Introduction

In France, the Directorate General for Armament (DGA) has successfully integrated the STRIKE (Adjustable Kinetic and Balanced Shot Stabilizer) stabilization system onboard the NH-90 NFH ‘Caiman’ helicopter.

The STRIKE System

The STRIKE, developed by SME COSE, is an adjustable kinetic and balanced shot stabilizer, allowing snipers onboard helicopters to maintain shot precision without being constrained by the weight of the weapon used and the vibrations of the hosting helicopter.

Alternatively to armament, the STRIKE can be equipped with a telephoto lens equipped camera to carry out intelligence missions.

Compatible Armaments

The weapons compatible with the STRIKE are the 12.7x99mm calibre M3M heavy machine gun, the 12.7x99mm calibre PGM Hécate II sniper rifle, and the 7.62x51mm calibre HK417 assault rifle.

The DGA had already integrated the STRIKE onboard Gazelle, Cougar, and Fennec helicopters before the Caiman.

Source and image credit @ Directorate General of Armament (DGA)