The recent Euronaval exhibition in Paris was the backdrop for the launch of the new Sea deFNder Remote Weapon Station (RWS) from FN Herstal.
Engineered for use by naval forces and coastguards, it follows the innovative deFNder Light and the deFNder Medium into global service as the third model in the deFNder range.
The Sea deFNder provides naval ships and coastguards with the advantage of superior firepower in any scenario. This includes territorial waters surveillance, self-defense, anti-piracy, anti-terrorism and the interception of drug or people smugglers. Its high modularity allows the Sea deFNder to be mounted on a wide variety of naval vessels, from speed boats and patrollers right up to frigates and destroyers.
The Sea deFNder RWS’ versatility extends to the weapons it can house. Its universal cradle can hold any machine gun from FN MINIMI 5.56 up to .50 cal in the range (.50 cal is either the FN M2HB-QCB or FN Herstal’s exclusive FN M3R that offers an outstanding firing rate of 1,100 RPM). The Sea deFNder can also be equipped with 40 mm AGLs for additional firepower.
The Sea deFNder shares many features of the deFNder Medium used on land based vehicles. This includes its sight module (CCD + IR uncooled or cooled), one-hand or game pad control handle and ammo box capacity. In addition, the Sea deFNder has special specifications for naval applications:
• Specific surface treatment
• Improved water tightness and water flow
• Specific environmental qualification based on maritime standards
• Specific 2-axis gyroscopic stabilization dedicated to naval application
Prior to its official unveiling, an order has already been placed for a number of Sea deFNder Remote Weapon Stations. This brings the total number of units ordered across the deFNder range to more than 1,300 for both land and sea based applications.
The Sea deFNder service package includes associated weapon(s), ammunition, technical documentation, technical support, operator and maintenance training, and installation of the RWS onto the vessel.
For more information, please visit FNherstal.com.
