Rheinmetall Unveils SEOSS 400 Next-Level Tank Targeting System

Rheinmetall has unveiled the SEOSS 400, a state-of-the-art fire control system designed for the next generation of main battle tanks (MBTs). This new system is being developed alongside the company’s work on the 130 mm Future Gun System, which represents a significant upgrade from the current 120 mm tank guns. The SEOSS 400 is specifically engineered to address the limitations of existing sights on tanks, such as the EMES-15, which cannot fully exploit the extended range of the new weapon.

The SEOSS 400 features high-resolution sensors, including a 5-megapixel visible-spectrum camera and a 5-megapixel mid-wave infrared (MWIR) thermal sensor. These sensors provide an identification range exceeding 6 km, allowing targets to be detected, recognized, and engaged at distances greater than the effective range of current 130 mm rounds. Both the day and night sensors can be fused to enhance target detection, making it easier to spot threats even when engines or other heat sources are partially hidden.

A key innovation of the SEOSS 400 is its integration of artificial intelligence (AI). The system can automatically detect, identify, and classify targets, then feed them into the automatic tracking system, while the gunner only needs to authorize firing. The rangefinder supplies precise distance measurements, and the system calculates the ballistic solution for moving targets, greatly increasing the probability of a first-hit.

The SEOSS 400 also introduces three-axis stabilization with an angular position report accuracy of 0.03 mrad, a major improvement over previous SEOSS models. This ensures highly accurate targeting even when the tank is moving at speeds of 40 km/h or more. The system is built to endure harsh operational conditions, including fording operations up to 4 meters deep, and hosts all critical subsystems, including its computing unit, within a single ruggedized case.

Designed for future-proof integration, the SEOSS 400 is compatible with emerging European tank programs, such as the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) and the Main Armoured Tank of Europe (MARTE). Its modular architecture allows for upgrades including multi-mode tracking, enhanced ballistic algorithms, extended computing power, and even beyond line-of-sight capabilities. The system is suitable not only for MBTs but also for unmanned platforms and air defense applications, demonstrating its versatility in modern combat scenarios.

In conclusion, the SEOSS 400 represents a major leap forward in fire control technology. By combining high-resolution sensors, AI-driven automation, and advanced stabilization, Rheinmetall has created a system that significantly reduces the gunner’s workload while enhancing first-hit accuracy. As military forces modernize, the SEOSS 400 stands out as a critical component in the evolution of armored combat vehicles.