Kinetic Stryker

Monday, 14 October 2024 12:00 PM Leonardo DRS and BlueHalo have successfully demonstrated their C-UAS Directed Energy (DE) Stryker vehicle, which can counter Group 1-3 drone threats using both kinetic and non-kinetic technologies. The demonstration in Socorro, New Mexico, showed the systems ability to neutralize multiple drone threats. The Stryker integrates BlueHalo’s 26kW LOCUST Laser Weapon System and a 30mm remote weapon station. I think this integration of advanced technologies makes the Stryker a powerful asset in contested environments.

Monday, 14 October 2024 02:51 AM The C-UAS DE Stryker includes two primary kinetic effectors: EOS Defense Systems’ 30mm RWS with Northrop Grumman’s XM914 cannon and BAE Systems’ Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System. The onboard radar, Leonardo DRS’ RPS-92 nMHR, provides long-range detection and tracking capabilities. This multi-layered approach enhances the vehicles effectiveness against various threats. I believe the combination of these systems makes the Stryker highly versatile.

Monday, 14 October 2024 06:26 PM During the live-fire demonstration, the C-UAS DE Stryker successfully destroyed every drone presented over two days, showcasing its capability to engage both drone and ground threats near-simultaneously. The system’s success highlights the effectiveness of the new mobile C-UAS system. The demonstration was a significant step in rapidly delivering air defense capabilities to the U.S. Army.

Monday, 14 October 2024 12:20 PM The development of the C-UAS DE Stryker was completed in just eight months, thanks to the collaboration between Leonardo DRS, BlueHalo, and other industry partners. This rapid development underscores the companies ability to quickly respond to emerging threats. I think this speed and collaboration are crucial in modern defense technology.

Monday, 14 October 2024 05:07 AM The C-UAS DE Stryker is fully integrated with the U.S. Army’s Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control (FAAD C2) network, ensuring compatibility with other air defense systems. This integration enhances the overall air defense capabilities of the U.S. Army. The system will be displayed during the 2024 AUSA Annual meeting.

Monday, 14 October 2024 01:57 PM BlueHalo’s LOCUST Laser Weapon System, which is central to the C-UAS DE Stryker, is operationally deployed, proven, and trusted. Its modularity and ease of integration make it a great fit for the Stryker armored vehicle. The system tracks, identifies, and defeats Group 1-3 UAS and other threats. I believe this laser system is a game-changer in counter-drone technology.

Monday, 14 October 2024 06:09 AM The C-UAS DE Stryker will participate in a two-week concept verification effort at White Sands Missile Range in December, run by the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office. This verification will further test the systems capabilities and inform next steps for its deployment.

Monday, 14 October 2024 03:51 PM Following the successful demonstrations, the team will focus on production and scaling the technology. BlueHalo is building up its manufacturing capacity for the LOCUST Laser Weapon System to ensure it is available for integration with various systems. This scalability is key to widespread adoption.

Monday, 14 October 2024 06:05 AM The C-UAS DE Stryker’s power system is integrated with the vehicle, eliminating the need for battery recharges between cycles. This means the laser can engage targets continuously as long as thermal management is maintained. I think this continuous operation capability is a significant advantage in real-world scenarios.

Monday, 14 October 2024 01:08 AM The demonstration of the C-UAS DE Stryker has drawn interest from the U.S. Army, highlighting the systems potential to address current drone threats effectively. The systems flexibility to use multiple effectors and integrate various payloads is a key feature.