New combination offers the ability to engage slow-speed aerial threats.
Paramount’s Mwari multi-role platform now has the ability to use Aselsan’s ASELFLIR-500 electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor, following the recent completion of an integration activity.
Announcing the development on 6 August, the South African company said the new sensor will enhance its latest offering of the single-engined Mwari for use in the counter-uncrewed aerial system (UAS) role.
It cites the Turkish company’s EO/IR payload as offering “exceptional detection, recognition and identification performance against small aerial targets during both day and night operations”.
In addition to its surveillance performance, the 15in-class ASELFLIR-500 also provides “precision target tracking and laser designation” when engaging threats, it adds.
The sensor package weighs 54kg (119lb), with Aselsan having previously supplied it for use with platforms including Baykar Technologies’ Akinci medium-altitude, long-endurance UAS.
“Countering today’s drone threat requires far more than simply carrying an interceptor,” notes Paramount Aerospace Industries chief executive Lee Connolly. “Success depends on the ability to detect, identify, classify, track and engage small, fast-moving aerial targets quickly and accurately.”
Paramount says the new combination “delivers an even more capable airborne solution to counter the rapidly growing threat posed by one-way attack drones and other UAS”.
“Sensor information is fused within the [Paramount-produced] mission system and presented to the mission operator, supporting positive target identification and engagement decisions,” it says.
Meanwhile, Connolly notes that the open architecture system developed for the Mwari means that its developer can “integrate best-of-breed technologies as new threats emerge”.
“The pace of innovation in unmanned systems is extraordinary. Airborne platforms must be able to evolve just as rapidly if they are to remain operationally relevant over decades of service,” he adds.
The airframer in mid-July announced the launch of a counter-UAS capability for its two-seat aircraft, offering “a range of kinetic effector options” including guided rockets and gun pods for use during stand-off and short-range engagements.
“Operating independently or as part of a wider air defence network, the aircraft can conduct barrier patrols and airborne surveillance missions ahead of defended areas,” the company says.
“For smaller defence forces and operators responsible for protecting discrete high-value assets… Mwari offers an alternative airborne approach,” it adds.
FlightGlobal test pilot Mike Gerzanics put Paramount’s Mwari through its paces for a report in early 2024: read his full review here.
The post Paramount’s Mwari gets Aselsan sensor as focus shifts to counter-drone mission first appeared on FlightGlobal.