The development of protection systems began in the 1970s as a way to defend against rocket propelled grenades and anti-tank guided missiles. Early systems used proximity fuzes and explosive reactive armor to destroy incoming projectiles. Through the 1980s and 90s, active protection technology advanced significantly. Countries like Russia, Israel, and the United States invested heavily in research and testing of new active protection concepts.

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the first generation of full-fledged protection systems entered service. Systems like the Russian Arena and Israeli Trophy were able to autonomously detect, track, and neutralize a wide variety of threats. Laser-based interceptors and smart submunitions became the dominant engagement mechanisms.second-generation protection systems saw deployment in the mid-2000s. These new APS incorporated radars with wider fields of view as well as multi-spectral sensors for more robust threat detection. Faster digital processors and interceptor guidance technologies enabled engagement of rocket warheads in their terminal flight phase.

Current Active Protection System Capabilities

Today’s Active Protection Systems offer unprecedented capability to defend combat vehicles from an array of threats. Prominent current systems like the U.S. Iron Curtain, Russian Afganit, and Israeli Iron Fist utilize advanced multi-sensor fusion to detect threats from all directions out to ranges of several kilometers.

Upon detecting an incoming round, these systems can classify the threat type within milliseconds using acoustic, infrared, ultraviolet, and laser rangefinder sensors. Digital signal processors then calculate the projectile’s trajectory. If it poses a threat, interceptor munitions are automatically dispatched with precision guidance. Engagement typically occurs well inside 100 meters from the protected platform.

Future Directions for Active Protection Technology

While Active Protection Systems have grown tremendously capable, continued research aims to enhance performance even further. Dual-mode sensors fusing infrared, laser, and other signatures promise earlier threat detection. New interceptor types under development may include plasma jets, high-power microwaves, and chemical lasers.

Advanced threat-tracking algorithms will allow engagement of artillery shells and mortar rounds which present very short flight times. Deploying active protection on lighter tactical vehicles is a goal, though downsizing sensor and interceptor packages remains challenging. Networking APS across platforms may realize integrated defense umbrellas covering entire formations.

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