Remote Weapon Stations: It’s all about safety

Force protection has almost become a cliché in defence related speeches. Still, it is the single most important element in most operations. On an armed vehicle the gunners are the most important force, but at the same time the most vulnerable. Bringing the guy in the hatch inside has been the simple thought behind development of Remote Weapon Stations (RWS).

Safety of the gunner equals less pressure and stress on this function during operations in hostile climates. Less stress equals more controlled surveillance and use of force.
All this is pretty obvious but recently modern RWS- units have been able to provide this sought-after safety. During the last 10 years or so, technical progress has lead to development within the sector. Products that were mere sci-fi fantasies then, are now reality.

- We have been working on RWS technology since 1999. The last few years the technical development of components such as software, monitors and sensors has opened for huge possibilities, says Paal Andersen, technical supporter at Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace (KDA).
He is just back from an exercise at the Rena army training facilities in Norway where the Norwegian infantry are testing the new PROTECTOR’s from KONGSBERG. Feedback has so far been good.

The recent media reports on collateral damage and casualties among civilians are all tragic events and every unit’s nightmare. The results are often increasing hostility among civilians in the theatre. Commanders work hard to minimize mistakes, experiences with use of RWS’s shows limitations of such problems.

Remote controlled weapons can make a difference
During military operations all over the world, personnel are under constant threat from snipers, explosions and debris. Weather and light conditions can be demanding and plays a significant role for successful conduction of various tasks, be it patrolling or surveillance.
A location under roof and behind armour, with a number of vision modes available, and easily remote controlled weapons can make a difference.

Ironically the Norwegian produced equipment from KONGSBERG has just recently been adapted by the Norwegian army.
Being fairly new to the use of mobile remote weapon stations, the experiences are mostly good.
- New and modern sensors such as night vision, thermal sensors, daylight cameras and control systems are now becoming easier to use, more reliable and elements such as weight and cost are also important for us, says Captain Odd Steinar Skoien who has been given a key role in The Norwegian Army regarding testing of the new systems.
- There are off course pros and cons. Nothing can beat the human eye, nor ears or senses yet. The human eye has still got the best wide angle, but we do not have zoom capabilities or the night/thermal vision like the RWS’s. The latter is a huge advantage. It seems like a common understanding that these systems can see through walls. They are not that good - yet, says, Skoien.
- Regarding firepower and accuracy, the system is doubling our distance capacity. This is a real advantage. During movement and in low light conditions the stabilisers ensures precision that man cannot cope with. The difference is like night and day, literarily spoken, he says.

The Norwegians have their WCS
He adds that they are over all satisfied with the functionality, although the troops are like common people regarding technology, they will always want more.