This month, the U.S. Navy plans to complete the delivery to Ukraine of a new anti-unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) system developed by L3Harris, a key part of the Defence Department’s aid package.
In response to Ukraine’s urgent wartime support needs, the Direct and Time-Sensitive Strike Program Office’s Contingency Operations Team (PMA-242) has begun procurement of missile platforms known as VAMPIRE (Vehicle Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment).
The VAMPIRE weapons systems, a compact palletized launch platform, includes a sensor bullet and a four-charge Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) launcher designed for mounting on flatbed trucks. Traditionally used by the U.S. Navy and Army against air-to-ground targets, the VAMPIRE weapons systems is a laser-guided missile capable of effectively countering unmanned aerial vehicles.
Commander Kevin Raspeth, PMA-242 deputy program manager for foreign military sales, highlighted the rapid delivery of the first four systems within six months, achieved through an innovative contracting strategy and a focused effort to meet the rapid pace of system development.
Robert Galan, PMA-242 Contingency Manager, emphasized that the team has focused its attention on accelerating the delivery of the system to the warfighter, engaging various contractors to streamline processes and ensure the construction and deployment of an operationally effective system.
The upcoming delivery will include the first-ever ATGM with close-in detonator warheads. This key technology enhances the C-UAS mission with a radio frequency sensor that allows the ATGM to target Group 2 and 3 UAVs.
Capt. Alex Dutko, PMA-242 program manager, noted the immediate impact of this weapon system on Ukraine’s ongoing wartime efforts, illustrating the team’s quick response and agility in meeting urgent needs.
Committed to supporting Ukraine’s ground forces, PMA-242 aims to deliver 14 VAMPIRE weapons systems that will enable them to effectively target and neutralize UAVs while strengthening defences against ground threats.
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