Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1519846
TOPAZ ICMS was developed by WB Electronics (le- ading entity in the WB Group) back in the 1990s, and it started to be delivered to the Polish Armed Forces in the early 21st Century. Initially, it was being used by the elements operating the 122 mm 2S1 Gvozdika ho- witzers. Thanks to the fact that TOPAZ, by design, is a modular, updatable system, it should not be a surprise that during the coming years, TOPAZ has become an element of inventory of other units, armed with the WR-40 Langusta MLRS systems, or Dana self-propel- led gun-howitzers. The current list of domestic inte- grations also includes the M120 Rak self-propelled mortars, Krab and K9 gun-howitzers, and finally, the HOMAR-K rocket launchers. TOPAZ ICMS allows to shorten the response time of artillery systems, along with the implementation of automation for defining the firing solution, auto- mated intel distribution, and enhanced situational awareness. The system functions based on data distribution between computerized terminals instal- led on command vehicles, artillery vehicles, and other specialist platforms, and portable terminals, within the framework of reconnaissance, command, and fire control networks. Data is transmitted via the means of digital communications. The ASCA certification may also result in the Polish system becoming far more attractive to the interna- tional customer. TOPAZ has already been delivered to Ukraine and integrated with a Ukrainian-wheeled howitzer platform. It also has achieved its first export success, with one of the NATO nations adopting the solution. In May 2023 the WB Group announced that the system was selected by the Bulgarian Armed Forces. ANALISYS