Indian Strategic Studies: Laser Rocket Anti-Drone Systems Being Rushed To U.S. Forces In The Middle East
AI Analysis
The U.S. Navy has expedited the procurement of Electronic Advanced Ground Launcher Systems (EAGLS), which utilize laser-guided 70mm rockets, to counter drone threats in the Middle East. This urgent acquisition, valued at over $24 million, aims to address emerging UAS threats in the USCENTCOM area.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. Navy rushes order for EAGLS counter-drone systems.
- EAGLS uses laser-guided 70mm APKWS II rockets.
- Contract awarded to MSI Defense Solutions for $24,186,464.
- Systems to be deployed within 30 days in the Middle East.
- Procurement driven by urgent UAS threats in USCENTCOM AOR.
Why It Matters
This rapid deployment of counter-UAS technology underscores the increasing threat posed by drones in the Middle East, particularly following recent missile and drone strikes. The use of laser-guided rockets represents a strategic enhancement in U.S. defense capabilities, aiming to protect forces and maintain stability in a volatile region.
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20 April 2024
Laser Rocket Anti-Drone Systems Being Rushed To U.S. Forces In The Middle East
JOSEPH TREVITHICK
[Source Link]
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The U.S. Navy recently put in a rush order for new counter-drone systems that use laser-guided 70mm rockets as their effectors to help defend American forces in the Middle East. The Electronic Advanced Ground Launcher System (EAGLS) is very similar in form and function [to U.S.-supplied VAMPIREs] that Ukrainians [are now using in combat]. The purchase of the EAGLS came just days ahead of Iran's [unprecedented missile and drone strikes on Israel], which have only added to long-standing concerns about uncrewed aerial and other threats to U.S. forces in the region.
Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) [announced on April 12] that it had awarded a firm-fixed-price contract with a not-to-exceed value of $24,186,464 to MSI Defense Solutions for the purchase of five [EAGLS Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems] (C-UAS). This sole-source deal also includes various ancillary items and training support.
EAGLS uses laser-guided 70mm Advanced Precision Killer Weapon System II (APKWS II) rockets, as seen in the video below, to knock down drones.
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"This contract action is" in response to an urgent need to respond to "emerging and persistent UAS threats in the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR)," according to an associated Justification and Approval document the Navy released. U.S. government agencies have to submit justification documents like this in order to receive authority to award contracts without going through normal competitive bidding processes.
"Immediate contract award is critical due to the urgent need of ongoing operations in the USCENTCOM AOR," according to the J&A document. "If the immediate procurement is not made, U.S. Forces will not receive necessary critical C-UAS systems as required for capability in theater."
The J&A says that the goal is for the first EAGLS to be fielded within 30 days of the contract award.
EAGLS is a self-contained system that consists of three main parts: a version of [the Commonly Remotely Operated Weapon Station II] (CROWS II) fitted with a four-round 70mm rocket launcher loaded with laser-guided [Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) rockets], a sensor turret with electro-optical and infrared cameras, and a small radar array. The system is designed to be deployed in either palletized or vehicle-mounted forms. [MSI's website shows] a version installed mounted on a pickup truck-style variant of the 4x4 Humvee light utility vehicle, as is