The GCS-200 is a new unmanned explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) platform developed by Global Clearance Solutions (GCS). It is the medium-sized variant of the GCS family of EOD platforms, which also include the GCS-100 and GCS-300.
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The GCS-200 EOD vehicle was launched by Global Clearance Solutions at IDEX 2017 defence exhibition held in Abu Dhabi in February.
The GCS-200 can conduct counter-improvised explosive device (IED), mine-clearance and runway clearance missions.
GCS-200 design details
The GCS-200 incorporates an advanced and unique design based on the design concepts of the GCS-100 and GCS-300 product range. The vital components under the body can be accessed through two hydraulic doors able to be opened simultaneously.
The EOD vehicle measures 4.19m long without attachment, whereas the overall length of the platform with manipulator arm is 10.57m. The vehicle has a width of 1.92m and height of 2.02m. The weights of the vehicle with and without the manipulator arm are 10,500kg and 8,260kg respectively.
The GCS-200 can perform mine-clearance missions at a maximum rate of 12,000m² a day, at a speed between 0.8km/h and 2.3km/h. The manipulator arm can reach a maximum distance of 6.38m and lift a maximum weight of 1,000kg.
Equipment aboard GCS-200 EOD
The standard three-point hitch allows for the integration of a range of attachments, including tiller and flail for the clearance of anti-personnel (AP) and anti-tank (AT) mines, and manipulator arm for the clearance of IEDs and heavy enhanced radiation weapons (ERWs). It can also be attached with a dozer blade for earth-moving and removal of obstacles, and fork lift for lifting heavy objects.
The runway flail attached to the platform enables the destruction, collection and removal of hazardous objects and materials, while the runway clearance system aboard the vehicle enables gathering and clearance of cluster munitions and rubble.
The interchangeable commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) attachments allow the operators to use the platform for a range of EOD and mine-clearance missions.
The platform is also installed with an adaptable camera arm with pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera system. The arm can be splayed in vertical and horizontal directions to achieve more flexibility and better visibility during operation. The PTZ camera system can be loured into a secure position during transportation. The GCS-200 also integrates infrared (IR) and thermal cameras at rear and either side of the hull for 360° vision.
Self-protection of the unmanned EOD platform
The hull and chassis of the GCS-200 system are made of Hardox steel, resulting in high levels of ballistic protection. The V-shaped hull deflects the blast impacts away from the platform. The lower forward section integrates steel outer shell with a thickness of 20mm, while radiator housing integrates sandwich-type armour.
The outer shell of the vehicle covers all vital components to protect them against ballistic threats. The components are designed to withstand rough climatic conditions.
The remotely controlled platform can be safely operated from an operator cabin or an armoured vehicle located at a line of sight distance of 1,000m.
Engine and performance
The GCS-200 EOD vehicle is powered by a Deutz six-cylinder diesel engine coupled to an automatic transmission with six forward gears and one reverse gear. The engine develops a maximum power output of 176kW (240hp) and consumes between 19L and 25L of fuel an hour.
The vehicle is equipped with a highly efficient, side-by-side cooling system enabling operations in hot and humid conditions. The cooling system offers faster and more effective cooling for the engine and ensures superior cooling and longevity of all parts. The hydraulic pump of the system enables the operator to alter the fan speed according to the cooling requirements.
The Global Armoured Vehicles and Counter-IED Vehicles Market 2011-21
This project forms part of our recent analysis and forecasts of the global armoured vehicles and counter-IED vehicles market available from our business information platform Strategic Defence Intelligence. For more information click here or contact us: EMEA: +44 20 7936 6783; Americas: +1 415 439 4914; Asia Pacific: +61 2 9947 9709 or via email.
