Challenger 2 & TES SolarΣShield Modification

[Would you like to see this in-game?]
  • Yes (Functional Modification)
  • Yes (Non-Fuctional Modification)
  • No
0 voters

Hello again👋👋

Today i would like to suggest the Rheinmetall SolarΣShield, pronounced SolarSigmaShield, for the Challenger 2 and/or TES Variant. This is not to be confused with the Saab Barracuda MCS.

What is SolarΣShield?

Rheinmetall’s SolarΣShield, pronounced solarsigmashield, is a an advanced multispectral camouflage system developed by Rheinmetall Canada. Its primary function is to provide effective concealment against a range of detection systems, such as infrared (IR), visual, radar, and thermal sensors, making it more difficult for adversaries to spot or target the vehicle. It operates similarly to the Saab Barracuda MCS (which we have in game although non-functional and only on certain parts of the MBT)

History of SolarΣShield and Challenger 2 Trials

Early development started in the early 2010s, as a response to increasing detection capabilities from infrared (IR), radar, and electromagnetic surveillance systems. The system was designed to address the growing need for better multispectral camouflage solutions for military vehicles.

Prototypes of the SolarΣShield system likely began to be field tested around 2015-2017. During these years, Rheinmetall would have focused on fine-tuning the system’s infrared masking, visual camouflage, and radar absorption capabilities.

In the years of 2017-2020 the SolarΣShield entered its prototype and trial phase where it was tested on various vehicles. One of the Vehicles being the Challenger 2 TES. SolarΣShield was shown at off at many defence shows such as IDEX 2017.

Post 2020, The Challenger 2 with SolarΣShield began being featured in official promotional material and demonstrations, indicating increasing interest in using the system in real-world deployments.

image

Main SolarΣShield Features

  • [Thermal (IR) signature: The system works to disguise the heat emitted by the vehicle, reducing its visibility to infrared detection systems.
Example

with and without SolarΣShield Daytime:
image

With and without SolarΣShield Nighttime
image

  • Visual camouflage: It also features a design that mimics the surrounding environment to make the vehicle harder to spot with the naked eye.
Example

Challenger 2 Trialing SolarΣShield
image

  • Radar blocking: In addition to visual and thermal concealment, SolarΣShield can also reduce the vehicle’s radar signature, making it less likely to be detected by radar-based systems.
Example

without SolarΣShield
image

With SolarΣShield
image

  • UV Adaptive, Dynamic: The system is capable of adjusting to different environmental conditions, terrains and seasons.

  • Lightweight and Durable: One of the key advantages of SolarΣShield is its lightweight construction, which doesn’t weigh down the vehicle or compromise its mobility. Additionally, it is built to withstand harsh combat environments, offering durability against wear and tear.

My Question to you…
My question to you is…

  • Should it be implemented functional or non-functional?
  • Should it be for the Challenger 2, Challenger 2 TES or both?
  • Should it be added as a completely new/separate vehicle?

Thank You,
CHARM 3.

image

Sources

Rheinmetall SolarΣShield
Rheinmetall SolarΣShield Video
Rheinmetall SolarΣShield Press Realease
Stedfast Solarshield (Canada)

4 Likes

We need thermal capes as fast as possible, it would greatly improve protection against infrared signature seekers anti-tank weapons plus adding a huge bump into the aesthetics.

thermal covers for tanks as a countermeasure against the fake KH38mt would be huge

2 Likes

I think this is the next step in terms of top tier mechanics. IR cloaking should be fully functional! +1

Yes true that would be great

Aside from IR concealment, I think the radar signature reduction is also quite interesting. In the future, if MMW radar-guided AGMs arrive and maps get big enough that radar GMTI is necessary for target acquisition, RCS reducing systems like this and Barracuda could be important in top tier balance.

Would be a great defence against brimstone, if brimstone wasnt intentionally neutered.

even if its function ended up not doing much it looks really nice

600f0446fe4e7a0cb4de854ca556f7f7d04bac73
See that “no” vote? I ate him. So choose wisely.