The US Army has indeed been upgrading its Stryker armored vehicles with lethal weapons systems to enhance their combat capabilities. The Stryker is an eight-wheeled armored vehicle that provides infantry troops with mobility, protection, and firepower. Here are some key points about the upgrades:
- 30mm Cannon: One of the notable upgrades is the addition of a 30mm cannon to the Stryker. This cannon, known as the XM813, provides increased firepower and allows the Stryker to engage a wider range of threats, including light armored vehicles and enemy personnel.
- Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs): The upgraded Stryker vehicles are also equipped with anti-tank guided missiles. These missiles, such as the Javelin system, give the Stryker the ability to engage and destroy armored vehicles and fortified positions at longer ranges.
- Improved Fire Control Systems: The Stryker upgrades include improved fire control systems, which enhance accuracy and targeting capabilities. These systems integrate sensors, cameras, and computerized interfaces to provide better situational awareness and effective engagement of targets.
- Active Protection Systems: Some Stryker variants have been fitted with active protection systems (APS), which are designed to detect and neutralize incoming threats such as anti-tank missiles. APS technology improves the survivability of the vehicle and its occupants by providing an additional layer of protection.
- Enhanced Communications and Network Integration: Upgrades also include improvements in communication systems and network integration, enabling better coordination and sharing of information with other vehicles and units on the battlefield.
These upgrades to the Stryker vehicles aim to enhance their lethality, survivability, and operational effectiveness on the modern battlefield. By incorporating advanced weapons systems, improved fire control, and enhanced communication capabilities, the upgraded Stryker vehicles provide increased firepower and situational awareness to the soldiers operating them.
It’s important to note that specific details and configurations of the Stryker upgrades may vary depending on the variant and specific requirements of the US Army.
The Stryker is a family of eight-wheeled armored fighting vehicles derived from the Canadian LAV III. Stryker vehicles are produced by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) for the United States Army. It has four-wheel drive (8×4) and can be switched to all-wheel drive (8×8).
The Stryker was conceived as a family of vehicles forming the backbone of a new medium-weight brigade combat team (BCT) that was to strike a balance between heavy armor and infantry.
The service launched Interim Armored Vehicle competition, and in 2000, the service selected the LAV III proposed by GDLS and General Motors Defense. The service named this family of vehicles the “Stryker”.
US Army upgrades its Strykers with lethal weapons system