TheProtectorunmanned surface vehicle (USV) was developed by the IsraeliRafael Advanced Defense Systems in response to emergingterrorist threats against maritime assets such as theUSSCole bombing, and is the first operational combat USV in service. It is fitted with aMini Typhoon Weapon Station. In 2005, it was deployed by theSingapore Navy to support coalition forces in thePersian Gulf, and was later deployed for anti-piracy duties in theGulf of Aden.[1] In 2012, Rafael announced that they were building a larger (11 metre) version of the Protector, that would have a greater range, and be equipped with a wider range of weaponry.[2]
Based on a 9-metre (30-foot)rigid-hulled inflatable boat, the Protector is stealthy, fast and highly maneuverable. The vessel's low profile upper structure is sealed and aerodynamic, and itsmodular platform design allows it to be reconfigured to meet changing mission requirements, such asforce protection, anti-terror, surveillance and reconnaissance, mine and electronic warfare.[3] The hull is a deep V-shaped planing hull, with the inflatable section providing stability and endurance.[4] A single diesel engine drives water jets, allowing speeds of 50knots (92.6 km/h; 57.5 mph).[5]
The Protector offers enhancedsurveillance, identification and interception capabilities. It is equipped with aMini-Typhoon stabilized weapon system, a TOPLITEelectro-optic surveillance and targeting system with day and night targeting capabilities through the use offorward looking infrared,charge-coupled devices andlaser rangefinders, as well as apublic address system.[6]
The Protector is remotely controlled and can be operated with guidance from a commander and operator located ashore or aboard a manned vessel.[7] This allows it to provide the first line of defense, inspecting vessels of interest while personnel and capital assets are held at a safe distance.[citation needed]
The Protector was deployed by theRepublic of Singapore Navy together with itsEndurance class landing platform dock ships to theNorth Persian Gulf forpeacekeeping operations in 2005, where it performed surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as force protection duties for more than eight hours at a time.[8]
In 2006,BAE Systems,Lockheed Martin and Rafael demonstrated the Protector's force protection capabilities to theUnited States Navy,United States Coast Guard and other maritime security agencies at theUnited States Special Operations Command trade show inTampa Bay,Florida, as part of thelittoral combat ship andIntegrated Deepwater System Program programs.[9]
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1 Joint venture withIAI.2 Joint venture withDSTA.3 Joint venture withRaytheon.4 Joint venture withHatehof.5 Joint venture withNorthrop Grumman. | ||
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