Texas-based Allen Control Systems (ACS) has won a contract with defense firm ManTech to integrate its Bullfrog autonomous weapon system onto maritime platforms.
The deal places Bullfrog directly in support of the US Special Operations Forces (SOF) operating at sea, a notable shift from primarily land-based focused deployments.
Bullfrog pairs artificial intelligence, computer vision, and proprietary control software to turn legacy and modern weapons into precision engagement tools.
ACS said the system significantly improves engagement accuracy across a range of targets and enhances the performance of existing battlefield systems.
“Maritime SOF units operate in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments our military faces, and as such they are among those units on the forefront of adopting mission-critical technology,” said Mike Wior, co-founder and CEO of ACS.
Bullfrog by Design
Offered in a gun-turret configuration, Bullfrog is built to counter Class 1-3 unmanned aerial systems, or those weighing up to 600 kilograms (1,320 pounds).
The 400-pound (181-kilogram) system mounts an M240 machine gun chambered in 7.62 millimeters, delivering fast, precision fire in automatic or semi-auto modes.
Its lightweight design supports installation on NATO-standard military vehicles, while its fully passive detection system carries a reported false-negative rate of less than 2 percent.
Proven in Live-Fire Trials
ACS previously showcased Bullfrog at a US Department of Defense tactical solutions convention at Camp Atterbury, Indiana.
During two weeks of daily live-fire trials, the system consistently knocked down single- and multi-drone threats in rapid succession.
It also demonstrated its low cost, lightweight build, as well as its minimal power needs.
