Israel

IAI's ELI-3312 Huntereye: A compact sensor system designed to detect and track aerial threats, enhancing tank defense against drone-delivered warheads.

In response to the growing threat posed by multi-rotor drones dropping warheads on tanks, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has introduced a practical solution to bolster tank defenses. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) interim measure, known as "Cope Cage," utilizes metal nets to intercept anti-tank charges aimed at the Merkava 4 main battle tanks (MBT). While effective to a certain extent, this stopgap solution has prompted the exploration of more advanced defense mechanisms.

IAI's electronic division, Elta, has stepped forward with a tailored response: the ELI-3312 Huntereye system. This solution is specifically engineered to enhance the protection of tanks against aerial threats, offering a comprehensive suite of capabilities for target acquisition and situational awareness.

The ELI-3312 Huntereye system operates on a family of compact target acquisition sensors, designed to be seamlessly integrated onto various platforms, ranging from light to heavy Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) and MBTs. At the core of its functionality lies the fusion of two critical sensors into a unified system.

Ground surveillance radar forms the backbone of the ELI-3312 Huntereye's detection and identification capabilities. This radar system provides immediate awareness of potential threats, allowing for swift response and mitigation measures. Complementing this radar functionality is the embedded Electro-Optical (EO) fire source sensor, strategically positioned within an integrated Remote Weapon Station (RWS).

The modularity of the ELI-3312 Huntereye system ensures adaptability to diverse weapon stations and guns, catering to the specific requirements of different military configurations. By combining radar and EO technologies, the system not only detects and classifies fire sources but also tracks them in real-time, offering a comprehensive understanding of the battlefield environment.

In essence, IAI's ELI-3312 Huntereye represents a significant advancement in tank defense systems, offering a pragmatic solution to mitigate the threat posed by drone-delivered warheads. Its ability to provide early warning and precise situational awareness equips military forces with the necessary tools to effectively safeguard their assets against evolving threats on the modern battlefield. As defense strategies continue to evolve, solutions like the ELI-3312 Huntereye will play a crucial role in ensuring the security and effectiveness of armored formations in an ever-changing operational landscape.