US Navy Selects VAMPIRE System for Coastal Defence

The United States Navy selected the VAMPIRE counter-unmanned system for coastal and littoral defence on 8 September 2026. VAMPIRE stands for Vehicle-Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment and is developed by L3Harris Technologies, a defence company headquartered in Melbourne, Florida.

VAMPIRE system

VAMPIRE is a modular counter-unmanned system designed for installation on different vehicle platforms. The system is used for kinetic engagement against aerial, ground, and sea-based threats with laser-guided rockets.

Sensor and weapon configuration

The baseline VAMPIRE system uses a WESCAM MX-10D RSTA stabilised electro-optical and infrared sensor mounted on a telescopic mast. The sensor supports digital target tracking and laser designation. The system employs 70 mm AGR-20A Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System rockets, which are also known as APKWS rockets.

Maritime use and command architecture

L3Harris is ruggedising the VAMPIRE platform for maritime operations and exposure to harsh environmental conditions. The system is designed to run the Widow Mission Management System, which is compliant with the Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control architecture. L3Harris has also developed a maritime variant called Black Wake for crewed and uncrewed vessels.

Important Facts for Exams

• VAMPIRE expands to Vehicle-Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment.
• WESCAM MX-10D RSTA is a stabilised electro-optical and infrared sensor system.
• APKWS stands for Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System and uses 70 mm laser-guided rockets.
• FAADC2 stands for Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control.

The U.S. Navy did not disclose the contract value, total quantity, or delivery schedule for the VAMPIRE system. The exact VAMPIRE variant ordered by the Navy was not specified.