SIG's XRAY9-CUAS optic calculates shots on moving drones

SIG Sauer has unveiled the XRAY9-CUAS, an electro-optic for counter-drone weapons that measures a drone's distance, speed and direction and builds an aiming solution on the fly. SIG showed it at the Association of the United States Army trade show.

The short version

SIG says it fast-tracked the XRAY9-CUAS because the capability is needed on today's battlefield. Mounted on a counter-drone weapon system, it borrows targeting technology from SIG's remote-controlled weapon station. A proprietary short-wave infrared laser rangefinder and onboard slew-rate sensors calculate the drone's distance, speed and vector, then generate a "disturbed reticle" that shows the shooter where to aim.

The optic can be integrated with CMOS and thermal sensors for day, night and fused imaging. Andy York, president of SIG Sauer Electro-Optics, says a soldier can point and shoot while the optic compensates for the factors that make hitting a drone hard.

Key points

• Range: Tracks and engages out to 300 yards, depending on drone size.
• Sensors: SWIR laser rangefinder plus slew-rate sensors for speed and direction.
• Imaging: Can integrate CMOS and thermal sensors for day, night and fused use.
• Size and weight: 5.25 x 2.5 x 3.3 inches and 24 ounces.
• Display and power: 640x480 display with a 48mm clear aperture, and up to 50 hours of continuous battery life.

Bottom line

This is a military product for mounted counter-drone weapons, not a civilian optic. It shows how quickly fire-control technology is being adapted to small drones, and SIG says it built this one with urgency.

Source: Soldier Systems Daily.