Mangart Unnamed Turret Tests Conducted

Earlier this month, on the 7 June, the Slovenian Armed Forces commenced testing the Mangart 25, an advanced unmanned turret system designed by Valhalla Turrets for anti-air purposes. This system represents a meaningful upgrade in the country’s defense technology, aligning with global trends toward autonomous and remotely operated military assets.

The Mangart 25 turret system is an unmanned, remotely operated turret equipped with sophisticated sensors and weaponry. Its primary function is to provide robust air defense capabilities against a range of aerial threats, including drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft. The system’s advanced radar and electro-optical tracking technologies enable it to detect, track, and engage multiple targets simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive coverage and rapid response to potential threats. The manufacturer and Slovenian Armed Forces have not disclosed details about specific modules of the turret.

Cobra JLTV equipped with a Mangart 25 unmanned turret system. / Slovenian MoD

The system is also designed to operate under diverse environmental conditions, from urban settings to rugged terrains, making it a reliable asset for the Slovenian Armed Forces. Slovenia plans to equip a variety of vehicles with the system including LIV JRKBO Cobra 4×4 and MAN 8×8 tactical cargo vehicles.

The testing phase began in June 2024 and involved rigorous evaluation of the Mangart 25’s performance in real-world conditions. This includes live-fire exercises, system diagnostics, and operational drills to assess its accuracy, reliability, and overall effectiveness. The goal is to validate the system’s capabilities and ensure it meets the high standards required for modern military operations.

According to the Slovenian Ministry of Defense, these tests are crucial for identifying any potential issues and making necessary adjustments before the system is fully integrated into the armed forces. The feedback from this phase will inform further development and refinement, ensuring that the Mangart 25 is fully optimized for operational use. The lightweight Mangart 25 is an interesting proposition for militaries looking to modernize or up-gun existing platforms with an unmanned turret solution.