The Ukrainian company FRDM Group presented an updated version of the ground robotic complex D-21 with a combat module D-18 equipped with five guides for 70 mm missiles and a laser pointing.
The main goal of the company was to increase the range of hitting targets with the help of the existing NRK D-21 weapons. The missile system is capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 10 km, and taking into account the control of the robot at a distance of 5 km, the range of the installation extends to 15 km from the position.
“When developing this system, we sought to replace large rocket launchers on the battlefield. In our realities, the firing range of such systems is about 15 km, so we cover this distance in our product. It is much cheaper, more mobile, and launches missiles at remote positions,” said a representative of the FRDM Group with the call sign “Sukhar”.
The load of the robotic platform is 200 kg on soft and 300 kg on hard soils, which allows you to install a module of five Hydra 70 missiles on it. The developer also provided for the integration of more guides for the chassis with increased load capacity.
The FRDM Group team notes that the mobile MLRS has several application options. It can hit targets in the immediate vicinity or fire at full range from cover under trees or bushes, which significantly reduces the visibility of the installation compared to large systems.
Before leaving for the combat position, the operators determine the point of firing and the reference point for targeting the installation. To protect the cameras of the control unit of the combat module from dust and rocket fuel combustion products, they are covered by a curtain that opens after placing the robot in the firing position.
The work of the MLRS involves the use of not only unguided 70-mm missiles, but also laser-guided missiles. In parallel, the FRDM Group team integrated a laser targeting system on the R-34 drone, which can provide targeting to the robotic installation.
“Our infantry currently does not have enough tools for laser guidance. However, we have drones that can carry a payload and perform this function. Our codified solution already finds and scouts the target by creating a laser beam with coordinates to guide the robot on the ground. Next, the system performs the launch, and the missile is brought to the target by laser, – explains the principle of operation of the complex, a representative of the FRDM Group.
The fire system is laid with a great potential for modernization aimed at fighting air targets. In the future, the D-18 module based on the D-21 robot will be able to search for and direct missiles at strike and reconnaissance drones operating on the front line.
