ROKETSAN paired FNSS's KAPLAN STA with UGVs using the AGMOSS (Network-Centric Autonomous Weapon System) to introduce MUM-T capability into fire support.

The AGMOSS system will allow KAPLAN STA and other vehicles with the KMC-U weapon system to act as the command node to four UGVs, which can be fitted with different weapons.

The video unveiled the 4x4 UGV from IDEF25 with the KMC-U turret plus a UAV for scouting/target designation, PALEM UGV with a turret combining KARAOK ATGM and 12.7 mm machine gun, and two PUSU vehicles converted for unmanned use with the same turret as PALEM UGV (One with KARAOK and the other with OMTAS).

It is understood that ROKETSAN has developed PUSU in different configurations.

The manned configuration in its updated state uses CİRİT laser-guided missiles, four AESA radars, and a gimbal EO/IR system. This configuration has been seen to have C-UAS capabilities from a recent test where a UAV replicating a Shaheed-136/Geran-2 UAV was successfully shot down.

The unmanned configuration with a new turret combining short to medium-range ATGMs with a machine gun can be regarded to be an alternative UGV using a ready-to-fit platform, as one could ask why PUSU would be used as a UGV when there are two types of actual UGVs present.

KAPLAN STA Becomes the Shooter and Commander

KAPLAN STA with the KMC-U system is seen to fire the UMTAS-GM Block 1 extended-range ATGM missile at a static target designated by a UAV taking off from the 4x4 UGV with the.

Later on, the unmanned PUSU vehicles are coordinated from the KAPLAN STA vehicle to get into firing position. The video shows that there are no drivers present in the pickups as well.

One of the PUSU vehicles is seen firing its 12.7 mm machine gun upon the corresponding command from the control panel, which has separate commands to fire the ATGM and the machine gun (single-shot and burst fire options available).

Introducing UGVs to fire support vehicles, similarly to the loyal wingman concept for fighter jets, brings a series of advantages, including:

• UGVs acting as remote sensors to find targets (As seen from the 4x4 UGV carrying an UAV)
• Approaching positions that are too dangerous for the command vehicle, especially terrain with ambush risks
• More targets can be engaged, both simultaneously and in total

Eventually, AGMOSS might evolve towards providing more than extra eyes and anti-ground firepower, considering the modularity of UGVs. For example, it is possible to add UGVs fitted with anti-air weaponry for shooting down UAVs or low-flying aircraft to cover for a lack of SHORAD vehicles to the pack. ASELSAN’s Unmanned GÜRZ solution which fits this description, onboard a Medium-2 class UGV, with SUNGUR missiles and 30x113 mm revolver cannon has been seen at IDEF25.

Other than the effector role, UGVs carrying multiple UAVs or spare missiles are other potential additions to the MUM-T structure of AGMOSS.

Author: Kaan Azman

Editor:Özgür Ekşi