The project addresses the growing importance of autonomous technologies on the modern battlefield, including robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced communications and data-processing systems. CUGS envisages the development of integrated unmanned platforms capable of performing reconnaissance, logistics, and combat missions.
A key premise of the program is a modular approach to system architecture, in which various unmanned platforms are integrated with standard functional modules covering navigation, command and control systems (C2/C3), communications, and sensor and effector management. Ensuring the interoperability of solutions from different manufacturers and enabling them to operate together in a single operational environment remains a major challenge.
The project is being carried out by a consortium of 29 entities from eight EU countries and Norway, coordinated by the Italian group Leonardo. It includes multi-environment demonstration trials in conditions ranging from Arctic to Mediterranean, aimed at verifying the operational capabilities of the systems developed.
As part of the CUGS project, Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów integrated the THeMIS unmanned tracked platform with the ZSMU A3C Remote Weapon Station, marking an important step in the development of modern remotely operated weapon systems that enhance the operational capabilities of the contemporary battlefield. The THeMIS platform is manufactured by Estonian company Milrem Robotics, which is also part of the consortium implementing the CUGS project, underscoring the international nature of the undertaking and industrial cooperation in the field of defense technologies. The integration covered mechanical, electronic, and system-level aspects, enabling full cooperation between the two solutions.
The ZSMU A3C Remote Weapon Station produced by ZM Tarnów features full azimuth coverage and an elevation range from -5° to +50°. It is also fitted with an observation and targeting system comprising a day camera, a thermal imaging camera, and a laser rangefinder with a range of up to 5 km. It enables effective engagement of ground and low-flying targets at distances of up to 1,500 m, both by day and by night, using 7.62 mm armament with a rate of fire of 700 rounds per minute, as well as advanced ballistic algorithms and tracking systems. During field tests, particular emphasis was placed on the ability to fully remotely control both the platform and the weapon station, significantly increasing operator safety and flexibility of use on the battlefield.
After the integration work was completed, a series of functional and field tests was carried out in Gliwice to verify the operational capabilities of the armed vehicle in realistic tactical scenarios and to confirm the proper operation of the entire integrated system.
The tests covered a wide range of operational issues, including live-fire exercises, firing on the move, and movement in difficult terrain, including forested and unpaved environments. The trials also verified the weapon system’s stabilization, targeting systems, communications, and the platform’s operational capabilities in various conditions. Another important element was testing the system’s ability to detect and track unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), an increasingly important aspect of modern battlefield systems.
The trials confirmed the proper operation of the integrated solution in terms of stabilization and firing, as well as mobility and the performance of the observation and tracking systems. The test results clearly showed that the THeMIS platform integrated with the ZSMU A3C module meets its operational assumptions and can effectively perform tasks in a demanding tactical environment.
Photos: Aneta Gawle, Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów
The completed integration and positive test results confirm Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów’s strong expertise in designing and implementing modern weapon systems. They also open up new opportunities for using the ZSMU A3C in combination with unmanned ground platforms during future stages of the CUGS project.
The THeMIS platform fitted with the ZSMU A3C module will take part in the project’s final demonstration in Italy, where it will be presented in a modified configuration using functional modules developed under CUGS.
Sponsored content: Zakłady Mechaniczne “Tarnów” S.A.