Konsberg Remotely Operated Weapons System For U.S Navy

The U.S Navy has announced it is ordering marinized version of the M153 Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) from Kongsberg Protech Systems to fulfill requirements for its remotely operated Stabilized Small Arm Mount (SSAM) weapon systems program. 

By optimizing the CROWS for naval operations, the Navy is selecting a combat-proven system that has been delivered on-time and on-budget since 2007 by KONGSBERG’s state-of-the-art facility in Johnstown, Pa. 

The marinized CROWS will keep sailors protected from hostile fire while enhancing overall ship protection and providing unique operational capabilities including enhanced target interrogation and the ability to counter asymmetric threats. The CROWS will allow sailors to operate the array of sensors and weaponry from safely inside a vessel, instead of from unprotected, open positions. 

“The marinized version of the Protector M153 CROWS is a platform that takes all of the lessons from years of combat service in Iraq and Afghanistan with the land forces and brings them to the U.S. Navy.

The system increases engagement effectiveness and offers unmatched deployment flexibility across platforms and in any environment,” said Rune Johannessen, Vice President of Business Development, North America for Kongsberg Protech Systems. 

From harbor protection to littoral missions and into the open water, the naval optimized CROWS offers the same proven precision capabilities as those currently deployed around the world. The standard sensor package includes a daylight color camera, a thermal night camera (IR) and a laser range finder allowing all-weather, day and night operations.

The target tracking and comprehensive fire control provide first-burst on target capabilities while limiting collateral damage. These enhancements allow troops and commanders to operate with greater confidence and effectiveness.