Pearson Engineering Displays New Minefield Breaching System at Eurosatory 2024.

Pearson Engineering showcases its latest innovation at Eurosatory 2024, unveiling the second of its RCV-Pioneer modular payloads designed for minefield breaching. This development follows the debut of the RCV-Pioneer urban obstacle clearance payload at DSEI 2023. The new minefield breaching variant is engineered for large Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and is designed to be scalable to meet various operational requirements.
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For the upcoming trials, the system measures 4 meters wide with mine plow blade extensions and a total length of 10.5 meters, including an approximated host vehicle, with a height of 2.5 meters depending on the host vehicle (Picture source: ArmyRecognition)

The breaching system features two sets of mine ploughs: two track-width blades at the front to protect the vehicle and a full-width set at the rear to create a clear path. Remarkably, this system can be installed or removed from the platform in field conditions in less than 20 minutes without the need for specialist tools. For the upcoming trials, the system measures 4 meters wide with mine plough blade extensions and a total length of 10.5 meters, including an approximated host vehicle, with a height of 2.5 meters depending on the host vehicle. Pearson Engineering emphasizes that these specifications are for the trials system and that the system is scalable.

A company official highlights that this system is likely to be part of a variety of RCV-Pioneer payloads that draw upon Pearson Engineering's extensive experience in the field. These payloads include options for gap crossing, minefield clearance, detection, and other functionalities, all designed to be swappable with common platforms. The official notes that the development of this system anticipates the evolving breaching requirements influenced by recent global conflicts, such as the return to traditional warfare in Ukraine, albeit with modern technological overlays.

Trial plans with several NATO nations are already in development for the period from September to November 2024. The system utilizes Pearson Engineering’s Vector track width mine plough, which was unveiled at Eurosatory two years ago. This mine plough maximizes ploughing capability on lightweight vehicles with lower tractive power compared to traditional armored engineer vehicles. Weighing between 1.2 and 1.5 tons depending on its configuration, the Vector mine plough has been optimized for use with wheeled vehicles and has previously been trialed with the Spanish Army’s VCR 8x8 Dragon. 

Regarding the RCV-Pioneer mine breaching payload, the official explains that the plough sections are arranged around a free-standing and intelligent mission payload frame that enables rapid docking with the chosen uncrewed vehicle. Adjustable jacks lower the frame onto the vehicle before locks secure the payload and vehicle together. The system also uses the same features to unlock the frame from the vehicle and lift it off. 

The operation of the system is managed through a customizable Operator Control Unit, which includes a real-time digital twin visualization to shorten training and mission times. It also features an embedded video screen to enable Beyond Line-of-Sight control.

Pearson Engineering’s innovative solutions in minefield breaching systems underscore its role as a leading developer in military engineering technology. The upcoming trials with NATO countries demonstrate the potential proliferation of these advanced systems across allied forces, enhancing their operational capabilities in challenging environments.