Eurosatory 2018 : With RAPACE, French Defence Procurement Agency show how to adjust a weapon without shooting.

The weapon setting is specific to each user and nowadays requires a systematic validation by shooting at the shooting range. The RAPACE innovation changes the rule: a unique calibration is now enough. The digital solution RAPACE makes it possible to adjust the weapon without shooting, anywhere and very quickly. This world innovation is developed by the STARNAV Company with the support of the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA - Direction générale de l’armement). Three RAPACE benches already equip the French Special Forces. 

RAPACE system makes it possible to adjust the weapon without shooting (Picture source Army Recognition)

The weapon setting is specific to each user and nowadays requires a systematic validation by shooting at the shooting range. The RAPACE innovation changes the rule: a unique calibration is now enough. The digital solution RAPACE makes it possible to adjust the weapon without shooting, anywhere and very quickly. This world innovation is developed by the STARNAV Company with the support of the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA - Direction générale de l’armement). Three RAPACE benches already equip the French Special Forces.

The system consists of a rail on which the weapon is installed and a touch pad housing a powerful computer and a high-tech optical sensor. At the end of the initial setting at the shooting range, RAPACE records and memorizes any data relative to the weapon and the user. For subsequent adjustments, the system takes several measures, including the positioning of the barrel end and the entrance to the chamber. The algorithm then automatically proposes the aiming point that is materialized by a cross. The user then just needs to look in its optics and to adjust the sights by joining the proposed reticle.

RAPACE brings a relevant solution to the units brought to share their weapons; each shooter can find its own setting on a weapon passing from hand to hand. It can be deployed as a collective system within armies, especially in Special Forces.

Applications of this technology are numerous. It can be used with all weapons of small and medium calibers. RAPACE system is interesting both armed forces and law enforcement units. To increase the shooter confidence, to adapt a collective weapon to a specific user, for maintenance operations, this device allows considerable time savings. The STARNAV company is also studying a version intended for the calibration of hunting weapons.