The US Army has awarded a follow-on contract to BAE Systems to develop Multi-Class Soft Kill System (MCSKS) countermeasures to protect the army’s ground combat vehicles.
In particular, the British defense manufacturer is expected to further develop its laser-based Stormcrow and Terra Raven countermeasure systems.
These capabilities enhance the US Army’s electronic warfare-based Active Protection System to effectively neutralize threats, such as guided missiles and adjacent threats, while reducing reliance on explosive munitions.
Additionally, the MCSKS contract builds on BAE’s previous Advanced Layered Soft Kill System and the Layered Soft Kill System development programs.
Work on the protection systems is performed at the company’s facility in Austin, Texas.
The tech is also supported by research and development from BAE’s FAST Labs organization based in Merrimack, New Hampshire.
“Today’s combat vehicles need active protection systems that quickly and efficiently counter modern threats,” Director of Integrated Survivability Solutions at BAE Systems Jared Belinsky said.
“Missile countermeasures are part of our full-spectrum approach to electromagnetic warfare. We’re creating an Intrepid Shield™ around our customers’ platforms – improving their effectiveness on the battlefield.”
Terra Raven Countermeasure
The Terra Raven, with its non-kinetic and infrared capabilities adapted from aircraft defenses, increases ground vehicle survivability against anti-tank missiles.
It is fitted with the company’s 360 MVP Sensor situational awareness suite that’s slew-to-cue capable, meaning it automatically detects and tracks threats and alerts crews to them.
Similar to BAE’s other electronic warfare solutions, the Terra Raven features a modular architecture for easy integration and customization for various mission requirements.