According to Israel Lupa, Executive VP & CTO of Elta, the IAI subsidiary, Othello-P is a high-performance gunfire detection system (GDS) that employs extended SWIR optical and acoustic sensors with integrated AI processing. Lupa stated, “This very unique system was born in our innovation center, which aims to anticipate future combat zone needs in all aspects. The ideas generated by our staff and the Israeli startups we host are amazing, and many have been transformed into operational systems.”
Lupa mentioned that OTHELLO-P can operate in both stationary and On-The-Move configurations, with installation on all-terrain vehicles, Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFV), Main Battle Tanks (MBT), and autonomous unmanned platforms. A man-pack version has been developed for infantry and Special Forces operations as well.
The IAI official added that the fusion of electro-optics (EO) technology and acoustic sensors provides troops in the field with more accurate and versatile solutions for current and future challenges. OTHELLO-P is a lightweight, low-power, unique passive solution with 360-degree coverage, enabling very short and accurate sensor-to-shooter loop closure, thus providing protection and threat neutralization in the area.
“This unique system detects the flash, blast, and shock wave of the projectile. This combination gives the soldiers detection and localization of the fire source that no other GDS can provide,” Lupa pointed out, emphasizing that the system significantly shortens the sensor-to-shooter time.
IAI states that the system can operate day and night and in urban areas, addressing the challenges posed by noisy urban environments. Lupa stated, “We have solved this major problem.”
He explained that the system is capable of detecting AK-47 fire from a distance of 400 meters during the day and longer distances at night. According to the IAI official, an RPG launch can be detected from 2 km.
Each sensor of the system covers 180 degrees, but a combat vehicle can be equipped with two systems to achieve full coverage.
IAI mentions that, in addition to warning fighters on the battlefield, the data is transferred to higher echelons of command. In case there are multiple fire sources, other forces can utilize the system’s data to engage the enemy fire sources.
Col. (Res.) Itzik Ronen, a commander of an armored division in the IDF, told Defence Industry Europe that such a system is crucial in current war situations:
“Most of the fighting these days occurs in urban areas, with many hidden fire sources, especially for tank and APC crews. Another factor is that the enemy’s fire comes from not only 360 degrees on the ground but also from the air and underground. In this multi-dimensional combat, many different types of forces work together, and a clear picture of the enemy’s fire sources can contribute to mission success.”
