Protector
Unmanned Surface Vehicle
RAFAEL

Protector is a remote-controlled Unmanned
Surface Vehicle (USV) equipped with a stabilized mini-Typhoon weapon
system (MK 49 Mod 0), cameras, radar equipment and electro optics.
Highly autonomous, the Protector can successfully operate with general
guidance from a commander and operator in port, riverine, harbor and
coastal waterways - making it an innovative solution for today's
critical missions, including force protection, anti-terror, and
surveillance and reconnaissance. The Protector was developed by Rafael
in response to emerging terrorist threats against maritime assets, and
is the only operational USV that exists today.
In 2006, BAE Systems and Rafael are teamed for product production and
all other program developments with Lockheed Martin leading the
Protector team for Littoral Combat Ship and Deepwater programs and
Combat System integration efforts. According to Steve Kelly, director of
BAE Systems Naval Systems in Minneapolis, "The Protector has performed
exceptionally well in the Persian Gulf and Mediterranean," said "This
system is ready and available today to meet the needs of our maritime
security and defense forces."
The Protector
will provide Sailors with the capabilities they need to complete their
missions more efficiently. The Protector can be the first line of
defense, checking-out vessels of interest at arm's length, while our
personnel and capital assets are held at a safe distance."
In
August 2006
the Israeli Protector Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) has arrived in the
U.S. , to take part in a series of demonstrations for the U.S. Navy,
Coast Guard and other maritime security agencies. The main advantage of
the system is its flexible configuration ability, accommodating mission
specific modules, while preserving speed, stealth and maneuverability.
RAFAEL, the developer of the Protector is cooperating with BAE Systems,
and Lockheed Martin to pursue business opportunities in North America.
Protector has been demonstrated in service with navies in Asia, Persian
Gulf and the Middle east. The Protector USV was featured at the U.S.
Special Operations Command trade show in Tampa Bay, Fla., in June, and
will be demonstrated in Little Creek, Va, San Diego, and Washington,
D.C. in the coming months.
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