Shotscreen RPG Defeat System

The proposed development project delivers an RPG defeat system for U.S. Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicles. The Shotscreen RPG Defeat system is lightweight compared to competing concepts, and incorporates simplistic technology in an effort to provide a rapid fielding potential and high probability of success. The system releases a wave or screen of shot that collides with the fuze of an incoming RPG. The system is non-lethal, reliable, safe, and inexpensive. It does not rely on the input of acutely accurate range data, intricate timing, or time consuming aiming/slewing of a weapon for tracking purposes as with competing concepts. The feasibility of shot-screen based anti-RPG technology was demonstrated during a successful Phase I SBIR project. It was proven that there is a high probability of RPG/shot intercept/collision resulting in premature detonation of the RPG shaped charge. A very capable design, manufacturing, and commercialization team has been assembled to produce a functional Shotscreen RPG Defeat system that can be rapidly fielded. Phase II finalizes the shot and release mechanism design, integrates a COTS sensor/lens, and tests the complete Generation 1 system. Phase II optional periods offer system improvements and additional production units, ready for field trials. BENEFITS: The anti-RPG system is being developed for a specific and urgent need of significantly reducing the damage caused by the RPG to the LAV. This technology will also be applicable to other military ground vehicles and helicopters. MSI's team includes retired senior personnel from helicopter OEM's, and additional commercialization is expected helicopter applications.