European drone in flight
In a significant development for modern warfare, the Estonian company Milrem Robotics has successfully integrated MBDA Akeron LP long-range guided missile systems onto its Type-X robotic platform, as part of the EU-funded MARSEUS program. The Type-X, a heavyweight tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), is now equipped to perform beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) strikes.
The MARSEUS program, launched in 2012, aims to combine and develop fire support vehicles capable of firing non-line-of-sight missiles. The project is funded by the European Defense Fund and involves EU countries, including Estonia, France, Belgium, Cyprus, and Sweden.
The Type-X UGV is configured with a launcher fitted with eight MBDA Akeron LP missiles, arranged in a 4x2 configuration. This setup significantly enhances its anti-tank capabilities. The platform is also integrated with the RFHunter passive RF sensor, which provides real-time situational awareness across the electromagnetic spectrum, allowing for precise targeting and engagement of threats beyond direct line of sight.
The Type-X's mobility and performance are impressive, with a hybrid-electric powerpack enabling speeds of up to 80 km/h. It can traverse slopes of up to 60% and climb vertical obstacles up to 1 meter in height, making it suitable for varied terrain operations.
The combination of the Akeron LP missiles and the RFHunter system positions the Type-X as a formidable anti-tank platform, capable of remote operations in complex environments without requiring physical presence on the front line.
The continued use of self-propelled ATGMs, despite the rise of FPV drones, is under consideration due to their potential combination with advanced technologies. The arc-shaped trajectory of a long-range missile in conjunction with an unmanned carrier could prolong the life of self-propelled ATGMs, delaying their obsolescence.
The testing and integration occurred as part of the Modular Architectural Solution Project for EU countries (MARSEUS). The potential for self-propelled ATGMs to remain relevant in modern warfare is being evaluated through their combination with advanced technologies like unmanned carriers and long-range missiles.
Sources: [1] Milrem Robotics (2021). Type-X UGV. [Online] Available at: https://milremrobotics.com/products/type-x-ugv/ [2] European Defence Agency (2021). MARSEUS. [Online] Available at: https://www.eda.europa.eu/projects/defence-projects/marseus/ [3] MBDA (2021). Akeron LP. [Online] Available at: https://www.mbda-systems.com/products/akeron-lp/
The MARSEUS program, funded by the European Defense Fund, is exploring the combination and development of fire support vehicles equipped with non-line-of-sight missiles like the MBDA Akeron LP, aiming to prolong the life of self-propelled ATGMs through their integration with advanced technologies such as unmanned carriers and long-range missiles.
The Type-X UGV, equipped with a launcher containing MBDA Akeron LP missiles, is positioned as a formidable anti-tank platform, capable of remote operations in complex environments due to its advanced technology integrations, including the RFHunter passive RF sensor.
