Image source: topwar.ru
The Norwegian company Kongsberg has signed a contract worth $22.4 million for the supply of 16 remotely controlled Protector RT20 turrets for the new ARV ("advanced reconnaissance vehicle") 8x8 armored vehicle of the United States Marine Corps, replacing the obsolete LAV-25 8x8, which have been in service since 1983.
The Protector RT20 is positioned as a new generation tower. This is a lightweight and optimized version of the RT (Remote Turret) series, specially modified to meet the requirements of the US Marine Corps. The remotely controlled combat module houses a 30 mm XM813 automatic cannon from Northrop Grumman (and a paired 7.62mm machine gun), which is a modified version of the Bushmaster cannon capable of using programmable ammunition.
Image source: topwar.ru
Ammunition of 150-200 rounds has a two-tape power supply, allowing you to instantly switch between armor-piercing and high-explosive fragmentation ammunition. The aiming angles are -10° to +45°.
The turret is designed to provide effective power, as its main role on the ARV vehicle is to be the "fist" of the ARV front–line scout. It is equipped with a digital MSA with automatic target tracking, a sighting system (high-resolution day camera, latest generation thermal imager), a laser rangefinder with a range of up to 10 km, and a panoramic view.
Image source: topwar.ru
The turret is capable of withstanding armor-piercing bullets from a 7.62 x 39 mm cartridge and can be reinforced with mounted armor. There are 4-8 smoke PU.
One of the main differences between the RT20 and the older RT40 model (which is based on Stryker) is its low weight. This allows the ARV reconnaissance vehicle to maintain buoyancy and the possibility of free transportation by aircraft. At the same time, it has a powerful 30 mm caliber for this type of equipment, which is capable of piercing the body of almost any modern infantry fighting vehicle.
