A Selection of Maritime capability options
The maritime battlespace is one of the most unforgiving environments in which ISTEC equipment operates. From major surface combatants to fast patrol craft and specialist platforms, the range of ISTEC Maritime systems can be found in service across naval and security fleets worldwide.
Engineered to perform in corrosive saltwater conditions, high humidity, extreme temperatures, and constant vibration, ISTEC equipment delivers reliable capability at sea; whether deployed in Arctic waters, tropical littorals, or open-ocean operations.
From constabulary and force protection roles to high-intensity naval operations, ISTEC Maritime solutions provide robust, mission-ready performance where reliability is non-negotiable.
Maritime Weapon Stations
Designed with the operator in mind, ISTEC weapon stations provide up to 360-degree capability; keeping weapon capability aimed directly where required, eliminating the need to stretch or strain during critical moments.
At the heart of the system is a sturdy metal ring, securely fixed to the platform. This is complemented by a forged traversing ring, allowing for smooth and continuous 360-degree movement in either direction, ensuring seamless operation unless physical arc stops are introduced.
The traversing ring serves as a versatile platform for an array of options mounted on a robust baseplate. Users can equip their stations with:
- Armour Panels: Designed to withstand threat levels from STANAG 4569 Level 1 to Level 4
- Hatches
- Spare Barrel Holders
- Personal Weapon Holders
- Spare Ammunition Box Holders
Additionally, the baseplate features a weapon mounting interface, enhancing adaptability for various operational needs.
Weapon interfaces are tailored to requirements; whether it’s a single weapon type like the 7.62mm MMG or the ISTEC Universal Gun Mount that accommodates an impressive range of weapon options, including:
- 5.56mm LMG
- 7.62mm MMGs
- 12.7mm HMG
- 40mm GMGs
The ISTEC maritime ring mounts are frequently deployed on versatile maritime platforms, such as hovercraft and landing craft, proving their reliability and efficiency in demanding environments.
Swingarms
The ISTEC arm mounts provide the operator with an extended stable platform to fire a crew served machine gun from.
Often fitted to pedestals on the side of capital ships or conning towers of submarines, the swingarms offer an increased range of arcs to the operator than from just a fixed pintle.
Each arm is fitted with the appropriate spigot receiver which is able to mount the correct softmount, normally either the G3 or NATO tapered cone.
The swingarm solution offers a capability multiplier for a relatively small cost and minimal footprint. The swingarm needs less than 150mm sq of real estate to mount.
Pedestals and Pintles
Designed to support pintle and swingarm mounts at the optimal operating height, they ensure crews can deploy weapons effectively from almost any platform configuration.
Short pedestals are ideal for bulwarks.
Full height pedestals are designed to be deck mounted. Available in both fixed and adjustable height variants, they combine simplicity with exceptional strength. Engineered primarily for 7.62mm machine guns, they are equally capable of supporting 12.7mm heavy machine guns, delivering dependable performance under demanding operational conditions.
For enhanced survivability, the pedestals can also accommodate armour shields, providing additional protection for the operator without compromising stability or accessibility. Robust, adaptable, and built for operational reality, ISTEC Pedestals maximise both capability and crew confidence.
Mounts and Buffered Mounts
ISTEC maritime 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.
The UGM can also be fitted with a forward shield arm, offering forward armour protection to the operator.
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.
Flip-over mounts and minigun mounts give the naval warfighter optimum capability in the harsh maritime environment.
This mechanical approach delivers dependable performance without reliance on electronic systems.
