Stabilized Remotely operated Weapon Station (SRWS/CROWS)
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Recon Optical Inc. |
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The sensor package was also improved with the introduction of an integrated InSb 320x256 FPA and a CCD camera with x27 zoom lens offering 26.5 – 1.3 FOV. Other functions include video stabilization, lead compensation, automated sector scan function and optional video tracking. The system can be programmed with up to 200 target reference points. SRWS provides continuous traverse of 360 deg., completing a full traverse in four seconds. The gun can elevate from +60 to -20 at a pointing accuracy of +/- 0.3 mil and under-fire stability of 2 mils.
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Stabilized Remotely operated Weapon Station (SRWS) or Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) as it is designated by the military is in production for the US Army. Over 50 sets are already operating in Iraq, out of 300 ordered for use with special forces, military police, infantry and transportation units. 
SRWS mounts various weapons from 5.56 machine guns up to the M230LF 30mm automatic cannon and the Mk-19 40mm grenade launchers. The system weighs 112 kg, and uses a multi-sensor day/night electro-optical payload for target acquisition and aiming. In the newly modified version, SRWS was redesigned with a lower profile, lower height and reduced frontal signature. It also uses appliqué ballistic protection and less exposed cabling for improved survivability.
alt="The Lightning SRWS mounting the M240 light machine gun" align="left" border="0" height="131" hspace="2" vspace="2" width="200">ROI is teaming with Fire Control Systems (FCS) and EOS Technologies (EOST) of Tucson, Arizona, subsidiaries of Electro Optic Systems, Limited (EOS) of Australia, who provide the critical fire control and sensor components for CROWS. At DSEi 05 the company unveiled its latest design, the compact SRWS – Lightning, mounting the M240 7.62 machine gun. The new weapon station weighs 68 kg including M240 and 200 rounds of ammunition). The station performs similar to the SRWS, offers remote charge capability from under the armor and manual override mode. A small batch of SRWS – Lightning has been supplied to the US Army.