REMOTE FIREPOWER

Taking a crewman away from a gun allows greater flexibility in the choice of weapon and where it is located.

- Stephen W. Miller

The introduction of unmanned or remote weapon stations (RWS) has altered the design parameters available to combat platform designers. Eliminating the human crewmen from the weapon station opens a range of options in configuring the platform to enhance its capabilities and performance. Although the RWS is more generally applied to combat vehicles, its unique attributes are equally relevant to naval craft and even fixed ground sites.

The RWS is built around a weapon, its ammunition storage and feeding, and optics for acquiring and engaging targets. All are integrated into a structure that can be mounted with minimal intrusion onto a platform. Controlling the station and its functions are done remotely. Advances in electro-optics, digital controls and networks, and high definition displays as well as the introduction of stabilisation are resulting in performance of essential tactical tasks equivalent to a manned turret. The RWS is increasingly becoming a preferred solution for light and medium armament. Ground and naval forces in the Asia-Pacific have joined this move with several defence companies in the region taking leading roles in offering unmanned stations.

RWS advantages