EOS to integrate KNDS 30 mm cannon with next-generation RWS

The R500 RWS is displayed at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi. (Janes/Shaurav Gairola)

French firm KNDS plans to integrate its 30M781 cannon onto Australian company Electro Optic Systems' (EOS') R500 remote weapon system (RWS) under a recently signed partnership agreement between the two companies, a spokesperson for EOS told Janes on 4 March.

Under the agreement, which was signed in February, the companies have agreed to collaborate to develop International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-free systems. The agreement also intends to facilitate integration of EOS' counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) technology with weapons and vehicles produced by KNDS.

The EOS spokesperson said, “The KNDS 30M781 30×113 cannon is already integrated within the [EOS] R400 RWS and will be integrated into the next-generation R500 RWS in 2026, enabling a fully ITAR-free system.”

EOS unveiled its R500 RWS at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi in February 2025. The system incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) and counter‑UAS radar with a high engagement elevation, enabling a reduced man‑in‑the‑loop engagement cycle and improved targeting accuracy. The R500's compatibility with unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) could also support autonomous operations.

The spokesperson said the agreement also enables the companies to explore the development of future products with integrated capabilities.

“EOS continues to evolve its current RWS portfolio while developing next-generation systems. This partnership enables the integration of KNDS cannons into the evolving R400 and supports the delivery of a fully ITAR-free R500 next-generation RWS.

“[The partnership] aligns with the KNDS road map for the 30M781-MPG cannon, including the future capability to fire airburst ammunition, as well as EOS' road map to evolve its RWS through the integration of C-UAS and sensor fusion solutions,” the spokesperson added.