AUSA 2012: Kongsberg CROWS for the US Army

With the coming drawdown of forces in Afghanistan and the ever increasing IED threats around the world, it is more important than ever to ensure that soldiers are provided with the equipment that both increases survivability and maximises combat effectiveness.

(All Photos: Kongsberg)

As the US Army programme of record for the Common Remotely Operated Weapons Stations (CROWS), Kongsberg and its PROTECTOR M153 are a prime example of successful deployment of new technologies that accomplish these aims. CROWS is a platform agnostic system that allows operators to operate the full array of sensors and weaponry from inside the safety of a vehicles armor protection. Kongsberg was recently awarded the CROWS III contract in recognition of the successful technology they have been fielding for the US Army since 2007.

Of particular interest, this year Kongsberg is unveiling a new modular capability for their CROWS system, a Containerized Weapon Station (CWS). This option offers a number of new deployments for CROWS systems in connection with integrated base defense in any kind of scenario.

• Removing operators from guard towers the CWS provides enhanced force protection from direct and indirect fire 
• CWS facilitates single-soldier control, full-operation, and 360 precision engagement from a protected position
• Commonality of the platform (container) on bases and outposts makes identification (and targeting) by enemy personnel difficult 
• Highly mobile system (internally within a location or from site-to-site) enables system deployment by vehicle assets integral to the Force Protection team
• Elevated M153 PROTECTOR provides superior target acquisition day or night through wide array of sensors and cameras, allowing enhanced  identification and interrogation of potential threats at extended ranges 

With increased unrest and uncertainty around the world, CWS really offers new options for maximising on the ground personnel and providing layers of security not otherwise available. Additionally, there is a benefit CROWS provides that is not easily quantified but is vital in modern warfare; allowing troops and commanders to operate with greater confidence and effectiveness.