In addition to the new X-wing VTOL military drone, BAE Systems unveiled a new “Razer” system designed to convert standard unguided munitions into low-cost precision-guided missiles.
The current conflict in Ukraine has taught military strategists many lessons. For one, according to the Australian Institute for Strategic Policy, modern conflicts burn up munitions at an alarming rate. Victory could be determined by whose supply line can sustain a supply of pain and misery the longest.
For an isolated island nation like Australia, this is a serious problem. From 2021 onwards, the development of a ‘sovereign ammunition’, a guided weapon that can be designed, developed and manufactured entirely in Australia without reliance on overseas supply chains, is being pushed forward. All the better if they’re deployed in large numbers and cheap enough to shoot them without worrying about breaking the bank.
BAE Systems Australia
At today’s Avalon Air Show, BAE Systems announced its entry into this space. The Razer is effectively a low-cost upgrade kit for “dumb” missiles, turning 40-50 kg (88-110 lb) unguided weapons into precision air-launched weapons. Therefore, a wing kit and tail unit with control surfaces, a powered GPS/INS guidance system, and a navigation system have been added. Razer is designed as a system that can be mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles, such as the Strix X Wingtailsitter and manned helicopters, to provide long-range strike and standoff capabilities.
“RAZER is well positioned to meet the urgent domestic and international demand for low-cost sovereign munitions solutions that can be deployed from the air,” said Ben Hudson, CEO of BAE Systems Australia, in a press release. “
Source: BAE Systems Australia
