage to the vehicle by neutralizing threats from a safe distance. More than 2,500 tests of this KAZ were carried out with a success rate of more than 90%, after which it was adopted by the Israeli army.
“One of the main advantages of integrating the Trophy into the Samson DUMV is the ability to identify the source of fire; this allows the crew to respond effectively by timely and accurate location of the fire source. This can be done through the use of the Samson 30 module or interaction with other combat platforms through the operational control network. KAZ Trophy can increase the fire efficiency of combat units, effectively neutralizing enemy anti-tank groups."
The second new Samson Dual system, armed with the M230 automatic cannon from Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems as the main armament, can accept either a 7.62 mm machine gun or a launcher for two universal guided missiles: the Spike LR or the new Spike LR2.
Expansion of markets
The DUMV market is also expanding due to the emergence of new systems. For example, Arquus developed the Hornet family for the French Army's Scorpion modernization program; the system should be installed on Griffon armored personnel carriers from 2019 and Jaguar reconnaissance armored vehicles from 2021. Arquus (formerly Renault Trucks Defense) said they are ready to install Hornet modules on other vehicles.
A spokesman for FN Herstal said there is a growing importance of artificial intelligence in systems for "automatic target detection, recognition and identification and situational awareness." There is also a growing need for higher level modularity and adaptation to different requirements in order to meet the changing and evolving needs of different customers.
Leonardo produces its own line of HITFIST towers (photo below). The company noted a number of market trends in recent years, especially the integration of anti-tank missiles and KAZ into medium-caliber DUMV, which are usually armed with a 30mm cannon. The addition of anti-tank missiles increases the flexibility of detecting and hitting complex targets, such as tanks at long ranges.
According to the company, the evolution of KAZ means that it is currently possible to install them on medium-caliber towers of 8x8 vehicles or tracked platforms. It would be logical to expect large investments in this area in the coming years, since KAZ are able to provide reliable protection of the crew from RPGs and anti-tank missiles.
Gyennestad said Kongsberg is constantly responding to customer needs to increase the range and weapon efficiency of its DUMVs. Increasingly, the military is asking for anti-tank or anti-aircraft missile launchers, such as the Javelin and Stinger, to be installed. “You can have a cannon, as well as anti-tank and anti-aircraft components. You can choose an executive element depending on the purpose."
"This primarily applies to our DUMV Protector LW30." - explained Gyennestad. This system is somewhat heavier than the standard model, but expands the operator's capabilities. According to the company, the LW30 module is armed with a 30mm M230LF cannon as its main armament, but may also include a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun and a Javelin missile.
“This flexibility and modularity allows the full power of the weapons complex to be harnessed for many operational needs. Switching between weapons of different types is easily accomplished by the operator using an intuitive human-machine interface,”said a Kongsberg spokesman, adding that the system architecture allows for the integration of Stinger missiles and other weapons. “It certainly adds a lot, but your options are expanding significantly,” added Gyennestad.
On a wireless path
Kongsberg worked with the Norwegian Defense Research Institute and the Norwegian Army to improve the autonomy of the DUMV and provide full wireless platform control. The solution of these issues would make it possible to install the system on autonomous or remotely controlled vehicles that could follow the crew vehicles or next to them when performing various tasks, including protecting the perimeter of important facilities.
Gyennestad also noted the use of DUMV in the fight against drones, which in recent years have caused increasing concern. “They can be very small, but you still have to deal with them somehow. We are looking at how we can make the best use of the already deployed DUMV, increase the capabilities and give more flexibility to users instead of buying a new complex ad-hoc system to combat UAVs."
In the uninhabited tower market “there is still heated debate about whether to stay with the old inhabited towers or switch to uninhabited technology. But today we see many programs requiring the installation of manned towers."
However, the company has recently won several new contracts for uninhabited systems that need to be fulfilled. For example, it received a contract in March this year for the installation of MST-30 on BMPs purchased by Qatar. According to the company, this is the largest single contract in its history with a potential value of $ 2 billion. In addition to the uninhabited tower MST-30, Kongsberg will supply a DUMV Protector for this program.
Gyennestad believes that "we are at the very beginning of the journey" when it comes to uninhabited towers with medium-caliber weapons. “An uninhabited tower can provide more flexibility than an inhabited tower. With an uninhabited turret, you can free up some space in the car and take more people on board and carry more gear and of course the car becomes lighter."
One of Kongsberg's partners in the supply of MST-30 uninhabited towers for Dragoon armored vehicles is Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems. For example, the vehicles recently deployed in the 2nd Reconnaissance Regiment are equipped with the MST-30 turret, which is equipped with the XM813 automatic cannon, a variant of the Mk 44 Bushmaster, which can be equipped with 30-mm or 40-mm barrels. The company also showcased its M230LF chain cannon in the Kongsberg module, while its systems are also being installed in DUMVs of other companies, such as Rafael, indicating that it is focused on the market for both manned and uninhabited turrets.
