L3Harris Technologies is developing a maritime mission for its counter-drone system called the Vampire, which could be mounted on an unmanned surface vessel. The Pentagon awarded L3Harris $40 million to build 14 truck-mounted Vampire sets for Ukraine, each including a targeting sensor and a rocket launcher.
Media outlets reported that Ukrainian forces successfully shot down a Russian drone using the Vampire system, according to Jon Rambeau, the president of L3Harris’ Integrated Mission Systems. The system has been effective against Russian drones troubling Ukrainian forces, prompting discussions on expanding its use.
L3Harris is exploring the possibility of deploying the Vampire system on small unmanned surface vessels in the ocean to enhance shipping and military ship defense. The company is also improving the Vampire system based on user feedback from Ukraine, focusing on training and sensor upgrades.
The company is considering maritime applications of the Vampire system amid ongoing attacks by Houthi forces in Yemen and Russian forces in Ukraine. Both groups are using Iran-made attack drones, making the Vampire system relevant in both regions. Challenging issues, such as vessel stability and exhaust vector management, need to be addressed for the maritime deployment of the system.
