We’re focused on our goal to deliver cost-effective, well-executed, operationally ready solutions while zeroing in on customers’ exact needs and requirements: Eric Brown of Rafael Systems Global Sustainment, LLC

“Our primary tasks are to “Americanize” Rafael’s products along three lines of effort:  IP/Data Storage; Engineering Services; and Manufacturing.” 

RSGS is a US-based, proxy-led, FOCI-mitigated company supporting Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The company’s mission is to serve the North American market and deliver tested and proven technical solutions along with sustainment support that closes capability gaps for the U.S. Government and critical commercial sector enterprises.

RSGS was founded in 2019, and is headquartered in Reston, Virginia.

The Silicon Review reached out to Eric Brown, Chief Technology Officer, Rafael Systems Global Sustainment, LLC, and here’s what he had to say.

Interview Highlights

Q. Please tell us about the circumstances or events that led to the founding of Rafael Systems Global Sustainment, LLC (RSGS)?

We are both a products and services company organized across four business units: Spike Family of Missiles; C4ISR Systems; Land & Naval Systems; and Air and Missile Defense/Counter UAS. We market select defense and security products in the US to fill operational gaps within the Department of Defense, across the other Federal Agencies and the States, and to commercial customers. We also provide required support services to a variety of Rafael programs for existing contracts. Our primary tasks are to “Americanize” Rafael’s products along three lines of effort:  IP/Data Storage; Engineering Services; and Manufacturing. Our primary role is to facilitate the application, production, employment, and support of Rafael’s combat proven products and technologies in the United States.

Q. Could you elaborate on the specific technical solutions that RSGS offers to address capability gaps for the U.S. Government and critical commercial sector enterprises?

RSGS assists the USG by bridging several capability gaps. These include the SPIKE Precision Tactical Guided Missile Family, the Medium Caliber Weapons System, the TROPHY Active Protection System, and the Drone Dome Counter-UAS defense system. The SPIKE Family’s 5th generation electro-optical missiles provide unparalleled performance, enhanced lethality, survivability, and deterrence to the warfighter from land, sea, and air platforms. The Medium Caliber Weapon System provides increased lethality, accuracy, and range with its 30mm Samson turret while enhancing the mobility and survivability of the Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle. The TROPHY Active Protection System provides exceptional protection for static and maneuvering armored forces in combat environments. The Drone Dome end-to-end C-UAS solution combines 360° coverage with soft and hard-kill capabilities, a quick response time, and a high engagement success rate while minimizing collateral damage.

Q. Could you discuss any partnerships or collaborations that RSGS engages in to enhance its mission of serving the North American market?

An example of a successful partnership is our efforts to support Oshkosh Defense. The Oshkosh and Rafael proposal to integrate the Samson turret on the Stryker Double V Hull won the Army contract to produce this modified version for three US Army Brigades with options for up to six additional Brigades. RSGS provides a US-based interface at both Aberdeen Proving Ground and Joint Base Lewis McCord to enhance Oshkosh’s test and field maintenance support which reduces support costs, assists in communicating requirements and concerns to Rafael engineers directly, and represents Rafael when they are unable to be present. RSGS often provides the first response to emerging turret issues and assists both Oshkosh and the Rafael MCWS team in better understanding technical issues and in providing direct feedback for turret-related concerns.

Q. Could you provide examples of successful projects or initiatives where RSGS has effectively closed capability gaps for its clients?

In addition to our work with commercial partners, we have signed a Basic Ordering Agreement with the Joint Munitions Command and McAllester Army Ammunition plant to jointly advance production of the cutting-edge Spike missile system in the United States under their Public Private Partnership program. The U.S. Army leverages these partnerships to preserve the Organic Industrial Base and ensure Soldiers have what they need, when they need it. The 5th Generation Spike electro-optical guided missile system, renowned for its precision, versatility, and reliability, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The collaborative efforts between JMC, MCAAP, Rafael, and RSGS will not only provide a critical capability to our Warfighters, but also enhances and maintains critical skillsets to meet the Army of 2030 and beyond.

Q. Will RSGS be expanding, bringing on any new technologies that we should be aware of?

Our parent company Rafael is synonymous with Dynamic Defense, Daring Innovation, and Technological Ingenuity. For over 70 years, the company has pioneered advances in defense, cyber and security solutions for air, land, sea, and space. Our innovations are based on extensive operational experience and understanding evolving combat requirements. They enable the rapid development of effective solutions for complex battle-space challenges. We strive to develop solutions faster than the pace of the ever-changing threats by enabling a dynamic response to the operational needs on the modern battlefield. We are focused on our goal: To deliver cost-effective, well-executed, operationally ready solutions while zeroing in on customers’ exact needs and requirements. 

Q. Tell us; what’s next for Rafael Systems Global Sustainment, LLC?

Our growth and evolution will mature around our “Americanization” Lines of Effort.  We look forward to further developing our partnership for the “hot” integration of our Spike missiles. We will continue to work with our fellow subsidiaries, like C4ATS in Orlando and PVP in Torrance, to supply the US manufactured components for our product assembly. We anticipate providing IP storage and software customization of the USMC Medium-Range Intercept Capability in support of the RTX and Rafael joint venture and for the Trophy APS. Manufacturing products in the US remains a top priority for us. We are excited to be partnered with Parsons, a leading global service provider, to offer the Drone Dome System as a potential solution for the USMC Installation C-sUAS (I-CsUAS) competition. Additionally, we look to partner and play a key role in offering the TAMIR missile as a more effective, reduced cost solution for the Army’s Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 opportunity. The MRIC program should become a model for the Army to follow for IFPC 2.

Eric Brown | CTO

Eric Brown is a proven senior leader and manager with over 25 years of analytical expertise supporting global operations, budgets, policy, and capability development. Eric has successfully led diverse workforces in high-paced, demanding environments in the Department of Defense. He is a graduate of Morgan State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering and the Naval Postgraduate School with a Master of Science Degree in Operations Research and Systems Analysis. Eric is a subject matter expert in requirements-based capability development and the Planning, Programming, Budget, and Execution process. He’s a strategic minded leader that leverages analytics and his technological expertise to deliver advanced technologies, and resourced informed decisions that translate into effective cost saving solutions.

“In addition to our work with commercial partners, we have signed a Basic Ordering Agreement with the Joint Munitions Command and McAllester Army Ammunition plant to jointly advance production of the cutting-edge Spike missile system in the United States under their Public Private Partnership program.”