Remotely Operated Weapon Stations (ROWS) in Modern Warfare
Remotely Operated Weapon Stations (ROWS) have revolutionized modern warfare by providing military personnel with the ability to engage targets from a safe distance, reducing the risk of casualties. These systems are designed to be operated remotely, allowing soldiers to remain protected while still being able to provide suppressive fire or engage enemy targets. In this article, we will explore five common ROWS used by military forces around the world.
1. CROWS (Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station)
The CROWS system is a widely used ROWS developed by the Norwegian company Kongsberg Gruppen. It is designed to be mounted on various military vehicles, including the US Army’s Stryker and MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicles. The CROWS system is equipped with a day/night camera, laser rangefinder, and a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. It can be operated from a remote location, allowing soldiers to engage targets while remaining protected.
🔍 Note: The CROWS system is used by several countries, including the United States, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
2. Samson Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS)
The Samson RCWS is a ROWS developed by the Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. It is designed to be mounted on various military vehicles, including tanks and armored personnel carriers. The Samson RCWS is equipped with a day/night camera, laser rangefinder, and a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. It can also be integrated with other systems, such as missile launchers and grenade launchers.
💡 Note: The Samson RCWS is used by several countries, including Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
3. M153 CROWS II
The M153 CROWS II is an upgraded version of the CROWS system, developed by the US Army. It is designed to be mounted on various military vehicles, including the Stryker and MRAP vehicles. The M153 CROWS II is equipped with a day/night camera, laser rangefinder, and a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. It also features improved target detection and tracking capabilities.
🔍 Note: The M153 CROWS II is used by the US Army and is designed to provide improved target detection and tracking capabilities.
4. OWS (Overhead Weapon Station)
The OWS is a ROWS developed by the US company, General Dynamics Land Systems. It is designed to be mounted on various military vehicles, including tanks and armored personnel carriers. The OWS is equipped with a day/night camera, laser rangefinder, and a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. It can also be integrated with other systems, such as missile launchers and grenade launchers.
💡 Note: The OWS is used by several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
5. Transparent Armor Gun Shield (TAGS)
The TAGS is a ROWS developed by the US company, BAE Systems. It is designed to be mounted on various military vehicles, including armored personnel carriers and trucks. The TAGS is equipped with a day/night camera, laser rangefinder, and a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. It features a unique transparent armor design, allowing soldiers to remain protected while still being able to engage targets.
🔍 Note: The TAGS is used by several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
| ROWS System | Manufacturer | Armament | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| CROWS | Kongsberg Gruppen | 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun | Day/night camera, laser rangefinder |
| Samson RCWS | Rafael Advanced Defense Systems | 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun | Day/night camera, laser rangefinder, missile launcher integration |
| M153 CROWS II | US Army | 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun | Day/night camera, laser rangefinder, improved target detection and tracking |
| OWS | General Dynamics Land Systems | 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun | Day/night camera, laser rangefinder, missile launcher integration |
| TAGS | BAE Systems | 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun | Day/night camera, laser rangefinder, transparent armor design |
In conclusion, Remotely Operated Weapon Stations (ROWS) have become an essential component of modern warfare, providing military personnel with the ability to engage targets from a safe distance. The five ROWS systems discussed in this article, including the CROWS, Samson RCWS, M153 CROWS II, OWS, and TAGS, are widely used by military forces around the world. Each system offers unique features and capabilities, and they continue to play a vital role in military operations.
What is a Remotely Operated Weapon Station (ROWS)?
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A Remotely Operated Weapon Station (ROWS) is a system that allows military personnel to engage targets from a safe distance, using a remote control system.
What are the benefits of using a ROWS system?
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The benefits of using a ROWS system include reduced risk of casualties, improved accuracy, and increased safety for military personnel.
Which countries use ROWS systems?
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ROWS systems are used by several countries, including the United States, Norway, Israel, and the United Kingdom.
Related Terms:
- Remote weapon station
- CROWS system manual
- CROWS system components
- Army CROWS system TM
- CROWS system Manual PDF
- TM 9 1090 222 10
