L3Harris expands the VAMPIRE family with anti-drone systems for land, sea, and air

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L3Harris expands VAMPIRE family with counter-drone systems for land, sea, and air

L3Harris expands VAMPIRE family with counter-drone systems for land, sea, and air (X @L3HarrisTech)

L3Harris has officially unveiled a new and expanded family of VAMPIRE counter-drone systems, including land, naval, air, and electronic warfare versions.

The system, originally developed in 2022 to meet an urgent counter-drone defense request in Ukraine, uses 70mm laser-guided rockets (APKWS II) and Wescam MX sensors to detect and neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles. Since then, it has been tested and improved to support different platforms and combat scenarios.

The new line includes versions mounted on light vehicles, containers, fixed towers, and even unmanned vessels. Highlighted models include the VAMPIRE Stalker XR, with 12 rockets per launcher, and the VAMPIRE CASKET, installed in containers for base defense. There is also the VAMPIRE BAT, combining automatic weapons and electronic jamming systems, and the VAMPIRE Dead Wing, integrated with the AH-64 Apache helicopter.

L3Harris also revealed plans for a naval version of the system, intended to protect ships against attack drones and cruise missiles, allowing engagement of low-cost targets without relying on expensive missiles like the ESSM.

Advances include the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to extend detection range and reduce response time, as well as the integration of non-kinetic weapons such as high-power microwaves and signal jammers. The company has also acquired a new factory in Huntsville, Alabama, USA, capable of producing 20 to 40 systems per month to meet the growing global demand for counter-drone defense technologies.

VAMPIRE has already proven its effectiveness in combat, with reports of hundreds of drones neutralized by Ukrainian forces. L3Harris now aims to expand the system’s use across different forces and countries, offering modular and cost-effective solutions against the increasing drone threat in multiple scenarios, from the battlefield to open sea operations.

Source: Naval News / The War Zone | Photo: X @L3HarrisTech | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team

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