US DoD awards new contract for L3Harris VAMPIRE anti-drone systems
L3Harris Technologies has secured a new contract from the U.S. Department of Defense to supply additional Vehicle‑Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment (VAMPIRE) systems, designed to neutralize unmanned aerial threats.
Proven capability
The order builds on initial deployments in 2023 supporting European operations. VAMPIRE combines advanced reconnaissance and precision-strike against drones and remotely piloted aircraft, helping ground forces protect critical infrastructure.
System details
- Integrates L3Harris’ WESCAM MX‑10D RSTA targeting and sensor suite with a weapons station.
- Uses Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System (APKWS) rockets with proximity fuze and Widow mission-management software.
- Portable, palletized kit installable on vehicles with flat cargo beds; self‑contained power eliminates need for vehicle alternator.
Multi‑domain potential
While primarily land-based, VAMPIRE has shown potential for maritime use against UAVs, fast attack craft, and slow-flying threats.
Industry view
Tom Kirkland, L3Harris VP for Targeting and Sensor Systems, stated, “VAMPIRE has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective response to the growing counter‑UAS threat on the global battlefield. We will continue to work closely with the Department of Defense and our allied partners…”.
