The Armed Forces and FFI tested laser-guided rockets
A military drone flies inconspicuously through the air. A laser attached to it aims at a target on the ground. Seconds later, a rocket soars through the air and takes out the target.
This method of attacking targets was demonstrated at the Blåtind live fire range at Bardufoss in September. In collaboration with the Army and industry partners, FFI demonstrated how lasers – from airborne drones as well as unmanned ground vehicles – can provide targeting data for an attack.
‘Our purpose was to show how the combination of existing equipment and new technology can provide new opportunities,’ says FFI’s Lieutenant Colonel Sven Bjerke.
The rockets were an older 70-millimetre type, fitted with a guidance section that seeks out laser beams. Such projects can contribute to a cost-effective and rapid development of the Army, says Bjerke.
‘We’ve taken a modified old weapons system, combined it with other new technology and used it together with legacy equipment in an innovative new way.’
Safer for soldiers
The laser-guided rockets can be fired from remotely operated weapon stations on unmanned vehicles. Consequently, the soldiers that deliver the fire may remain hidden, reducing the risk of them taking enemy fire.
Drones with laser pointers can locate and designate targets for missiles and rockets. (Photo: FFI/Anders Fehn)
During the test, rockets were fired from a remote weapon station on one of the Armed Forces’ IVECO vehicles. In the future, they may be fired from unmanned vehicles.
(Photo: FFI/Anders Fehn)
(Foto: FFI/Anders Fehn)
Several industry partners were involved in the test, including Thales Belgium, which contributes the rocket technology.
The Armed Forces have not yet decided to use the combination of rockets and lasers in this way, but FFI’s Sven Bjerke says it’s important to demonstrate the potential of new solutions as part of the work with the Army’s Future Combat Unit.
‘Ukrainian forces show an immense willingness to innovate and exploit opportunities. That’s something we must strive to learn from,’ says Bjerke.
