Continuing with its final integration process, the new remotely operated SARC UT30BR2 turret, developed by ARES, made a decisive advance in the Brazilian Army’s modernization program in recent weeks by successfully completing its first live-fire tests from a 6×6 Guarani Wheeled Armored Fighting Vehicle (VCBR) at the Army Evaluation Center (CAEx). The activities were overseen by personnel from the Directorate of Manufacturing (DF) and the Rio War Arsenal (AGR), reaffirming the institutional commitment to incorporating new combat capabilities.
The SARC UT30BR2 is not merely an evolution of the previous version but rather a leap in technological capability. The new turret introduces electromechanical and optronic upgrades, most notably the integration of the COAPS-L stabilized panoramic sight module, high-definition sensors, enhanced target detection, recognition and identification capabilities, and video analysis powered by artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, this system has been designed to integrate anti-tank missiles, significantly increasing the lethality of the 6×6 Guarani system. As part of the planned enhancements, an AntiSARP (anti-drone) kit is currently under development, which will include 360º coverage radars and the ability to neutralize drones and loitering munitions through programmable airburst munitions, in response to emerging asymmetric threats.
It is worth noting that on March 12, Major General Tales Eduardo Areco Villela, Director of Manufacturing, led a visit to the facilities of ARES Aeroespacial e Defesa, where he supervised the progress of the upgrade of eight UT30BR systems to the new UT30BR2 configuration, under Contract No. 01/2023-DF. During the visit, the integration of the first prototype of the turret onto a 6×6 Guarani VCBR was verified, with the unit later sent to CAEx for testing to validate the system’s safety, reliability, functionality, and operational performance prior to its final incorporation into the fleet.
About the SARC UT30BR2
The UT30BR2 is an unmanned turret armed with a 30×173 mm Bushmaster II automatic cannon, a 7.62×51 mm coaxial machine gun, and a 76 mm smoke grenade launcher system. The main cannon operates with an electric chain-gun mechanism—a technology that improves firing safety, simplifies maintenance, and eliminates the need for combustion gas management, thus increasing combat reliability. The turret’s design allows for full remote control from inside the vehicle, offering superior crew protection.
Among its main innovations is the incorporation of the stabilized COAPS-L panoramic sight module, developed by Israeli company Elbit Systems. This system provides advanced target detection, acquisition, and tracking capabilities both day and night, thanks to high-end sensors and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. Its compact, modular, and lightweight architecture facilitates its adaptation to various platforms, including main battle tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and unmanned ground systems.
Image credits: ARES – Brazilian Army.
You may also like: Embraer will demonstrate the capabilities of the KC-390 Millennium to the U.S. Armed Forces and allies in Las Vegas
