Eurosatory 2022: BLR Mk 2 unmanned ground vehicle breaks cover

The BLR Mk 2 at Eurosatory 2022. (Sonny Butterworth/Janes)

Israel's BLR Mk 2 unmanned technology demonstration platform was unveiled at Eurosatory 2022 in Paris.

Images of the previously unidentified vehicle in transport had earlier emerged on social media, prompting speculation on the system's origin and intended purpose. In a press release on 13 June, the Israeli Ministry of Defense (MoD) confirmed that the system is an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) produced by Tel Aviv-based BL Advanced Ground Support Systems Ltd.

Speaking to Janes , industry sources confirmed that later iterations of the exhibited system are expected to assume a ground combat and observation role, typically as a front-line platform within a fleet of vehicles. The MoD classifies the vehicle as a Medium Robotic Combat Vehicle (M-RCV).

Sources also confirmed that a devoted unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) carrier variant is also in development. This variant will have no turret but will instead be capable of launching a UAV swarm. A swarm management system is understood to be in development with the MoD for this purpose.

At Eurosatory, the BLR Mk 2 was exhibited with a single UAV launcher and recovery tool, a 30 mm cannon, the Elbit Iron Fist active protection system, and an autonomy kit.

The 30 mm autonomous turret is the product of the MoD's Tank and APC Directorate. The autonomy kit – or ‘virtual gunner' – is capable of identifying, calculating range, prioritising targets, and selecting appropriate weapons and ammunition to engage, according to industry representatives. A human-in-the-loop would be required to remotely approve any engagement.