EDEX 2021: Hanwha Defense displays light-weight RCWS.

The South Korean firm Hanwha Defense showcases its latest light-weight RCWS (remote controlled weapon station) at EDEX 2021, Egypt Defence Expo, held in Cairo from 29 November to 2 December 2021.

Light-weight RCWS displayed at EDEX 2021 (Picture source: Hanwha Defense)

Apart from the K9 Thunder howitzer,  a light-weight RCWS is on display. Fitted with the K6 or K4 machine gun, the new RCWS variant can be integrated to tanks, armored vehicles and light-tactical vehicles.

The company also produce bigger model for Tanks and Armored Vehicles (Multiple Weapon Combination) and for Naval Vessels:

K6 and K4 machine guns fitted with the surveillance targeting system on the upper deck of the Korean Assault Amphibious Vehicle can be remotely controlled to operate the targeting and smoke screen system from the interior of the vehicle. Accurate automatic targeting of enemy threats is possible even while stationary.

RCWS for Tanks and Armored Vehicles (Multiple Weapon Combination) and for Naval Vessels (Picture source: Hanwha Defense)

The 12.7mm Remote Firing Control System was developed for use with naval vessels and is operated in close-quarter defense situations on patrol boats, gunboats, and battleships. The system is attached to a K6 machine gun on the exterior of the vessel and is remotely controlled from within the interior of the vessel. The equipment enables automatic tracking and, when necessary, firing even while mobile. Hanwha Defense has successfully achieved vessel integration for future gunboats and harbor patrol boats for the first time in the domestic market, and these are currently being utilized in the field by the Korean Naval Forces.

Hanwha Defense is the only company in South Korea to develop and produce RCWS of its own and were awarded contracts to build these for the high-speed patrol vessels and the amphibious assault vehicles operated by the South Korean Navy and Marine Corps, respectively.