Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) were a pivotal event for the defense industry. Remote weapon systems allow defense personnel to remotely control firing weapons and use them for all air, land, and water-based combat. Also known as a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS), these weapons are built with extreme precautions for attacks and recon.
Remote weapons stations are installed with the latest technological and mechanical gear to make them operable in all locations. Automated systems can be controlled remotely and set as autonomous to search and engage. Turrets, Israel’s Iron Dome, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are some examples of autonomous systems. But why are such systems on the rise? Let’s see the benefits of using autonomous and remote systems for defensive purposes.
Benefits of Using Automated Defense Mechanisms In the Modern Age
- Risk Reduction
The vehicles and drones can access dangerous areas such as disaster response, nuclear facilities, or mine clearance where human safety would be at risk. Moreover, they can also engage in fights if necessary. In addition, drones can perform reconnaissance and surveillance of an area before sending troops in. This reduces the risk to human lives.
- Efficiency and Precision
Remote weapon stations can perform for long hours without getting tired, thus improving the efficiency of the task. Moreover, these weapons are installed with the latest sensors, equipment, and software, which makes the data collected even more reliable than a tired troop. This advanced precision technology is now also used in surgeries.
- Quick Response
Automated systems are designed to process information much faster than humans, which comes in handy when making decisions during a military task. These designs come especially handy when dealing with fighter jets, military helicopters, and incoming missiles. By the time a human decides and reaches the sentry gun, the automated turret might have already finished the enemy.
- Data Collection and Consistency
Automated systems can collect and transport a lot of data, too, with digital proof. The data they collect is saved in memory and used as directed by the owner. In addition, since all the data is recorded, the chance of error is quite low, making them very consistent in what they do.
Bottom Line
Automated systems will be the backbone of the military industry in the coming years. And AI software would be the probable leader in keeping a country secure. The two main reasons for using remote weapon systems are that they reduce the risk on troops, and is much better at performance. However, we can never forget how vital human brains are to keep running these systems and maintaining the balance to keep things in control.
Both countries and private organizations develop automated systems for use and sale. This is why the automated and remote weapons system market is estimated to have a CAGR of nearly 13% till 2033. The Kongsberg Protector, Rafael Samson, Raytheon Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS), and FNSS Saber-25 are some of the best remote systems in the world.
