The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded L3Harris Technologies a new contract for additional VAMPIRE systems, designed to counter the growing threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This follow-on order expands on the company’s earlier delivery and deployment of VAMPIRE units in 2023, which supported European defense efforts.
VAMPIRE—short for Vehicle Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment—is engineered to detect, track, and neutralize drones and remotely piloted aircraft. The system has been deployed in scenarios where European forces aim to secure critical infrastructure from aerial threats.
According to L3Harris, the system integrates the company’s WESCAM MX-10D targeting suite with a weapons station, allowing rapid target acquisition and engagement. It also includes the Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System (APKWS) rocket, a proprietary proximity fuze, and mission management software, combining to enhance the system’s performance against both aerial and ground threats.
In addition to its land-based role, the VAMPIRE system is being explored for use in maritime operations. Its design may allow for adaptation against threats such as fast inshore attack craft and low-altitude aircraft over water.