EDEX 2023: Nexter KNDS showcases ARX 30 RWS modified for anti-UAV.

The Remotely-Controlled Weapon Station (RWS) includes the Nexter ARX 30mm cannon which uses special Airburst ammunition coupled with Safran's Vigeo panoramic optic, MC2 Technologies' Matia UAV detection radar and MC2 Technologies' Nerod RF jammer.
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Nexter/KNDS anti-UAV system based on a modified ARX30 RWS (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Nexter ARX 30 is specifically chambered to accommodate 30mm ammunition, enabling it to fire a range of rounds including high explosive, armor-piercing, and training rounds. The choice of 30mm caliber strikes a balance between destructive capability and ammunition capacity.

In terms of design, the ARX 30 is notable for its compact and lightweight structure, facilitating easy integration onto various platforms such as armored vehicles, helicopters, and naval vessels. It is equipped with an automatic feeding system, enhancing its firing efficiency with a rate that typically ranges between 200 to 800 rounds per minute. This feature is particularly beneficial for engaging both ground and aerial targets effectively.

The effective range of the ARX 30 is adaptable, depending on the ammunition used. It generally performs well up to 2,000 meters for ground targets and can extend its reach up to 4,000 meters for aerial targets. The cannon's versatility is further emphasized by its modular design, which allows seamless integration with various fire control systems and onboard electronics, making it a suitable choice for diverse military applications such as close air support, anti-aircraft defense, and ground support.

A significant aspect of the ARX 30 is its advanced recoil management system. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the platform it is mounted on, thereby ensuring consistent accuracy and operational effectiveness. Additionally, Nexter Systems has prioritized reliability and ease of maintenance in the design of this cannon, ensuring that it performs reliably in harsh battlefield conditions and can be serviced with minimal downtime.

It's important to note, however, that specific technical details like the exact dimensions, weight, and proprietary technologies of the ARX 20 might not be publicly disclosed due to their sensitive and classified nature.

Safran’s Vigeo panoramic stabilized sight

Safran’s Vigeo panoramic stabilized sight provides on-the-move day and night situational awareness acquisition, target designation and high-efficiency engagement. A compact and gyrostabilized multisensory sight Enhanced situation awareness and target designation The best compromise for ARX 30 C-UAV.

Safran’s Vigeo panoramic stabilized sight (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Nerod RF Jammer by MC2 Technologies

The Nerod RF Jammer by MC2 Technologies is an advanced electronic device designed for jamming radio frequency (RF) signals. It works by emitting strong RF signals that interfere with or overpower other RF communications within its operational vicinity. A key feature of the jammer is its ability to cover a broad frequency range, which often includes frequencies used for cellular communications, GPS signals, and other RF applications. The exact range of frequencies it can jam varies depending on the model and its specific configuration.

One of the primary determinants of its effectiveness is the power output. The Nerod RF Jammer comes equipped with a high-power transmitter, ensuring that it can emit sufficiently strong signals to provide effective jamming over a considerable distance. The antenna design of the jammer is another critical aspect. It may include directional antennas for targeted jamming or omnidirectional antennas for a more extensive coverage area, depending on the operational requirements.

To disrupt a variety of RF communications, the Nerod RF Jammer uses multiple modulation techniques. This versatility allows it to interfere with everything from simple analog transmissions to more complex digital signals. The jammer's design might cater to stationary use or portability, with portable models being smaller, battery-operated, and easily deployable in various field conditions.

Advanced models of the Nerod RF Jammer feature user-friendly interfaces, allowing for easy control and configuration. Users can select specific frequencies to jam, adjust the power output, and monitor the operational status. Given the high-power nature of the device, effective thermal management is crucial. Systems like cooling fans and heat sinks are integrated to maintain performance and prolong the lifespan of the jammer.

Compliance with laws and regulations is a critical consideration for RF jammers. The Nerod RF Jammer adheres to specific regulatory requirements, making it legally operable in its intended markets. Its primary use is in security and defense sectors, where it serves to prevent remote detonation of explosives, disrupt enemy communications, or shield sensitive areas from unauthorized surveillance and communication. To prevent unauthorized use or tampering, the jammer may also include advanced security features like password protection, secure operating modes, and tamper-evident seals. These comprehensive features make the Nerod RF Jammer an effective tool for disrupting unwanted RF communications, particularly in environments where security is paramount.

Matia's Terahertz radar

Matia's Terahertz radar for UAV detection is designed for precise and efficient airspace surveillance. Operating within the terahertz frequency band, typically ranging from 0.1 to 10 terahertz, this radar boasts an antenna that is fine-tuned for the transmission and reception of terahertz waves. The high frequency enables unparalleled resolution and accuracy, making it ideal for distinguishing UAVs from other objects.

At the heart of the system is an advanced signal processing unit. This unit is responsible for analyzing returned radar signals, using sophisticated algorithms to not only detect but also distinguish UAVs from other entities like birds or environmental noise. It employs a variety of techniques such as Doppler processing for movement detection, synthetic aperture radar for high-resolution imaging, and advanced algorithms for clutter rejection, ensuring efficiency in diverse environments.

A key feature of Matia's radar is its ability to identify and track targets. It can accurately differentiate UAVs based on size, shape, speed, and flight patterns, and once detected, the system can track their trajectory, offering real-time updates. The terahertz frequency aids in providing high-resolution images over several kilometers, making it suitable for both close and medium-range detection.

The radar's design allows for seamless integration with other defense or surveillance systems, enhancing its utility in various settings. It's compact and power-efficient, making it ideal for deployment on different platforms, including ground stations, vehicles, or other aircraft. This flexibility ensures that the radar can be utilized in a myriad of environments and scenarios.

User interaction is streamlined through a user-friendly interface that displays real-time data, radar imagery, and tracks detected UAVs. Operators can easily adjust settings like scan areas and sensitivity levels and can integrate the system with countermeasure solutions if available. Moreover, the radar is built to withstand various environmental conditions, including adverse weather, thanks to the penetrating nature of terahertz waves.

Defense News December 2023