L3Harris Powers Rheinmetall’s Next-Gen Combat Vehicles with Advanced MX-GCS Targeting System
L3Harris Technologies is playing a crucial role in supporting American Rheinmetall’s development of next-generation combat vehicle capabilities, delivering its expertise in secure communications, electronic warfare, and mission systems. Central to this effort is the WESCAM MX-GCS B, a compact third-generation sighting system that enhances surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance while reducing the vehicle’s visual signature.
The MX-GCS B supports both gunner and commander stations in a streamlined, single-part configuration. This design reduces system complexity, eases sustainment, and improves battlefield readiness. The system builds upon lessons from earlier trials with the MX-GCS MK2, which allowed Rheinmetall to refine integration and performance.
“With one sight system for multiple crew stations, we reduce complexity while delivering superior battlefield awareness,” explained Matt Heath, Principal of Business Development at L3Harris and a former U.S. Marine Corps tank operator.
A standout feature of the MX-GCS B is its stabilization technology. Even under heavy vibration, shock, or recoil, operators can maintain target lock and image clarity, ensuring precise engagement in combat conditions.
Beyond optics, L3Harris processors power mission systems and AI-based sensor fusion, reducing crew workload while improving decision-making speed. Combined with secure communications and real-time data sharing, the system allows for collaborative targeting and rapid coordination, giving soldiers a decisive edge in fast-changing battle environments.
“Our systems are built to meet current needs and to continue evolving as battlefield demands shift,” said Anthony Sarto, Engineering Fellow for Targeting and Sensor Systems at L3Harris Technologies.
The entire platform is designed using a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), aligned with the U.S. Army’s Ground Combat Systems Common Infrastructure Architecture. This enables quick upgrades, third-party integration, and rapid adaptation to new missions—ensuring that vehicles remain capable against future threats.
L3Harris is a key partner in “Team Lynx,” which includes American Rheinmetall Vehicles, Textron Systems, Raytheon, Allison Transmission, and Anduril Industries. The team is competing in the U.S. Army’s XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle program, the replacement for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. A multibillion-dollar program, the XM30 is expected to begin production later this decade, with first units fielded before 2030.
From early trade studies to integration testing, L3Harris has worked with Rheinmetall to ensure smooth performance across space, weight, power, and cost considerations. To support long-term operations, the company operates 14 global maintenance centers, offering diagnostics, training, and rapid field support.
Veterans make up a large portion of the L3Harris workforce, ensuring real battlefield experience informs design and sustainment planning. “We build with purpose,” Heath noted. “It’s the people behind the systems who ensure reliability—because they know what’s at stake.”
By fusing compact sensors, AI, secure communications, and modular open systems, L3Harris and Rheinmetall are shaping the next generation of combat vehicles. The result is a platform designed not only for today’s challenges but also adaptable to the unpredictable demands of tomorrow’s wars.
✍️ This article is written by the team of The Defense News.