John Cockerill Defense Unveils Its New Anti-Drone System for i-X Stealth Combat Vehicle.

Doha, Qatar, March 5, 2024 – In a significant leap forward for military defense technology, Belgian Defense Company John Cockerill Defense unveils its new innovative anti-drone system at the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference (DIMDEX) 2024. This cutting-edge system is designed to enhance the capabilities of all medium-caliber turrets in the company's arsenal and can be mounted on the Cockerill i-X stealth fast attack combat vehicle and Cockerill 1030 weapon station, both of which are being showcased at the event.
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At DIMDEX 2024, Belgian Company John Cockerill Defense displays its Cockerill i-X stealth combat vehicle that can be fitted with an anti-drone system. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)

The new John Cockerill Defense (JCD) anti-drone solution, which has undergone two weeks of rigorous testing in Bulgaria, is engineered to counter drones of various sizes and capabilities, including those that operate at extremely high speeds. Featuring an 'auto-tracking' system that employs state-of-the-art artificial intelligence to lock onto targets and predict their movements, the system has demonstrated exceptional efficacy. This AI technology, previously proven in land systems, has been successfully adapted for aerial threats, working in tandem with Advanced Ballistic Munitions (ABM) to deliver unparalleled performance.

The anti-drone system is compatible with the Cockerill i-X stealth combat vehicle and Cockerill 1030 turrets, offering a versatile defense solution against the evolving threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Cockerill® i-X, known for its interceptor capabilities and modular multi-weapons system, represents a revolutionary approach to territorial defense, enabling forces to engage and neutralize threats before they can achieve their objectives. In tests conducted last October, the Cockerill i-X demonstrated its remarkable agility and precision, hitting targets accurately at speeds exceeding 120km/h.

The Cockerill i-X, developed by John Cockerill Defense, is a revolutionary combat vehicle, distinguishing itself as a groundbreaking system designed for territorial defense and interception. Unveiled at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in March 2022, it is the first of its kind, blending high-speed mobility, formidable firepower, advanced stealth capabilities, and sophisticated integrated intelligence. Designed for both on-road and off-road conditions, the i-X can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h on roads and 160 km/h in desert conditions, boasting a range of 600 km. Its hybrid thermal-electric or thermal engine allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than six seconds.

The i-X's design emphasizes a low profile and stealth, with capabilities like adaptive camouflage and modifications to its infrared and acoustic signatures to enhance battlefield survivability. It features a remotely operated weapon station that can be armed with a variety of weapons including 25mm or 30mm cannons, anti-tank missiles, or rocket launchers, depending on the operational requirements.

The Cockerill 1030 is a state-of-the-art, unmanned turret designed and developed by John Cockerill Defense. It's a compact, lightweight, and modular system that seamlessly blends high firepower, featuring a 30x173mm gun, with the mobility demands of modern armed forces, supported by advanced digital technology for open architecture systems. This turret, designed to meet the needs of various combat scenarios, including desert, urban, and amphibious operations, is praised for its European reliability and high performance standards​.

Born from the fusion of advanced weapon systems technology and rally raid performance expertise, the Cockerill® i-X challenges traditional military operational paradigms. It boasts high-speed mobility on various terrains, stealth capabilities through adaptive camouflage and signature modification, and the integration of multisensor data fusion technology. This technology suite includes Smart Helmet, onboard intelligence AI, cameras, sensors for laser warning systems (LWS), and acoustic gunshot detection and localization. Moreover, the vehicle can accommodate a wide array of weapons, from 25mm and 30mm cannons to missiles and rockets, ensuring readiness for any threat scenario.

Another innovative feature of the Cockerill® i-X is its retractable weapon system, enhancing the vehicle's stealth and speed. The design allows for rapid deployment via air, sea, and land, making it a highly versatile asset for modern armed forces.

John Cockerill Defense's commitment to addressing the operational needs of international armed forces has once again been underscored at DIMDEX 2024, offering a glimpse into the future of military technology and defense strategy.

Defense News March 2024