Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has been contracted to provide advanced Samson Mk II remote weapon stations (RWS) for Lithuania's Boxer armoured fighting vehicles.

The contract forms a part of a previously signed deal to provide 88 Boxer vehicles to Lithuanian armed forces, starting in 2017.

Rafael's dual-axis, gyrostabilised, dual-sight remote-controlled weapon system is capable of mounting multiple weapons.

When used with any 6x6 or 8x8 armoured fighting vehicles, Samson Mk II offers optional armour protection, improved hit accuracy, under-armour reloading, increased rigidity and enhanced gun elevation capabilities.

The remote weapon station has been designed to eliminate deck penetration, while an in-hull reloading system provides additional crew protection.

"The company's RWS will provide the Lithuanian armed forces with improved lethality and flexibility in both urban and open terrain scenarios."

Under the latest contract, the Lithuanian Army will take delivery of Samson Mk II systems with a 30mm automatic cannon and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun.

Rafael's Spike Long Range ATGM launchers will carry two missiles and eight smoke grenade launchers on each station.

The company's RWS will provide the Lithuanian armed forces with improved lethality and flexibility in both urban and open terrain scenarios.

Available in four land versions and two naval configurations, Rafael RWS is currently installed in more than 25 countries.

Samson RWS supports a wide range of weapons and sensors, such as 5.56mm / 7.62mm / 12.7mm machine guns, 40mm automatic grenade launchers, anti-tank missiles, observation pods, and non-lethal capabilities.

Image: 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun mounted on Samson RCWS. Photo: courtesy of MathKnight.