Lockheed Martin MAPS-enabled systems test lauded

Lockheed Martin and industry partners are touting the results of a recent Army Modular Active Protection Systems (MAPS)-enabled systems test demonstrating the effectiveness of the active protection system.

The effort supported the Army’s integration of three countermeasures and a cueing sensor into the MAPS framework for a six-week rodeo conducted at Redstone Arsenal, Ala. In a series of live-fire tests, the MAPS-enabled systems defeated 15 out of 15 anti-tank guided missiles by jamming their signals, causing them to fly off target.

Lockheed Martin was awarded the initial MAPS prototype controller contract in 2014 and continues to manufacture and deliver base kits to MAPS stakeholders, adding the base kit supports the rapid integration of MAPS framework-compliant sensors and countermeasures to detect and defeat threats targeting MAPS-equipped vehicles.

The kits are comprised of a controller, user interface, power management distribution system, network switch, and application software. The initiative is designed to protect current combat vehicles, as well as support future vehicle protection system capabilities.

“The success of the Army’s testing shows the effectiveness of an active protection system that can rapidly refresh with new components to meet specific mission and platform requirements,” Michael Williamson, Lockheed Martin’s vice president of Sensors & Global Sustainment, said.