WDS 2024: Saudi company Wahaj integrates Akrab turret onto Estonian TheMIS UGV.

At the World Defense Show 2024 (WDS 2024) in Saudi Arabia, Wahaj, the Saudi advanced technologies company, is showcasing the integration of its Akrab turret onto the Estonian TheMIS Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV). Designed with an emphasis on user-friendliness, the Akrab turret's interface allows for firearm control using one hand, achieved through a joystick and trigger system incorporated into the right handle.
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At the World Defense Show 2024 exhibition, the Saudi company Wahaj is showcasing the integration of its Akrab turret onto the Estonian TheMIS Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV). (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Akrab turret is equipped with a sensor array and a shooting control computer designed for the identification and engagement of moving targets. Additionally, the turret's electronic optical control unit includes a day camera with optical zoom, dual high-resolution uncooled infrared cameras, and a laser target rangefinder, all intended to facilitate target acquisition and engagement over extended distances.

A multi-role encoder provides precise control over adjustments, ensuring the turret's compatibility with various platforms. The turret's structure, made from Ergal, a solid aluminum alloy, is designed to offer structural rigidity and protect internal components in various environments. The Akrab turret's design complies with international regulations, facilitating private export. This compliance is aimed at allowing for the turret's adaptation to different weapons and vehicles, potentially leading to cost reductions in defense systems.

Technically, the turret's optical-electronic control unit employs CMOS technology with a resolution of 1280x720 pixels, offering narrow and wide fields of view. The day camera is specified to detect NATO targets, with a discrimination range of over 15000 meters, a detection range exceeding 5000 meters, and a selection range surpassing 3000 meters.

The turret also features LWIR thermal imaging cameras operating within a spectral range of 8 to 14 micrometers, offering focus ranges from 20 meters to infinity. These cameras provide narrow and wide fields of view, designed to engage NATO targets effectively. The turret's laser rangefinder operates at a wavelength of 1550 nanometers and meets EyeSafe Category 1 standards, capable of making measurements from 1 to 3000 meters with a range accuracy of -/+ 1 meter.

Complementing the capabilities of the Akrab turret is the TheMIS UGV, manufactured in Estonia by Milrem Robotics. It has a maximum payload capacity of 1,200 kg and dimensions that facilitate mobility over challenging terrains. The UGV can operate on a diesel engine with an electric generator or battery packs, providing up to 15 hours of runtime in hybrid mode and up to 1.5 hours in electric mode. Its communication system features a 2.4 GHz MIMO Mesh IP radio with AES256 encryption. Designed to STANAG 3542 standards, the UGV is air transportable, equipped with LiDARs, 1,080p cameras, and LED lighting for enhanced situational awareness.