Designed for SOF, Suitable for Naval Special Warfare

General Robotics has introduced a new version of its remote-controlled weapons station (RCWS) optimised for naval applications, the company announced during Euronaval 2022 on 18 October.

The new Shark naval RCWS addresses the need for special operations forces to operate their weapons on fast and agile small boats, on which the constantly moving platform degrades fire accuracy with conventional weapon mounts, requiring operators to get dangerously close to the enemy to deliver the desired effects. Crews on larger boats often operate stabilised weapons stations to improve fire accuracy, but these systems are often too large and heavy for RHIBs. To meet this challenge, the unique Shark RCWS is aimed specifically at naval applications, from special operations to law enforcement, including interception, coastal security, counter-terror, and anti-piracy activities.

Addressing the most demanding needs of naval special warfare (NSW), Shark was designed and tested with users and experts from the international NSW community. It fits on small manned and unmanned naval vessels, NSW boats and raiding craft, to deliver versatile and accurate firepower. At a net weight of 85kg (without weapons or ammunition), Shark is much lighter and smaller than other Naval RCWS, is a rugged, robust, seaworthy system, versatile enough to operate remotely on a cluttered deck, scoring direct hits at a sea state up to 3, when platform and targets constantly move.

“We designed SHARK to meet the specific requirements of naval commandos and SEALS,” commented CEO Shahar Gal. The solution is based on the company’s combat-proven Pitbull, he added. “We developed the Shark prototype as a robust yet lightweight system offering seamless remote operation by a single operator, with some special adaptations for naval use and NSW concepts of operations”. He went on to point out the prototype was further matured and refined based on feedback from customers and partners following extensive field trials.

“At the bottom line, the reduced weight and size derive significant benefits,” said Gal. “It means Shark can be mounted on smaller boats and handle the recoil loads with less weight and energy. As a result, Shark consumes less power and delivers higher accelerations, resulting in better accuracy and agility. It can be used as a stand-alone system, with its sensors, or integrated with other sensors onboard. In this way, we offer tailor-made combat solutions to meet the unique requirements of our customers.”