C-OBRA, a new-generation laser warning system developed by PCO S.A., is a direct response to these challenges. The system, presented at this year’s MSPO and entered for the Defender award, is a fully automated soft-kill vehicle self-protection suite. Series production is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Elements of the C-OBRA system
Passive detection and full operational discretion
C-OBRA operates in a completely passive mode — it does not emit its own electromagnetic radiation, does not interfere with onboard sensors and does not reveal the vehicle’s position. By receiving signals emitted by enemy systems, the system ensures the highest possible level of operational discretion.
The modular arrangement of optoelectronic sensor heads provides elevation coverage from -6° to +84°, enabling effective detection of laser beams directed from the upper hemisphere by reconnaissance and strike drones. The system precisely identifies laser sources in the 0.7–1.7 µm and 9–11 µm bands, classifying laser rangefinders, target designators and beam-riding guidance systems.
Control panel and sensors of the C-OBRA system
Automatic response: integration with ZWP-81 launchers
Detection of a laser pulse immediately initiates a defensive procedure. Integration of C-OBRA with electrically controlled modular 81 mm ZWP-81 smoke grenade launchers enables the automatic deployment of a smoke screen in the threatened sector. Selective grenade firing optimise ammunition consumption while preserving the vehicle’s ability to counter multiple threats.
ZWP-81 smoke grenade launcher assemblies and components of the C-OBRA system
The system is equipped with a modern operator control panel with an LCD display, providing full 360° situational awareness. Its open architecture and digital interfaces enable integration with Battlefield Management Systems (BMS) and Command and Control (C2) systems. Information on the position of a hostile emitter can be immediately transmitted to command or used to automatically cue onboard weapons for a counterattack.
Modularity and standardization
C-OBRA’s universal architecture enables installation on a wide range of wheeled and tracked platforms: from Krab self-propelled howitzers and Rosomak armoured personnel carriers, through Waran 4×4 and Heron 6×6 armoured vehicles, to Jelcz truck chassis and Gladius system launchers. Standardisation simplifies crew training, servicing and logistics-chain sustainment. Compliance with NATO standards significantly increases the system’s export potential.
Sensors of the C-OBRA system
Key advantages of the C-OBRA system:
- Full passivity — no emissions of its own signals and complete operational discretion;
- Protection against top-attack threats — a wide elevation range from -6° to +84°, intended to counter threats posed by unmanned systems;
- Dual-band detection — coverage of key laser bands: 0.7–1.7 µm (SWIR) and 9–11 µm (LWIR);
- Rapid soft-kill response — automatic deployment of smoke screens using modular 81 mm ZWP-81 launchers;
- Network-centric architecture — direct exchange of telemetry data with BMS/C2 systems and fire-control modules;
- Scalability — flexible integration on combat vehicles, surface vessels and within logistics support systems.
C-OBRA is Poland’s response to the challenges of an electronics-saturated battlefield. It is a solution designed to detect a threat, assess the adversary’s intentions and neutralise the risk before an enemy projectile reaches its target.
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