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RAFAEL's RCWS Means Improved Survivability for IDF Forces

04 March 2005

Haifa, Israel -- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have purchased from RAFAEL Armament Development Authority Ltd. Remote Controlled Weapon Stations – RCWS ("Katlanit") in a contract valued at approximately US$20M.

The RCWS is remote controlled by means of a joystick, video display and operating console. The RCWS comprises all the functions which enable it to acquire targets, aim the weapon and fire at a target with high accuracy. The gunner operates while he is within the vehicle and is protected by the vehicle's armor. These features are especially important for operation in urban areas and low intensity conflicts where the troops are exposed to sniper fire, explosive charges etc.

The RCWS interchangeably accommodates three types of weapons: the M 240 7.62 mm machine gun, the M 2 12.7 mm heavy machine gun and the Mk 19 40 mm Automatic Grenade Launcher. It is equipped with CCD and uncooled IR (FLIR)sensors for day and night operation. The RCWS can be slaved to external sources like observation systems, Battle Management Systems (BMS), various sensors etc.

Dr. Eitan Yudilevich, VP Marketing and Business Development states, "We're talking about a weapon station that can be operated simply and accurately while providing optimal protection for the soldiers operating it. The RCWS is another successful product that RAFAEL offers as a solution for urban warfare, low intensity conflicts and border patrol." He adds that" over 750 RCWS units have been sold to seven countries; among them Canada, the US, UK and Australia" for either naval or land applications."

The weapon stations are to be integrated onto the M113 APC, manned and unmanned surveillance towers, and light armored vehicles. The purchase includes delivery of the RCWS units and logistic support products such as training, documentation, spare parts etc. These RCWS units are members of a family that also includes a 25-40mm version of the remote controlled weapon station.

The RCWS ("Katlanit") will be displayed at the LIC Exhibition in Tel-Aviv this week on the "Nemer" and on the Stryker at the Ground Forces Command display, as well as on the M113 and on the Bradley.

RAFAEL designs, develops, manufactures and supplies a wide range of advanced defense systems for all branches of the military and homeland security forces. Tailored to its customer's specific needs, RAFAEL provides state-of-the-art, yet cost-effective systems and weapons in the fields of Missiles, Air Defense, Naval Systems, Target Acquisition, EW, C4ISR, Communication Networks, Data Links, Electro-Optic Payloads, Trainers and Simulators, Add-on Armor, Combat Vehicle Upgrading, Mine Field Breaching, Border and Coastal Protection Systems, UAVs and much more.

For further information please contact
RAFAEL public affairs. Tel: 972-4-8791244