Elbit to Deliver Unmanned Turrets for NATO Country’s ASCOD Vehicles

General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) has contracted Elbit Systems to deliver its advanced UT30 MK2 unmanned turret systems for $100 million.

The systems will be installed on the ASCOD armored fighting vehicles and delivered to an undisclosed NATO country by the end of 2027.

Production will involve local companies in support of local secured supply chains.

“We are very proud to have been selected by an additional NATO European user following the very successful firing tests evaluation on the ASCOD platform,” Elbit Systems Land General Manager Yehuda Vered said.

UT30 MK2 Turret

The MK2 features the Mk44 Bushmaster II 30mm autocannon as its main weapon, as well as a mantlet machine gun and anti-tank guided missiles.

Additionally, it is equipped with gunner and commander sights and a Level 4 ballistic protection level under the STANAG 4569. 

Its modular design allows production in both manned and unmanned configurations, as well as the integration of various weapons and targeting devices. 

Likely Recipient

Though the Elbit press statement didn’t identify the recipient country, it is likely to be Latvia.

The Baltic nation signed a deal with GDELS in January to procure 42 ASCOD vehicles for 370 million euros (approximately $414 million).

The ASCOD is the intended replacement for over 100 aging Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance variants received from the UK.

Developed in the 1960s, Latvia donated an unknown number of the vehicles to Ukraine.