Identifying direction & elevation of enemy fire

Metravib’s PEARL miniaturised acoustic gunshot detection has been demonstrated on board Beretta’s ARX-160 at the Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar (SOFINS) in France.

Integrated but offset from the top rail adaptor system of the 5.56x45mm assault rifle (also allowing for the operation of a holographic weapon sight) the PEARL weapon-mounted acoustic gunshot detector provides special operations forces and dismounted close combat forces with an organic solution capable of identifying the direction and elevation of sniper threats and engaging enemy forces.

According to Metravib, PEARL provides the capability for the end user to identify enemy firers within a ‘few seconds’, allowing them to take cover and return fire as quickly as possible.

Designed to support quick decision and response processes, PEARL indicates target position with Azimuth and Elevation thanks to direction LEDs, providing end users with a location accuracy within 7.5-degrees. Capable of supporting operations in high angle urban and mountain environments, PEARL can identify the muzzle blast of engaging enemy firers as well as shock waves associated with incoming small rounds ammunition.

Metravib confirmed to MONCh how the acoustic gunshot detection system requires no calibration ahead of a mission. The unit is also cableless, relying instead upon an embedded processing unit. PEARL is MIL-STD compliant.

Andrew White