John Cockerill Defense Enhances Aging Fleet of Combat Vehicles with CPWS Turret at Eurosatory 2024.

John Cockerill Defense (JCD), a leading Belgian defense company, introduced its innovative Cockerill Protected Weapon Station (CPWS) at Eurosatory 2024, aimed at upgrading older combat vehicles like the M113. This integration allows for an increase in firepower and extended operational capabilities without the need for entirely new vehicles.
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At Eurosatory 2024, the Belgian Company John Cockerill Defense displays the integration of its modern CPWS turret mounted on an aging M113 tracked armored personnel carrier. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The CPWS, armed with automatic cannons ranging from 20mm to 30mm, is designed to be mounted on various existing vehicle platforms. Its modular design enables easy integration, revitalizing aging military fleets at a fraction of the cost and time required to acquire new equipment. This upgrade significantly enhances the vehicle’s firepower, making it more formidable on the modern battlefield.

Technical features of the CPWS include advanced targeting systems equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging, and laser rangefinders, which collectively improve targeting accuracy and situational awareness. The system is also designed for remote operation, increasing crew safety by allowing operation from within the armored protection of the vehicle. Furthermore, the CPWS's low silhouette and lightweight design minimize its impact on vehicle mobility and preserve the original performance characteristics of the host vehicle.

The ability to upgrade vehicles like the M113 with the CPWS provides numerous tactical advantages. This strategic move equips older vehicles with increased lethality, making them better equipped to interact and operate in conjunction with newer units, thereby bridging the gap between different generations of military technology. This capability is crucial for forces seeking cost-effective ways to maintain a competitive and capable military presence.

The Cockerill® CPWS (Cockerill® Protected Weapon Station) is a remotely operated station that incorporates the latest proven technologies and supports a variety of medium-caliber 25 and 30 mm guns, such as the NG 25mm M242, 30mm M230LF, and Nexter 25mm M811. It equips light, high-mobility, and troop transport vehicles with robust firepower, enhancing their firing, self-protection, and operational support capabilities.

Operators can load the entire weapons system from inside the vehicle, staying protected by the vehicle’s armor. The Cockerill® CPWS turret can hold up to 150 medium-caliber rounds, depending on the weapon configuration. Additionally, it includes a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun and can be fitted with other optional systems like grenade launchers.

The turret features a high-performance, bi-modal stabilized day/night sight that operates thermally for round-the-clock usage. The aiming system offers the operator a panoramic 360° view, independent of turret orientation. Once a target is acquired, the gun aligns automatically with the aiming system. A ballistic computer enhances the likelihood of hitting targets accurately while the vehicle is in motion.

The capability to integrate modern JCD turrets like the CPWS into both tracked and wheeled combat vehicles significantly enhances the operational effectiveness of aging military fleets. This strategic adaptation allows forces to upgrade their existing assets with advanced weaponry and targeting systems, thus extending the utility and lifespan of older vehicles while ensuring compatibility with contemporary military technologies. This move by John Cockerille Defense at Eurosatory 2024 highlights a cost-effective approach to maintaining a robust and capable defense presence without the need for extensive new investments.