Rheinmetall at CANSEC 2015: a strong focus on maritime competencies

As a top supplier of defence technology systems, however, one of Rheinmetall’s special strengths also consists of effectively integrating and networking components and systems produced by partner companies, which a comprehensive multimedia presentation makes clear. Using a frigate as an example, the presentation includes various options for integrating the latest effectors, sensors and protection systems.

Among the effectors is the operationally proven Rheinmetall Oerlikon Millennium gun which, thanks to its advanced Oerlikon AHEAD ammunition, is capable of neutralizing incoming fast attack craft as well as rockets, artillery, missile and mortar threats.

Also featuring prominently are the remote control 20mm and 25mm gun stations of Oerlikon’s Searanger family. The Umkhonto vertical launch air defence missile is also shown in its extended range form, featuring an intelligent dual pulse rocket motor.

The Seaguard Advanced Fire Control System is a prime example of the globe-spanning Group’s network-capable naval technology. It enables autonomous configuration, control of third-party guns as well as connection to radar and sensor systems. The latter include the Oerlikon Seaguard Biax and Triax, the company’s 2- and 3-axis radar tracking and fire control systems.

In the sensor domain, Rheinmetall’s multimedia presentation encompasses its X-TAR 3D search radar, the MSP 600 multi-sensor platform and FIRST fast infrared search and track surveillance and alerting system – the latter in hardware form.

Serving as examples of the Group’s top-notch protection capabilities are its Multi Ammunition Softkill System MASS – already in service with the Royal Canadian Navy – and advanced ballistic protection packages for reinforcing ship infrastructure.

But state-of-the-art hardware is also on view at Stand #1121. In cooperation with Elbit Systems of Israel, Rheinmetall Canada is displaying a remote control weapon station (RCWS) for .50 and 7.62mm cal. guns, which the partners are putting forward as their entry in the Royal Canadian Navy’s “Naval Remote Weapons Station” (NRWS) competition.

Visitors to the Rheinmetall stand can also inspect the Rapid Access panelized fire protection system, made by CBG. Rheinmetall Canada serves as sales partner for this tried-and-tested technology.

Also on hand is the 76mm Maske bi-spectral smoke/obscurant cartridge. Maske protects armoured vehicles from weapon systems equipped with visual and infrared targeting technology, laser target illuminators and laser rangefinders. Available in 66mm and 76mm versions, it consists of a fast-acting decoy module and a long-lasting smoke/obscurant module.

Of course, Rheinmetall is also showcasing its expertise in other areas at CANSEC 2015. For example, the Group is a leading maker of soldier systems, as its made-to-measure “Future Soldier – Expanded System” technology bears witness, already in service with German Bundeswehr under the name “Gladius”. The variant on show at CANSEC, known as Argus, is Rheinmetall’s solution for the Canadian Army’s Integrated Soldier System Project.

Rheinmetall is also one of the world’s top suppliers of simulation and training technology. At CANSEC 2015 the Group is presenting its Distributed Mission Training Infrastructure, which forms the basis for networking various simulation systems and their specific individual capabilities into a high-performance “system of simulation systems”, enabling complex training in joint and combined operations.