A Selection of Land capability options

The land battlespace is one of the most diverse and demanding environments in which ISTEC equipment operates. From vehicle-mounted systems to solutions supporting the dismounted warfighter, ISTEC land gunmounts are trusted across a wide spectrum of platforms and missions.

Our systems are in service globally on logistic vehicles, assault platforms, missile carriers, Special Forces vehicles, and armoured fleets; operating reliably from the extreme cold of Arctic regions to the blistering heat of desert theatres. Designed for durability, stability, and operational effectiveness, ISTEC mounts deliver dependable performance in the harshest conditions.

No two vehicles, missions, or operational requirements are ever truly the same. That is why every ISTEC land solution is engineered as a bespoke capability; tailored to the specific platform, threat environment, and customer need. The result is a gunmount system that integrates seamlessly, performs without compromise, and delivers exactly the capability required.

Weapon Stations

ISTEC ring mounts are engineered to deliver maximum operational capability with minimal operator effort. Designed as a complete weapon station, the system enables a single operator to maintain full 360° coverage with the weapon always positioned directly to their front; eliminating the need to stretch, strain, or reposition on extreme arcs.

The system is built around a fixed structural ring mounted to the vehicle roof or support cage. A forged traversing ring sits within this structure, providing smooth, continuous 360° traverse in either direction without interruption. The result is fluid engagement capability and consistent operator control in dynamic environments.

The traversing ring supports a modular baseplate arrangement, allowing integration of mission-specific enhancements. Options include armour protection rated from STANAG 4569 Level 1 through to Level 4, hatches, spare barrel stowage, personal weapon holders, ammunition box brackets, and other operator ancillaries. A dedicated weapon mounting interface is incorporated as standard.

ISTEC ring mounts are available in multiple diameters, most commonly:

  • 1080mm (GVA compliant)

  • 980mm (UK MOD approved) — offering an optimal balance of size, weight, functionality, and cost.

Weapon interfaces can be configured for a dedicated system; such as a 7.62mm MMG; or fitted with the ISTEC Universal Gun Mount, enabling rapid integration of platforms ranging from 5.56mm LMGs and 7.62mm MMGs to 12.7mm HMGs and 40mm GMGs.

Because no two vehicles or mission profiles are identical, every ISTEC ring mount is delivered as a bespoke solution; tailored precisely to the platform, threat environment, and operational requirement.

Swingarms

ISTEC swingarm mounts provide operators with an extended, stable firing platform for LMG and MMG systems; enhancing reach, flexibility, and control in exposed or elevated positions.

Commonly installed at commander or sentry stations, swingarms significantly increase engagement arcs compared to a fixed pintle, allowing the operator to cover a wider sector with smoother target acquisition. For even greater traverse capability, double swingarm configurations can be employed.

Each arm is fitted with the appropriate spigot receiver to accept the correct softmount interface; typically G3 or NATO tapered cone; ensuring secure integration and controlled weapon handling.

Compact and efficient, the swingarm solution delivers a genuine capability multiplier with minimal impact on vehicle space. Requiring less than 150mm² of mounting footprint, it provides enhanced firepower without compromising platform layout.

Lightweight bespoke single or double arm variants can also be designed and supplied to meet specific vehicle or mission requirements.

Weapon Mounts and Cradles

ISTEC machine gun mounts provide operators with a stable, recoil-managed platform for crew-served weapons; delivering control, accuracy, and durability in demanding operational environments.

At the heart of the system are buffered softmounts, into which the weapon is fitted. Integrated recoil and run-out mechanisms reduce peak recoil forces by up to 40% while preserving full weapon functionality and rate of fire. The result is improved handling, reduced structural stress on the host platform, and enhanced long-term reliability.

Softmounts interface with the parent platform via a range of proven spigot options, including G3 tapered, NATO 4796 tapered, US standard parallel, and dedicated minigun spigots. The receiver can be mounted directly to the vehicle structure, swing arm assemblies, or ring mount systems; providing flexible integration across multiple configurations.

For operators requiring maximum versatility, the ISTEC Universal Gun Mount (UGM) offers a scalable, multi-weapon solution in service with militaries worldwide. The UGM can accommodate weapon systems ranging from 5.56mm LMGs and 7.62mm MMGs through to 12.7mm HMGs, 40mm GMGs, and larger capabilities including 20mm cannons and 70mm organic FIRES systems.

As with all ISTEC solutions, each mount configuration is engineered to suit the specific platform and mission requirement; ensuring optimal capability without compromise.

 

Weapon sights and ancils

Operating across the full battlespace, ISTEC sight and optic mounts are engineered to seamlessly interface your programme’s chosen optics with its weapon systems — enhancing target acquisition, accuracy, and mission effectiveness.