“We recently received orders to supply cannons to equip uninhabited turrets,” said Jeffrey Tipton of Northrop Grumman's Armament Systems division. There are so many threats around the world that our customers face, which is why we are seeing a revival in the uninhabited sector. We believe they want to slightly increase their firepower by having heavier weapons on the vehicle, and sometimes this is best suited for an uninhabited turret."
Drone fighting
According to John Cottis of EOS Defense Systems, the fight against unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is becoming one of the priorities of DUMV customers. “The fight against UAVs is currently in the minds of many. This is what definitely comes to the fore."
EOS manufactures the R-400 Stabilized Remote Weapon Station and the larger R-600 model. The R-400 has been bought by several countries, including Australia, the Netherlands and the United States, while the Singaporean army is armed with the R-600 variant. EOS is also working on a lightweight DUMV R-150.
In collaboration with Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems, EOS is developing an anti-drone system, which is an R-400 module armed with an M230 30 mm cannon capable of firing air blast projectiles.
Any machine can become an anti-drone platform, said Cottis, if it is possible to install a DUMV on it. On the other hand, a DUMV can be installed on a ground robot and then it will become a specialized anti-drone or anti-aircraft platform that can work as part of a unit equipped with manned platforms.
Cottis said EOS maintains a common user interface and control systems across all of its surveillance and targeting subsystems. For example, this means that an optoelectronic station from an R-400 can fit a smaller R-150 module or a larger R-600 module without having to replace “under the roof” components. "This is very important because it simplifies training and logistics for all combat modules in a given fleet of vehicles."
According to Oiku Eren of FNSS, investments in sighting systems for uninhabited towers and DUMV are growing.
A number of operators are increasingly turning to dual-band thermal imagers that are capable of operating in the near (long wave) and mid (medium wave) infrared regions of the spectrum. “This gives you tremendous benefits in terms of target detection and identification because the benefits of the two are combined. The NIR works well in smoke, and the MIR works well in hot, humid climates.”
FNSS manufactures a wide range of uninhabited towers such as the Teber family. They can be equipped with 30mm or 40mm cannons and are available in both manned and uninhabited versions. The company is also working on various types of light and medium DUMV for a wide variety of customers.
In the near future, Eren also expects to see helmet-mounted displays that can be used to control DUMV and uninhabited turrets; similar technology is used in fighters and attack helicopters. "This will mean that the operators will work without looking at the display in front of them, it will be as if the machine was equipped with transparent armor."
Future trends
“As technology becomes cheaper, we will see more helmet-mounted displays in terrestrial systems,” he added. "Until now, it was quite expensive and in reality they were used only in the air force, but in the near future we will also be able to see their use on ground platforms."
According to Eren, the capabilities of identification and tracking systems will increase in the coming years as data processing capacities increase. This will automatically identify objects based on images stored in a data library, for example.
“Movement towards uninhabited towers is driven by the need to protect the crew,” Tipton said. "Everyone wants to be able to reload weapons from inside the vehicle without exposing crew members to unnecessary risk from external threats."
According to Tipton, in recent years there has been a growing focus on some types of sensors that can be combined with a gun. Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems is actively working in this direction with its partners, integrating the Mk 44 cannon and other systems into combat vehicles.
We are talking not only about laser rangefinders, but, for example, also about meteorological stations necessary for the guidance of air detonation ammunition. In recent years, there has been a huge leap forward in the field of optical systems for DUMV and uninhabited towers, in particular in infrared and thermal imaging systems.
According to Tipton, despite the growing demand for uninhabited systems, the habitable systems market will maintain its position in the near future. “In 30 years, who knows, but for now they will remain in this or that proportion. Although I see that combat modules are becoming more popular and more and more armies are adopting them."
According to the representative of FN Herstal, in the coming years his company expects a wider use of DUMV in conjunction with manned systems, more and more combat modules will be installed on ground vehicles, which are well suited for protecting the perimeter. There will also be a need to network many different systems together.
A Rafael spokesman said the company expects demand for Samson and similar systems to increase in the coming years. “We believe that in the next five years the role of DUMV will become more noticeable; they will replace manned towers, retaining all their capabilities and adding their own advantages."
Gyennestad expects DUMV and the uninhabited towers “to become an integral part of all major combat vehicle development programs. According to our estimates, the market will remain dynamic. The demand will only grow for systems of this type."
Eren pointed out that there is no one universal solution, he believes that DUMV and uninhabited towers cannot completely replace habitable systems. In several recent programs, customers have chosen manned towers. This proves that these systems are in demand now and will remain in demand in the future.
“The type of weapon system you choose depends on the type of vehicle and its role, be it an armored reconnaissance vehicle, an infantry fighting vehicle, a command vehicle or an armored personnel carrier,” Eren said. "You have to think about the possible set of missions for these machines in order to choose the right weapon system."
