Defense will replace and expand its short-range anti-tank (SRAT) capacity. Potential opponents are getting stronger through expansion and modernization. That is why the armed forces need more clout. So more and more powerful anti-tank agents are needed. State Secretary Barbara Visser informed the House of this by letter yesterday.
Four systems
The new SRAT capability will comprise four systems:
— Fighting units that do not primarily operate on foot use the current Panzerfaust as the VSRAT system. No supplement is required for this.
— For light combat units (on foot) and support units there will be an easy to operate, light and cheaper VSRAT system.
— Combat units are getting a new SRAT system.
— Potential opponents are better protected thanks to active protection systems (APS). Therefore, the anti-tank capacity must be further improved over time. In the long term, a SRAT system will be needed that can cope with vehicles with modern APS. This will be acquired later.
The costs are between € 100 million and € 250 million. The purchase risk is low with the simple, lightweight VSRAT system (2) and SRAT system (3). This is because it concerns existing, proven systems.