Taiwan has unveiled a new anti-drone system, featuring a rocket turret armed with 70-mm rockets and mounted on a wheeled chassis. The result is a system similar to the Vampire air defense system, but with a broader range of munitions.
According to the Military News Agency, the new system is designed for the Taiwanese Coast Guard and is capable of countering both UAVs and maritime drones.
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An electro-optical targeting system mounted on the cabin includes a daytime camera, a thermal imager, and a laser rangefinder. The system can detect targets at ranges of up to 10 km and then carries out the ballistic calculations needed for precise engagement.
The effective interception range is stated as up to eight km, which is quite typical for short-range air defense systems. At the same time, the system boasts a high rate of fire, launching one missile every 1.5 seconds.
The system can also receive information about targets from full-fledged ground-based radars of larger air-defense systems. The system is also capable of firing on the move or remotely when needed. This will help to reduce the danger to the crew.
From Defense Express we would like to note that this is a promising development, which could potentially withstand massive attacks from China. The cost of ammunition remains uncertain, but it is expected to be specialized and still cheaper than conventional anti-aircraft missiles.
It should be noted that Ukraine is actively using Vampire air defense systems with APKWS rockets to shoot down russian Shaheds and other UAVs at a relatively low cost. The U.S. later adopted similar tactics with F-15E fighter jets.
Countries worldwide are seeking cost-effective ways to counter drones as they adapt to emerging threats. Whereas others focus on laser technologies, Taiwan has opted for a proven and practical alternative.
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