L3Harris Technologies has entered into a teaming agreement with IAI-ELTA Systems to deliver a sophisticated fire detection and response capability for Australian armoured fighting vehicles.
The new system is expected to enable a combat vehicle – when it encounters live fires – to immediately detect incoming rounds and initiate self-defence responses, which include a combination of electronic warfare measures and kinetic effects.
“Manufactured by L3Harris Micreo in Brisbane, the system sensors are easily deployed and integrated onto any vehicle. They will not only rapidly detect live fires, but will be intuitive for operators in any battlespace to employ,” Sarah Earey, managing director of Intelligence and Cyber International – APAC at L3Harris said.
The advanced tactical sensors for the system were developed by ELTA, including the StormGuard Tactical Multi-mission Radar System, Othello Optical Threat Locator and Othello-P Opto-Acoustic Hostile Fire Location System.
"IAI looks forward to working with L3Harris Technologies to provide these unique sensors for armored vehicles in Australia,” Zvi Yarom, IAI-ELTA’s vice president and general manager, Land Systems, said. “Together IAI and L3Harris have a superior combined knowledge and capability in this field. Further trials are ongoing with very positive reports, so we are confident that the full system will meet the local requirements."
L3Harris’ decade-long relationship with ELTA has led to the defence systems innovator becoming the prime contractor for the delivery of the solution.
“Our strong partnership with ELTA has ensured they see us as a safe pair of hands, which is why we were approached to provide Australian Industry Capability and act as prime for local projects,” Earey said. “We look forward to working with ELTA to ultimately deliver a truly sovereign capability for Australian service members.”