Infantry weapons firepower enhancement is provided by more accurate improved performance of kinetic ammunition, of advanced multi-purpose munitions such as 40mm grenades and other lethal and less-than-lethal means. The use of optical sights, including red-tot reflection and magnifying optics (x1.5 – x3) improve target discrimination in daylight and nighttime use. Night combat is still considered advantageous for the superior equipped regular forces.
Lightweight night sights include daylight reflection sights adapted to night vision devices, or dedicated night sights integrated with image intensifiers (I2) or thermal sights. Laser aiming lights complement night vision devices offering accurate coordination of fire, at close ranges. Thermal sights are heavier and more bulky but they provide significant advantages as they are not restricted in operations in total darkness such as in underground facilities or caves; they also provide significant advantages in target discrimination. Another advantage of modern sighting systems is the ability to couple electro-optical sights with video communications, improving training, control and coordination of forces, as well as aiming and firing behind corners or obstacles. Systems are offered as complete solutions such as CornerShot, while others are available as add-on kits for existing weapons. Optical sights, and Sight/Camera combinations are becoming a standard issue for all future infantry combat suits.
Further improvement in firepower is provided by fire control systems (FCS) for assault rifles and support weapons, including long-range sharpshooting weapons, and support weapons such as 40mm grenades. For small arms, FCS are provided by miniature embedded computers and displays integrating compact laser ranging systems. Systems include electro-optics for target acquisition and marking, range measurement equipment coupled with the optical sight, to project a ballistic corrected aim-points for accurate long range engagements. The use of such integrated FCS enables firing of pre-programmable time-activated air-burst munitions, for enhanced effect against soft, or protected targets.
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