EOS weapons systems invading the Ukraine battlefield

The number of weapons incorporating gimbal pointing systems developed by Canberra defence company Electro Optic Systems – and supplied to Ukraine – is increasing with Northrop Grumman demonstrating a new counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capability.

The demonstration at the SOF Week exhibition now underway in Tampa, Florida includes Northrop Grumman’s Mobile – Acquisition, Cueing and Effector (M-ACE) system (pictured) which has been supplied to Ukraine – a modular, adaptable C-UAS solution mounted on two utility-type vehicles.

One vehicle incorporates a M-ACE mast utilising three dimensional (3D) radar, Radio Frequency (RF) sensors, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, global position systems (GPS), and secure radio for transmitting data over command and control (C2) networks.

A second ‘gun truck’ is primarily armed with an M230 Link Fed 30 mm weapon system and proximity ammunition, though it can include directed laser energy systems.

Electro Optic Systems took to social media and said of the demonstration: “EOS is proud to be an integral part of this modular on-the-move Counter UAS solution, defeating moving unmanned systems.”

Northrop Grumman’s system is just one of the many avenues EOS’s gimbal pointing systems, developed from its expertise in laser tracking of space objects, are being utilised by Ukraine.

In April EOS revealed two orders for its Australian-made Remote Weapons Systems (RWS) from the government of Ukraine, the first worth $120 million, and the second valued at $61 million.

An EOS gimbal mounting system is also part of the L3Harris Vampire counter-drone system, itself part of a $3 billion package for Ukraine announced by the Pentagon in October, 2022.

Further reading:
Electro Optic Systems $120 million in supply agreement with Ukraine
EOS announces $61 million RWS supply agreement for Ukraine
EOS looks to supply weapons stations to Ukraine

Picture: Northrop Grumman/Mobile – Acquisition, Cueing and Effector (M-ACE) System