An upgraded version of General Dynamics Land Systems’ PERCH platform is due to reach the U.S. Army by the end of October. The company will deliver four PERCH 2.0 prototypes to the 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood for soldiers to integrate onto Abrams tanks and evaluate.
The system is designed to provide beyond-line-of-sight surveillance and launch AeroVironment Switchblade loitering munitions. Scott Taylor, GDLS’ director of U.S. growth, said the Army will use the prototypes for experimentation.
Built around operational needs
PERCH, short for Precision Effects & Reconnaissance-Canister-Housed, can be integrated onto Abrams tanks and Stryker vehicles. It combines surveillance capabilities beyond the line of sight with AeroVironment’s loitering munitions.
GDLS developed the first version using internal research and development funding, drawing on lessons from the war in Ukraine, feedback from commanders in Europe and discussions with senior leaders in III Armored Corps. Taylor said the effort was intended to respond quickly to the Army’s needs.
After demonstrating the initial system, GDLS received Army feedback and incorporated it into the first PERCH 2.0 prototype, again using company research and development funds.
Easier reloads and firing without opening hatches
The Army’s initial feedback called for improved beyond-line-of-sight technology, easier reloading and more storage space. To create additional room, GDLS replaced AeroVironment’s SB600 with the smaller SB300.
The Army also wanted the system to be capable of firing without requiring soldiers to open the vehicle’s hatches.
After evaluating the second version, the Army found the design compelling and requested four prototypes. It purchased three through the Abrams System Technical Support contract, which is periodically updated. The PERCH 2.0 purchases were added to the contract in August.
Army explores loitering munitions on more armored vehicles
The Army is showing growing interest in mounting loitering munitions on armored vehicles. In addition to Abrams, the service is considering the capability for the XM30, its planned replacement for the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle.
Both contenders for the XM30 program—American Rheinmetall’s Lynx and GDLS’ Wolf—include options for attaching loitering munitions. GDLS has not said which types of munitions could be integrated onto the Wolf.
