This is a really slick system. Adding the APKWS to the quiver of C-UAS weapons options is a very smart move. As we know, we must have a robust mix of all sorts or kinetic and non-kinetic systems in our layered defenses designs for bases and for maneuver elements.
Just prior to my current position with FlexForce starting 22 March 2024, I was the EUCOM C-UAS MTT Lead for IFRCO. I was in EUCOM from June 22-June 23, then Nov 23-March 1st of this year. We had a great Red Team lead by Mr. Scott Hamels, who is a great guy to work with. Our small team of less than ten people trained well over 7000 soldiers during my time there, and my co-worker Austin Cable trained an additional 4000 during his tenure. I was very fortunate to have me leadership take the lease off me so we could really conduct some very dynamic training for the warfighters.
We trained units in everything from C-UAS basics to conducting multi day base wide holistic C-UAS Battle drill and System validation exercises. We trained/supported mass casualty drills, FTX, Lane, STX, day and night ISR. We worked with Mech and light Infantry, FA, Scouts, HIMARS, Armor, ADA, Medical, MP etc. We customized the training to best suit the Commanders intent, mission and MOS specific C-UAS integration training.
We always learned a lot as we know there are very few real-world doctrinal guidelines thus far. But what I have learned training warfighters all over the world in C-UAS is that there are C-UAS fundamentals that cross over. I've trained C-UAS in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Guam and the C-UAS fundamentals always are generally the same. I'll write more about them another time.
We often have challenges how to defeat Group 3 Drones due to limited options available. Coyotes are a great asset, but they are limited, and they too, like all systems have shortcomings. Coordinating with host nations to incorporate their SAMs is complicated and takes lots of time to build trust and good rapport.
If a base had SHORAD units I always worked with leadership to encourage them to incorporated Avenger/M-SHORAD into their Layered defense base defense design. The FIM 92 STINGER is a very viable Group 3 defense weapon. And SHORAD units are a natural fit to have in the C-UAS arena.
The APKWS is a really great weapon that I am seeing added to many configurations, and as a C-UAS trainer I welcome this great technology to the fight.
MSI Defense Solutions’ Patrick Anderson and Dan Feemster will be onsite at the Association of the United States Army - AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exposition!?We are excited to partner with ARA to showcase their platform equipped with EAGLS?!
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