DSEI 2025: Trackfire ARES – Saab’s New C-UAS Remote Weapon Station
At DSEI 2025 Saab introduced a pair of new short range Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) systems – Nimbrix and Trackfire ARES. Nimbrix is a small, fire and forget missile designed to engage small and medium drones at short range. It is one of a number of similar systems showcased during the defence exposition in London.
Nimbrix is is around a meter long, weighs less than 3kg and has an engagement range of approximately 5km. Saab note that its equipped with a high explosive warhead but have not confirmed the type of seeker onboard. Speaking to Saab representatives at DSEI they emphasised that the system was developed to be cost-effective but a unit price hasn’t yet been publicly confirmed. The new missile has been in development since 2024, with the first testing taking place with 3D printed models.
Saab first introduced their Trackfire remote weapon station back in 2012. Last week at DSEI 2025 Saab showcased the latest variant, Trackfire ARES. Trackfire ARES – standing for Aerial Response, is a key component of Saab’s C-UAS offering.
Trackfire ARES primary weapon is the 30×113mm M230LF Bushmaster medium caliber chain cannon, which Saab say they have paired with proximity-fuzed ammunition. The remote weapon station also has a co-axial machine gun mounted, the example shown in London was a 7.62x51mm FN MAG general purpose machine gun. According to Saab “Trackfire Remote Weapon Station delivers pinpoint accuracy while firing on the move and can provide aerial coverage when mounted on naval vessels, land vehicles, or deployed in stationary defense positions.” Trackfire ARES could also integrate 12.7mm machine guns or automatic grenade launchers like the HK GMG or Mk19. In theory Trackfire ARES could also integrate Nimbrix organically or be coupled with a dedicated launcher as part of a network of effectors to counter drone threats.