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DEFEA 2025: WB Group’s Modernized ZU-23-2 Cannon Enables Assisted Firing and Reduced Crew Requirements.
At the DEFEA 2025 exhibition held in Athens, the Polish defense company WB Group presents a complete modernization kit for the 23 mm twin-barrel anti-aircraft cannon ZU-23-2. This system, originally of Soviet design and widely used in numerous countries, is offered in a modernized version called ARM-28, designed to enhance its detection, targeting, and fire control capabilities while reducing the number of required operators.
The modernization kit includes several key components: an electronic control unit, azimuth and elevation motors with manual backup controls, a control panel, a joystick controller, a slip ring for rotational connectivity, a standalone power supply, and wiring harnesses for modular integration (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The ARM-28 electromechanical upgrade converts the ZU-23-2 into a semi-automated or remotely operated platform, equipped with digital electric motors that enable fast and precise aiming in both azimuth and elevation. These motors are also equipped with a manual emergency mode. The system can be controlled either by an operator using a joystick-style controller or automatically via a connection to an external fire control system. It is compatible with modern optronic sights and supports the use of standard OFZ and OFZT ammunition, as well as APDS-T subcaliber armor-piercing tracer rounds. The entire system is managed via a centralized electronic control unit and a control panel that includes a function to program no-fire zones.
The modernization kit includes several key components: an electronic control unit, azimuth and elevation motors with manual backup controls, a control panel, a joystick controller, a slip ring for rotational connectivity, a standalone power supply, and wiring harnesses for modular integration. One of the core elements of the configuration is the optoelectronic sight, which replaces the older 2C27 system and provides thermal imaging capabilities in the 8 to 14 μm band. It features a thermal sensitivity of ≤80 mK, 2x and 4x optical zoom, a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, and an 18° horizontal field of view. The system enables target detection under degraded visibility conditions at ranges of up to 700 meters for personnel, 2,000 meters for light vehicles, and 4,000 meters for helicopters.
The integration of rotational speed sensors and an autonomous power unit allows for extended operational endurance, with a runtime of up to 17 hours. The system supports elevation angles from -10° to +90° and unlimited azimuth rotation. Maximum angular speeds are 0.7 rad/s in elevation and 1.2 rad/s in azimuth, with a maximum angular acceleration of 1 rad/s². The system operates on 24V DC power and is designed for use in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +50°C.
The overall objective of this modernization program is to provide more flexible and automated use of the ZU-23-2. The system can be operated in manual, semi-automatic, or automatic modes, with a notable reduction in crew size—from five to four (commander, operator, and two loaders)—which lowers the personnel requirement while increasing system responsiveness.
The ARM-28 system is developed by AREX Sp. z o.o., a subsidiary of WB Group specializing in the modernization of weapon systems. Its modular design enables rapid integration under field conditions and simplifies maintenance and repair. This type of solution addresses the growing need for semi-autonomous light weapon systems while extending the operational relevance of legacy platforms. The modernized ZU-23-2, in this configuration, is likely to see renewed deployment, particularly among current operators of the original system seeking to enhance short-range air defense at low cost, while adopting equipment that is more compatible with contemporary command and sensor networks.