With the Smash X4, the Israeli manufacturer Smart Shooter recently released a new version of its fire control sight for hand weapons.
Michael Fiedler, Director of Sales and Marketing Europe, described to Soldier & Technology: “The X4 was developed to significantly increase the identification range and combat distance of Smash. The system's camera uses the optical 4x magnification and thus increases the range for image processing (tracking, locking). This means that ground targets, both mobile and stationary, can be combated up to at least 400 meters and small drones up to 250 meters. Attachments can be used for unrestricted night fighting capability. Since it is a digital rifle scope, we can integrate the device into Battle Management Systems (BMS). Here information can be augmented or provided in the uplink. For example, during a firefight, Smash can automatically generate target data - directional angle, distance or photo - and make it available to the BMS. With the X4, the target data is even more precise and can then be used better.”
Smash combines electro-optical hardware with embedded image recognition software and a ballistic calculator. According to the manufacturer, the system can be used for day and night combat and offers various modes: drone mode, target recognition, lock & track, recording (photo, video) - e.g. for training debriefings or legal purposes. The system supports position stabilization, can be used against static and dynamic targets and helps the shooter to clearly locate targets against various backgrounds. Drones can also be detected and tracked.
Inspired by missile lock-on and fighter aircraft head-up display technology, Smash eliminates multiple shooter errors, including incorrect aiming, trigger pull, canting, and misjudgment of range and lead.
The mentioned 400 meter combat distance for ground targets refers to both day and night combat capabilities. So far, the system has been integrated for the M4, AR15 and SR25 (M110) assault rifles. As with the Smart Shooter 2000, the manufacturer also promises with the In addition to a Picatinny rail for attachment, adjustments must be made to the trigger system. Because the shooter pulls the trigger, the system locks the trigger mechanically and only allows a shot to be fired if the shooter moves the aiming point of the weapon over the calculated holding point of a previously marked target. The shot then breaks automatically. The manufacturer promises that every shot hits. At the push of a button, the system allows the shooter to fire the rifle manually if necessary (bypassing the fire control system). The system can be switched on again by pressing the button again.
It is offered both with and without a laser range finder (LRF). With LRF, the size is 206 x 102 x 83 millimeters and the weight is 1,250 grams. Without LRF, the system is 130 grams lighter. Power is provided by a rechargeable intelligent lithium-ion battery. This is sufficient for 72 hours of operation or up to 3,600 smash-assisted shots or measurements. The LRF has a range of up to 1,000 meters.
Andre Forkert
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