Rafael develops modular Typhoon weapon station

A screen-grab from the video showing the modular C-UAV version of the Typhoon naval weapon station being tested. (Rafael Advanced Defense Systems)

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has developed a platform-agnostic version of its widely used 30 mm Typhoon naval weapon station for use as a standalone counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV), the Israeli company revealed on 31 March, when it released a video of it being tested on land.

The video showed a Typhoon and a collapsible mast for radar antennas mounted on a platform that Rafael described as a “20 ft modular surface” shooting down a multicopter UAV. The company said it was filmed during testing carried out in February that demonstrated the system's ability to neutralise UAVs at various ranges.

It identified the radars as the RADA (now Leonardo DRS) RPS-42 Multi-Mission Hemispheric Radar and said the system also uses the Controp iSea-25 electro-optical system, which was developed for harsh maritime environments.

“The system is equipped with advanced electro-optical targeting systems and automatic fire correction solutions for accurate engagement of aerial threats,” Rafael said. “It is compatible with various platforms, including naval vessels, ground vehicles, and fixed installations, and can be configured for different mission requirements. The modular design facilitates easy installation and integration on different surfaces and vehicles, with quick-connect interfaces for rapid deployment.”

A Rafael source who was involved with the test clarified that this configuration of the Typhoon is designed for naval vessels. “The system is completely self-sufficient, providing situational awareness, target designation, and hard-kill engagement,” the source said. “There is no need to integrate it into the ship's hull, and it can be moved as needed operationally, even to auxiliary ships and other platforms.”

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