Modern Military Technology Brings Vehicle Self-Defense to the Forefront

Active protection systems are an emerging technology changing the way militaries think about vehicle defenses. As threats evolve, so too must protection strategies. New active systems aim to give vehicles an active defense through interceptor munitions rather than relying solely on passive armor.

How Active Protection Systems Work

Active protection systems, commonly referred to as APS, utilize sensors to detect incoming projectiles such as anti-tank guided missiles and rockets. Upon detection, the APS launches an interceptor projectile to destroy the incoming threat before impact. Modern systems must work within seconds to intercept threats moving at supersonic speeds.

Sophisticated sensors including radars, cameras, and radiofrequency detectors continuously monitor the airspace around protected vehicles. When a potential threat is identified, the onboard computer calculates the trajectory and aims an interceptor munition. The interceptors are typically small rockets armed with explosives designed to detonate within close proximity to the attacking missile or rocket.

The Goal: Destruction Prior to Impact

The goal of any Active Protection Systems is to detonate or destroy the incoming threat prior to impact with the protected vehicle. Destroying threats at a distance relies on precision targeting of fast-moving interceptors. Even a marginal error could result in the threat still making impact. Advances in sensors, guidance systems, and interceptor technologies help overcome these challenges to achieve the goal of pre-impact destruction.

Combining Hard and Soft-Kill

While hard-kill interceptors provide the primary defense through physical impact or blast, modern APS also incorporate soft-kill capabilities. Soft-kill involves decoys and other countermeasures that divert threats through optical, thermal, acoustic or other methods without direct impact. Used alongside hard-kill defenses, soft-kill adds layers of protection and confusion for potential threats. Together, active protection employs both hard and soft measures to defeat attacks through multiple means.