ISTEC Secures Contract to Equip British Armys MLRS A2 with Advanced Smoke Discharger System.

According to a PR published by ISTEC Services Limited on January 16, 2025, the British defense company with over 35 years of expertise in weapon integration and smoke discharger systems (SDS), has been chosen to supply the SDS for the British Army's upgraded M270 MLRS A2.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

ISTEC ISL 66SD/4 Smoke Discharger System shown on new MLRS A2. (Picture source: ISTEC)

The M270 MLRS A2 is the latest iteration of the British Army's multiple launch rocket system, designed to deliver precision firepower and enhanced battlefield capabilities. The inclusion of ISTEC's advanced SDS, the ISL 66SD/4, will ensure superior defensive capabilities by enabling the platform to deploy rapid smoke screens. These screens are vital for obscuring the vehicle from enemy observation and targeting, offering both visual and infrared concealment. This protection significantly enhances survivability during maneuvers, particularly under enemy fire, allowing for safer repositioning.

The ISL 66SD/4, a four-barrel vehicle-mounted system, is compatible with all in-service UK 66mm munitions. It features a modular design that allows configurations of two, three, or four barrels, tailored to the platform's specific requirements. Additionally, the system minimizes logistical burdens by being compatible with the UK’s No12 Mk8 smoke discharger. It is equipped with ISTEC’s advanced Fire Control Unit, which includes NVD-compatible LED indicators, an arming safety cover, and four firing buttons, offering enhanced usability and safety for the crew.

ISTEC has a well-established track record of delivering operationally proven weapon integration solutions across land, sea, and air domains. The company has supplied critical systems for platforms such as the WMIK, Mastiff, Viking, and Jackal vehicles, which were extensively used in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2018, ISTEC has also specialized in bespoke SDS solutions for specialist light strike vehicles, further solidifying its reputation for innovative and reliable defense technologies.

At the DVD 2024 event in September, ISTEC announced the delivery of 65 GPMG gun mounts for the MLRS A2. These deliveries, alongside the SDS contract, bring the total value of ISTEC’s contributions to the program via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) catalog to over £1.5 million.

Adrian Webster, Operations Manager at ISTEC, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are extremely pleased to have won this important contract to help equip the UK’s new MLRS A2 platform with the best possible defensive suite of smoke dischargers. Our extensive experience in adapting solutions to meet vehicle geometry and architecture requirements, coupled with our long-standing history with both NSPA and the MLRS platform, makes this an exciting opportunity.”

He added, “This project, combined with the weapons mount systems, further enhances the UK’s defense capabilities with cutting-edge technology, supporting national security and the operational effectiveness of the MLRS A2.”