Brazil is without a doubt one of South America’s regional superpowers, a continent now ready and willing to assume greater responsibility for international security. The Latin America Aerospace & Defense (LAAD) 2013 takes place 9-12 April in Rio de Janeiro, one of the continent’s top defence technology shows. Rheinmetall will be on hand in Rio, too, showcasing an interesting range of products and services selected specifically for this important growth market.
Force protection technologies figure prominently in the line-up. On display at the Rheinmetall stand will be its MASS Multi Ammunition Softkill System, a counter-measure system already in service with numerous navies around the globe. Visitors can also inspect the Düsseldorf, Germany-based Group’s ballistic protection segments for land, air and naval applications as well as the ROSY Rapid Obscurant System.
Given the wide range of threats facing today’s armed services, the scalable use of force forms another important focus. Rheinmetall will be displaying state-of-the-art munitions such as its MITHRAS illumination and signalling rockets, the lightweight Fly-K mortar system, its comprehensive family of 40mm ammunition, its acclaimed modular propelling system and an extensive range of medium-calibre ammunition. A model of the cutting edge Lance medium-calibre turret system will also be on show at the Rheinmetall stand.
The Group’s Electro-Optic’s division will be presenting the Vingmate fire control system for 40mm automatic grenade launchers and the accompanying VingSim training system. A number of other advanced products will also be on display, including the MultiRay fire control/aiming device, various laser light modules, GN night vision goggles and the KN200/250 night sight, and the Group’s ZEFF friend/foe identification system, also known as the Dismounted Soldier Identification System.
In the naval capabilities domain, Rheinmetall’s Herold and Herold Navy reconnaissance and surveillance systems are sure to attract attention, as will the NEOSS, the Group’s ultramodern naval electro-optical stabilized sensor system, a modular, fully digital electro-optical director.
Emphasizing its expertise in the field of future soldier systems, Rheinmetall will also be presenting its Integrated Soldier System Programme (ISSP). Developed in cooperation with Saab, ISSP is a candidate for Canada’s infantry modernization programme.
The balloon-supported Persistent Surveillance System (PSS) is suitable not only for monitoring military installations, but also for protecting critical civilian infrastructure. Rheinmetall recently booked an order for the PSS from a private sector corporation that plans to deploy the system to protect its facilities in unstable regions.
Visitors will gain a valuable insight into the world of Rheinmetall simulation technology from the Advanced Network Trainer (ANTares), the Group’s highly versatile, flexibly deployable mobile tactical training system. Along with standard crew coordination training, ANTares provides entire units with a vital tactical mission rehearsal capability, enabling them to prepare for operations prior to deploying, or even in-theatre.
Furthermore, an HX77 8×8 truck with an integrated armour cab will be on show at the MAN Latin America stand. Made by Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles, this highly mobile protected logistical vehicle has proved invaluable in military operations around the world.
One of the most trusted names in the global defence industry, Rheinmetall’s presence at LAAD underscores yet again the Group’s commitment to serving as a reliable partner to the armed forces and security services of nations everywhere.
