ASELSAN is building the next phase for the SMASH RCWS family with new features including compact turrets for USVs, airburst ammunition, and networked operation.
Anadolu Agency News reported that ASELSAN is working on an array of new features for the long-serving SMASH naval RCWS family that is currently serving on both Turkish Navy and foreign navies’ warships or patrol vessels.
As of now, the SMASH family has its three variants chambered in 12.7 mm (SMASH 200/12.7 or STAMP), 25 mm (SMASH 200/25 or STOP), and 30 mm (SMASH 200/30) is in use by Turkiye and 17 export customer countries. However, to maintain and build on the success, especially with the rise of asymmetric threats to major surface combatants, updates are necessary.
After the emergence of the KORKUT 25 SB line of C-UAS systems using ATOM 25 preformed fragmentation airburst rounds for ground-based use, SMASH RCWS will also receive airburst ammunition. While SMASH 200/25 is sure to receive airburst capability due to calibre compatibility, SMASH 200/30 receiving this is a question. However, it would not take a long time for ASELSAN to develop an ‘ATOM 30’ round, either as a prefragmented type like ATOM 25 or a pellet-spreading type like ATOM 35.
For improved detection and engagement against small surface targets and UAVs, ASELSAN is working on new optical systems and target recognition/tracking algorithms to be integrated on SMASH RCWS variants. It is more than likely that the capabilities gained from ASELFLIR 500 and ASELFLIR 600 EO/IR systems’ development will play an important role in sensing improvements.
On the other hand, networking of multiple SMASH units for coordinated engagements is being worked on to form a better structured layer of defence against asymmetric threats and saturation attacks.
Lastly, similar to the SMASH 200/12.7L example on MARLIN USV, ASELSAN will adapt the other members in the family for USVs with more compact and lighter turret designs.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