From simple, robust clamp interfaces to advanced mounts incorporating integrated ballistic range quadrants, ISTEC solutions provide a durable and cost-effective method of upgrading a wide range of weapons.

Designed for operational reliability, our mounts maintain zero under recoil and harsh environmental conditions.

Interfaces can be configured to suit US Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny rails, NATO STANAG 4694 rails, or other tactical rail formats as required — ensuring compatibility with your selected optical suite.

For longer-range engagements, ISTEC quadrant range drums for 7.62mm, 12.7mm, and 40mm systems provide a rugged, power-free ballistic adjustment solution when paired with an appropriate optic.

This mechanical approach delivers dependable performance without reliance on electronic systems.

Tripods

Tripod-mounted weapon systems provide a highly stable, repeatable firing platform for both Medium Machine Guns (MMG) and Heavy Machine Guns (HMG); significantly enhancing accuracy, sustained fire capability, and operator control in both defensive and offensive roles.

Designed to support systems chambered in 7.62mm, 12.7mm and .308, ISTEC tripods act as a force multiplier by reducing recoil dispersion and allowing precise engagement over extended ranges. Compared to firing from a bipod or improvised support, tripod integration enables consistent shot placement, particularly during prolonged firing sequences where stability and thermal management are critical.

A key advantage of tripod deployment is the ability to incorporate traversing and elevating (T&E) mechanisms. These systems allow fine adjustment of fire, enabling controlled beaten zones, fixed lines, and repeatable target reference points. This is particularly valuable in defensive scenarios, where pre-determined arcs and interlocking fire plans can be established with a high degree of precision.

For 7.62mm MMG systems, ISTEC tripods provide the balance between mobility and stability; remaining lightweight enough for rapid deployment while offering substantial improvements in control and accuracy. When paired with optical sighting systems or fire control aids, they allow effective engagement at the upper limits of the weapon’s range envelope.

In the 12.7mm HMG role, tripod systems are engineered for increased robustness, managing significantly higher recoil forces and weapon mass. These heavier configurations ensure platform integrity during sustained fire, while still allowing controlled traverse and elevation. The result is a stable base capable of delivering accurate, high-impact fire against both personnel and light materiel targets at extended distances.

Despite their capability, modern tripod systems remain compact and transportable. Quick-release legs, adjustable height settings, and foldable designs allow for efficient carriage and rapid emplacement in the field. This makes them well suited to both static defensive positions and mobile operations where speed and adaptability are essential.

Ultimately, the tripod solution delivers a substantial uplift in weapon system performance. By combining stability, precision control, and modular adaptability, it enables operators to maximise the effectiveness of both MMG and HMG platforms without imposing significant logistical or spatial burdens.

 

66mm Smoke Grenade Dischargers

ISTEC’s 66mm Smoke Grenade Discharger System is fully qualified and in operational service in the UK, providing rapid, reliable obscuration capability when it matters most.

The system comprises of banks of 66mm discharger tubes, a junction box (where required depending on vehicle architecture), a sealed Fire Control Unit (FCU), and all associated interconnecting harnesses. Discharger banks can be tailored to meet specific platform and mission requirements — from two banks of two tubes, through to four banks of three or four tubes.

The FCU is fully sealed and EMC protected, ensuring dependable performance in harsh environments. Clear visual status indication is provided via integrated LED arrays: green LEDs confirm when individual tubes are armed, while yellow LEDs indicate when reloading is required.

Robust, adaptable, and platform-integrated, the ISTEC 66mm system delivers dependable defensive screening capability tailored to the operator’s needs.

Vehicle Extras

Beyond primary weapon mounts, ISTEC designs and delivers a comprehensive range of ancillary systems that enhance the capability, safety, and efficiency of land vehicle platforms.

Developed in line with military standards and tailored to specific vehicle architectures, our ancillary solutions integrate seamlessly to support both operator effectiveness and platform survivability. Capabilities include:

  • Hatch Systems – Armoured and non-armoured variants, engineered for protection, ergonomics, and ease of operation.

  • Ammunition Stowage – Secure, accessible storage solutions for crew-served weapons, optimised for rapid reload and safe retention.

  • Personal Weapon Stowage – Robust mounting and retention systems to safely secure individual weapons without compromising cabin space.

  • Hot Barrel Stowage – Purpose-designed containment systems for safe handling and storage of hot machine gun barrels during sustained fire operations.

Each system is engineered to complement the host vehicle, recognising that no two platforms or operational roles are identical. As with all ISTEC products, ancillary equipment is delivered as a bespoke solution; enhancing operational capability while maintaining integration integrity and minimal footprint.