The Brazilian Army, in collaboration with Ares Aeroespacial e Defesa – a Brazilian branch of Elbit Systems – has introduced a significantly upgraded version of the M113BR armoured personnel carrier (APC). This upgraded APC, belonging to the Brazilian Army 20th Armoured Infantry Battalion, represents a cutting-edge technology demonstrator developed with the support of the army’s manufacturing directorate. Ares has disclosed that this initiative could pave the way for a comprehensive upgrade program for the M113BR fleet, pending trials set for April. The upgrade project underscores a strategic emphasis on bolstering situational awareness and protection for M113BR armoured personnel carrier.
Among the key enhancements is the integration of the REMAX 4 remotely controlled weapon station, a product of a collaborative effort between Ares and the Army Technological Center (CTEx). This advanced weapon station is equipped with a dual-axis gyro-stabilized mount, capable of supporting both 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm machine guns, and includes an advanced ammunition feeding system, smoke dischargers, and the state-of-the-art OIP Sensor Systems EOPTRIS 2.0 imager. Additionally, a command-and-control workstation complements this robust arsenal, with an optional laser warning system for heightened threat detection.
To further enhance operational effectiveness and crew safety, the vehicle has been fitted with an OIP Sentinal driver’s thermal imaging system, ensuring superior visibility under all conditions. A new power management system has also been introduced, promising an autonomy of 13 hours and featuring an adaptable mechanical interface for versatile mission roles. In tandem with these upgrades, the APC has been equipped with the RDS-Defesa, a sophisticated multiband software-defined radio developed by CTEx and AEL Sistemas, alongside the Elbit Systems Enhanced Tactical Computer (ETC) MK7. The ETC MK7 supports the Proteus-SGP platform management system and a battle management system (BMS), both critical for enhanced command, control, and communication capabilities on the battlefield.
Ares Aerospacial e Defensa is a Brazilian arms company which has operated since 2010 as a subsidiary company of the Israeli defense company Elbit Systems Ltd. Ares concentrates its activities in the planning, design, development, manufacture, integration, maintenance and commercialization of products in three main lines of business: Stations of Arms, Naval Systems, Optical and Electro-Optical. In 2017, Ares Aeroespacial e Defesa signed a $100 million contract to supply the Brazilian Armed Forces with remote-controlled weapon systems (RCWS). The RCWS, named REMAX, will be supplied over a five-year period, and will be used in armored vehicles and logistics vehicles utilized in combat for troop transport, border patrol and peace keeping missions.
