Defense contractor Artis is unveiling an active protection system called Sentinel to defend against attacks from above. The APS system can protect vehicles and infrastructure from various direct-fire threats. The Army evaluated Artis’ Iron Curtain system years ago and has launched efforts to field interim solutions, but they were not successful.
Artis issued a demonstration of the Sentinel’s capabilities in June 2023. The system handles top-attack threats and has gained significant traction through a contract with the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office.
The Army’s current interest in active protection systems remains unclear. Various systems have been evaluated and tested, but the Army has not moved forward on any program to outfit vehicles with protection. Artis is actively demonstrating Sentinel’s capabilities and has international interest, especially in the Middle East.
While interest in the Sentinel system grows, the Army remains cautious in acquiring new APS technology. Major General Glenn Dean has stated the need for an APS that provides wide-ranging protection against multiple threats, but no specific plans have been disclosed.
