NATO has recently awarded a contract to ISTEC Services Limited for the provision of smoke discharger systems for the British Army’s new M270 A2 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS). This development is poised to enhance the operational effectiveness of the MLRS fleet by enabling it to swiftly obscure its positions from enemy surveillance, particularly those employing visual and infrared detection technologies. The implementation of these discharger systems will be a crucial tactical advantage, mitigating risks associated with both line-of-sight threats and advanced guidance systems.
According to the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), the introduction of these smoke systems is foundational during battlefield maneuvers, as they will allow for safer repositioning of MLRS vehicles across active combat scenarios. Greg Sherwood, the MLRS Senior Operations Manager for UK Defence, Equipment and Support, emphasized the importance of this contract, stating, “This contract signifies another step forward in providing our troops with the equipment they need to maintain the battle-winning edge.” He noted that these defensive systems will complement the cutting-edge technology already embedded in the MLRS platform.
ISTEC Operations Manager Adrian Webster expressed enthusiasm for the contract, citing the company’s extensive experience in creating tailored solutions for military hardware. He highlighted their strong history with both NSPA and the MLRS platform, viewing this opportunity as a pivotal moment in enhancing the operational capability of the British Army.
This contract comes on the heels of ISTEC’s previous success in supplying 65 weapon mounts for the MLRS A2 systems last September. This initiative is part of a broader strategy from the UK Ministry of Defence to amplify its ground-based firepower capabilities, aiming to sustain these systems well into the 2050s. Launched in 2022, the modernization program strives to procure advanced versions of the MLRS, upgrade existing units, reintegrate those held in reserve, and even obtain second-hand models from museums.
By May 2024, British defense officials announced significant investments aimed at modernizing up to 85 MLRS systems by the year 2030. In a related initiative, a Newcastle-based industry partner has also received a contract to develop a tactical simulator for the MLRS, which is intended to enhance the rocket launch proficiency of the British Army.
The advancements in technology and capabilities underscore NATO’s ongoing commitment to bolster the defense capabilities of its member nations, particularly in the face of evolving threats on the battlefield.
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