New Approach to Sighting: Mine with "Eyes" and Satellite Navigation Developed in Russia

A munition with a video camera will replace reconnaissance drones for artillery fire

The Black Sea Higher Naval Order of the Red Star School (ChVVMO) named after P.S. Nakhimov has developed and patented an artillery sighting mine with a video camera and a navigation module. The development allows for fire correction without the use of external drones and additional reconnaissance means.

Specialists from the military educational institution proposed modernizing the artillery illuminating mine. Instead of using traditional luminous material, they suggest installing a compact video camera unit equipped with GPS and GLONASS systems. When the mine reaches a predetermined altitude after launch, it deploys and stabilizes with a parachute, then transmits video footage of the impact site along with coordinates.

The operator observes the smoke shell's burst area, records deviations, and determines the impact coordinates. This data is then transmitted to the command and observation post for adjusting subsequent shots.

In essence, this is a munition that, after detonation, transforms into an autonomous observation module, allowing for the recording of shell bursts and prompt adjustment of aiming without the use of external drones and complex observation infrastructure.

The authors emphasize reducing the vulnerability and cost of the reconnaissance circuit. Unlike quadcopters, which require time to approach and can be affected by electronic warfare systems, the new system operates autonomously – directly in the firing zone.

Earlier, "Pervy Tekhnichesky" reported that scientists from the Joint Stock Company "Central Research Institute "Burevestnik"" developed and patented a new platform for transporting a 120-mm mortar. The design is intended to accelerate the crew's preparation for combat missions.

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