Rheinmetall to provide Trailblazer on UK’s MLRS A2

Image courtesy Rheinmetall UK 

The initial contract will see prototypes delivered in early 2026, with the main production starting later that year. The total contract value is in the mid-single-digit million euro range. The M270 A2 MLRS will be the 17th military platform to use the Trailblazer, which was developed and manufactured in the UK. There are currently seven user countries. 

The upgrade programme for the M270 A2 MLRS tasks Rheinmetall UK to design and deliver enhanced Vehicle Vision capability against specific platform requirements.

As a mature, software-defined and SIL(safety integrity level) 2-certified system, Trailblazer is already installed in the Boxer Mechanised Infantry Vehicle, the Challenger 3 main battle tank and the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle. This offers advantages through the standardisation of the entire British combat vehicle fleet.

This programme will see the UK’s M270 A2 MLRS issued with the most modern and capable vehicle vision technology designed to aid vehicle manoeuvre in complex environments 24/7 for both driver and commander. The programme responsibility includes driver vision sensors, remote side and rear vision sensors, delivery of installation kits including hardened cabling, switches and protective covers.

Trailblazer improves crew effectiveness by extending the vehicle field of view beyond the daylight spectrum. With enhanced day light, thermal and fusion vision, Trailblazer offers significant crew advantage in adverse weather, obscured and low-light conditions. Featuring very low-latency, the systems aid terrain navigation, obstacle avoidance, safe route selection and enhanced threat detection. Compliance with SIL-2, (N)GVA and DEF STAN 00-82 video distribution means Trailblazer is safe to operate and easy to integrate.

Managing Director Rheinmetall Electronics UK, Richard Streeter said: “This latest contract further solidifies Trailblazer as the Driver Vision system of choice for the UK Army. That choice is built on our reputation for delivery of innovative and reliable technologies into the UK MoD. We are delighted to be able to upgrade the UK’s latest MLRS A2 platforms with the very best vehicle vision systems.”