Thanks to a new item in the US weapons package, Ukrainian forces will soon be able to turn regular pickup trucks and other vehicles into mobile rocket launchers.
The VAMPIRE kit from L3Harris is included in the US aid package for Ukraine. Among other systems, the package includes air defense support.
The VAMPIRE kit includes a "suitcase-type," laser-guided weapons system that can be loaded into the cargo bed of a truck and set up by a two person crew. The weapon can be used to hit both ground and air targets.
Colin Kahl, undersecretary of defense for policy, said at a press briefing that the system is likely to serve as a counter to drones in Ukraine.
A counter-UAS system is what the VAMPIRE system is. Small missiles are used to shoot out of the sky.
The kit's use of an Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System will add a highly mobile, quickly deployable option to the front lines.
A senior fellow and director of the defense program at the Center for a New American Security told Insider that it is a significant capability.
The US has provided Stinger missiles that can be fired by a single person on the ground, but that supply has been short.
The VAMPIRE system can be upgraded. The ability to mount the weapon on a vehicle gives operators the ability to cover a larger area faster than troops on the ground.
Since invading its neighbor in February, Russia has used drones for a wide range of purposes. Western countries have been accused of supplying technology to the Orlan 10 drones recovered from Russian territory.
The type of systems that are modular and can be installed on all types of vehicles should improve the survivability of Ukrainian forces.
Tell us about a news story. C Davis is the reporter for Insider.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
