Smoke throwing system
Smoke throw systems (also smoke throw systems ) are self-protection systems of military vehicles . They are used to fire smoke grenades , which use a pyrotechnic charge to quickly generate thick fog . In this way, the vehicle can evade visual tracking by the enemy or detection by electro-optical sensors in combat or when threats are expected. Protected by the smoke screen, it can then either withdraw, change position or carry out other tactical maneuvers. Smoke throwing systems are therefore among the so-called “soft” distance-active protective measures .
Smoke throw systems are often installed in batteries on armored vehicles . For example, the German Leopard 2A6 carries two batteries, each with eight throwing cups in 76 mm caliber, on each side of the tower. The angular fanning of the throwing cups is designed in such a way that optimal deployment of the smoke thrower is guaranteed. In the Bundeswehr , the rapid smoke launchers of the type DM55A and DM35 can be fired from the smoke launch system. They are triggered manually or partially automatically by a laser warning device or are integrated into more complex overall systems (see e.g. the development in the Armored Systems Modernization project ).
In contrast to smoke generators that are used on vehicles and ships, the duration of the smoke ammunition, which can be brought via smoke throwing systems, is only brief.
literature
- Bundeswehr, Technische Dienstvorschrift (TDv) 1055 / 019-15 Smoke thrower system for armored vehicles
- Bundeswehr, Central Service Regulation (ZDv) 3/21 Use of smoke products
