MUSS components: infrared jamming device (top), ultraviolet warning sensors (left and right) and smoke grenade dispenser (centre) on a German Puma IFV.
Multifunctional Self protection System (MUSS, German: Multifunktionales Selbstschutz-System) is a soft kill active protection system developed to protect military vehicles against guided anti-tank missiles.[1]
The German Pumainfantry fighting vehicle has been equipped with MUSS, after EADS was awarded a contract in 2006.[2][unreliable source?] Hensoldt delivered the 300th MUSS active protection system to the German Army on 19 September 2019.[3] A total of 342 MUSS systems were delivered by 2020.
In November 2021, Hensoldt announced the development of an improved version known as "MUSS 2.0".[5] The development of MUSS 2.0 was commissioned by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and includes optimizations in regards to size and weight while improving the capabilities of the missile warners and laser detectors. MUSS 2.0 can also detect second-generation laser rangefinders, laser beam riding missiles such as Kornet and can act as hostile fire indicator. It is compliant to the NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA).
Design
[edit]IR jammer mounted on Puma IFV.Front and left MUSS sensors on Puma turret.
MUSS consists of three main elements: ultraviolet sensors, consisting of a laser warner and a missile warner which detects incoming projectile, the computer, and the electronic or pyrotechnic countermeasures (for example an infrared jamming device).[2] When the sensors detect an incoming missile or a laser beam aimed at the vehicle, the computer activates the countermeasures. MUSS offers 360° protection with elevation up to 70° and can handle up to four threats at once.[2]
Depending on application the weight of the system can vary between 65 and 160 kg.[6]
