Slovenian defense systems integrator Valhalla Turrets has unveiled its new ASGARD 230 modular remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) at the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition in Paris. The platform represents one of 17 distinct Valhalla-engineered turret configurations showcased across the exhibition floor this year, underscoring the company’s expanding market footprint in Europe. Developed in close cooperation with the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia, the ASGARD 230 program is geared toward emerging tactical requirements for enhanced kinetic output on lightweight armored platforms, with a specific focus on modern counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) and short-range air defense (SHORAD) profiles.
The ASGARD 230 features a highly modular layout designed to accept a wide array of mission-specific armaments. The configuration presented at the exhibition is optimized for light multirole platforms and is integrated onto an Oshkosh Defense Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) chassis. The system’s architectural modularity enables configuring the turret with multiple weapon lines ranging from standard machine guns and automated cannons up to guided anti-tank or surface-to-air missile options. The primary kinetic element of the showcased variant is the Northrop Grumman M230 Link Fed (LF) 30 mm chain gun. The choice of the M230 LF allows the platform to utilize low-recoil, high-explosive dual-purpose (HEDP) or proximity-fuzed ammunition, making it highly effective against both light-armored ground installations and low-altitude aerial threats like Class 1 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
To support advanced targeting and target tracking capabilities, the ASGARD 230 is equipped with the Atmolab THORIN electro-optical (EO) sighting system. This day/night sensor suite provides stabilized tracking loops and high-resolution thermal imaging to maintain operational readiness in degraded visual environments. Target acquisition and situational awareness are further enhanced by the integration of the HENSOLDT SPEXER active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system. The SPEXER radar provides automated, multi-target detection and classification performance optimized for low-radar-cross-section (RCS) targets, facilitating seamless handover to the EO sight and weapon fire-control computer.
Valhalla Turrets officials expressed formal appreciation for the support received from the Slovenian Ministry of Defence throughout the prototyping and testing campaign. The development program highlights an ongoing strategic initiative within the Slovenian industrial base to export high-end, sensor-fused remote weapon stations to international NATO and allied customers seeking modular upgrades for light tactical fleets. Valhalla Turrets engineers and manufactures remote-controlled weapon stations (RCWS) and turret systems for modern defence platforms. The company portfolio spans the full range: from lightweight stations for agile, mobile platforms to larger systems built for the most demanding operational requirements. These systems provide adaptable protection of critical infrastructure, military facilities, convoys and deployed units, integrating into layered defence concepts and wider sensor and command architectures.
