MUSS (countermeasure)

MUltifunctional Self protection System (MUSS, German: Multifunktionales Selbstschutz-System) is a softkill active protection system developed to protect military vehicles against guided anti-tank missiles.[1]

Contents

History

MUSS was developed by EADS, Buck (a Rheinmetall subsidiary) and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). Before September 2003, it was tested on a Leopard 2 tank by the German Bundesamt für Wehrtechnik und Beschaffung.[1]

The new German Puma infantry fighting vehicle will be equipped with MUSS, after EADS was awarded a contract in 2006.[2]

Design

MUSS consists of three main elements: the sensors, consisting of laser warner and a missle warner using ultraviolet sensors, the computer, and the electronic or pyrotechnic countermeasures.[2] When the sensors detect an incoming missile or a laser beam aimed at the vehicle, the computer activates the countermeasures. MUSS offers 360° protection with elevation up to 70° and can handle up to four threats at once.[2]

The whole system has a weight of 65 to 160 kg.[3]

References

  1. ^ a b EADS.com press release "EADS-Technologie schützt Panzerfahrzeuge Neues System für Selbstschutz vorgestellt" (German)
  2. ^ a b c Army-technology.com "Puma"
  3. ^ Defense-Update: "Multifunction Self Protection System"

External links

Defense-Update.com "Multifunction Self Protection System"

Softkill systems

AN/VLQ-6 MCD • MUSS • Shtora
Hardkill systems

AMAP-ADS • Arena • Drozd • Iron Curtain • Iron Fist • LEDS-150 • Quick Kill • Trophy • Zaslon