ARCAS: Artificial Intelligence in the assault rifle

Elbit Systems today announced the introduction of ARCAS. ARCAS is a computer-controlled system with artificial intelligence (AI) that is connected to the electro-optical sight of the rifle, a helmet-mounted ocular, and the weapon assemblies, providing soldiers with intuitively actionable combat information in real-time. ARCAS transforms assault rifles into digital, networked combat systems, significantly enhancing the effectiveness and survivability of soldiers in dismounted vehicles during day and night.

ARCAS provides soldiers and special forces with capabilities that were previously unavailable to them: passive rangefinding, automatic ballistic correction, detection of firing fields, video motion detection, the ability to shoot around corners and from the hip, interface with tactical command systems, navigation aid, identification of friend and foe, and display of weapon status without the need for live fire.

A computer-controlled calculator with new software and a range of applications is integrated into the foregrip of the assault rifle. The compact computing unit receives and processes data collected from the soldier's field of view, C4I systems, other ARCAS users in the team, and directly from the weapon mechanically. The combat information is presented to the soldier via augmented reality overlay, which he sees through the EO sight or the ocular attached to the helmet. Soldiers operate the system via a joystick button on the rifle's forend through an intuitive graphical user interface.

"ARCAS is another important component in our expanded portfolio of solutions for dismounted soldiers. The development of this solution is part of our continuous efforts and R&D investments aimed at improving the effectiveness and survivability of infantry and special forces," said Thomas Nützel, CEO of Elbit Systems Germany, about the new system.

ARCAS is designed with an open architecture and has two configurations. It can include a thermal imaging device or a standard riflescope and can be connected to any existing EO sight. Depending on the operational needs and customer requirements, ARCAS can be operated with additional third-party applications. MORE information about ARCAS directly from ELBIT.

ELBIT SYSTEMS on the web: www.elbitsystems-de.com