(pressebox) (Düsseldorf, 2017-02-19) Rheinmetall’s Remote Controlled Lightweight Missile Mount is making its first public appearance at this year’s IDEX. Made largely of carbon, the RCLM’s size and weight mean that it can be integrated into virtually any military vehicle, and is particularly well suited for mounting a wide range of short-range effectors. For the IDEX demonstration the RCLM is equipped with a double short-range anti-tank missile-launcher and a high-energy laser (HEL) beam-forming unit.

The RCLM can be mounted either on the roof or loading bed of even small vehicles. Its lightweight frame can nevertheless support over 100 kg of equipment, e.g. motors and electronics. In addition, it can carry a payload of up 150 kg, including the missile, launch tube and launcher. Compared to previously available missile launching devices, this represents a reduction in weight of roughly 50%.

Remotely controlled, the RCLM can be aimed very quickly by motors that adjust the azimuth and elevation. In the standard version, the horizontal slewing range is n x 360 degrees; a simpler version has a pivoting range of +/- 170 degrees. It is powered by 24/28V alternating current in accordance with MIL-STD-1275B.

As a standard feature, the RCLM is equipped with Rheinmetall’s SAPHIR, a third-generation FLIR sensor in the 3-5μm or 8-12μm waveband. Also included are a high-resolution CCD camera and an eye-safe laser rangefinder. However, the sensor suite can be individually configured to meet specific customer requirements. Furthermore, radio antennas and an IFF (identification, friend or foe) device can be mounted to the RCLM platform.