L3Harris has begun high-volume production of its VAMPIRE counter-unmanned system, as demand grows for capabilities to counter small drone threats to military forces and infrastructure.
The new production line, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is designed to scale output as required, with a flexible setup allowing integration of the system onto ground vehicles and containerised weapon platforms.
According to the company, VAMPIRE has been deployed in European combat operations since 2023, where it has been used to detect, track and engage small uncrewed aerial systems.
The system is a modular kit that can be fitted to a range of vehicles and is capable of launching laser-guided munitions, including 70 mm rockets, offering a relatively low-cost option for counter-drone engagements.
L3Harris said the expansion reflects increasing operational demand, with the production line intended to accelerate delivery timelines and support deployment to frontline units.
Tom Kirkland, president of targeting and sensor systems at L3Harris, said the company is working to deliver systems “as fast as possible,” adding that the new facility brings together “people, technology, facilities and innovation” to increase output.
The move follows earlier efforts to expand the VAMPIRE family into multiple variants, including configurations for land, maritime and air use, as well as integration with new ground vehicles.
