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07 Sep 23. Aimpoint, the leading manufacturer and innovator of red dot sighting technology, has been chosen to deliver mini red dot sights to the Alternative Individual Weapon System, designated L403A1 to UK MOD, via our exclusive UK distributor Edgar Brothers.
The AIW will consist of three elements including the rifle system L403A1, the optic system L900A1, and the training system. As part of the optic system, Aimpoint will supply the ACRO® P-2 red dot sight.
Built to exceed the requirements of the users, the ACRO series sights have been tested and proven to withstand the extreme shock, vibration, temperatures, and material stresses generated by firing over 20,000 rounds of .40 S&W ammunition. Primarily designed for use on handguns, the ACRO next generation can also be mounted on carbines, shotguns and hunting rifles or utilized as a backup sight on magnified scopes and thermal imagers. These versatile optics are night vision compatible and are the ultimate solution for extremely rugged, low-profile, compact sighting needs.
“We at Aimpoint are extremely proud to be part of this Hunter project that pushes the limits of innovation for the modern personal weapon system. We trust our distributor Edgar Brother to bring the system into service alongside DE&S in a very professional way, and that our product will contribute to the success of the AIW by enhancing soldiers’ capabilities to effectively perform their mission. “ – Erik Jeppsson, Sales & Marketing Director Aimpoint
As the Prime Contractor and UK distributors, Edgar Brothers will supply the equipment to UK MOD.
07 Sep 23. Poland Unveils HAASTA Prototype for Drone-on-Drone Warfare. The Polish government hasrolled out a new armed, unmanned aerial vehicle concept aimed at countering smaller drones, known as the HAASTA, to kick off the annual MSPO defense trade show.
In the announcement, the government stated the design draws on “insights gained from recent years of combat operations” — a not-so-veiled reference to the Ukraine conflict, which Poland has been studying intensely. Design of the system follow a new standard, STANAG 4703, which sets airworthiness requirements for fixed-wing light unmanned aircraft.
Designed through the Łukasiewicz Institute of Aviation in cooperation with Italian firm EuroTech, HAASTA has a wingspan of just under 13 feet, is 9.5 feet long, and can carry a payload up to 77 pounds inside its bay. A 20 HP ICE-electric hybrid engine powers the design, which claims speeds of 74 to 170 miles per hour, with and an altitude over four miles high.
The system is designed to be launched from an air launcher and lands on a skid or gliding parachute, rather than requiring traditional airport infrastructure. The operating radius on paper is 30 km with standard radio, 80 km in a mesh system, or 170 km (LoS link with directional antennas). If connected to a satellite, the range is limited to fuel — with a maximum endurance of 10 hours.
The drone’s main task will be hunting for low velocity flying Shahed-type drones (the kind used heavily by Russia in Ukraine), searching for combustion engine emissions, and after positive identification, destroying the enemy target with its underbelly mounted 5.45mm machine gun. In the future, it may be possible to arm the design with a 7.62mm or 12.7mm UKM with ammunition belt or alternatively with two 20kg free fall bombs in fuselage.
However, there could be other uses for the system. The designers claim the ability to penetrate air defenses, operate deep in enemy territory and perform ISR missions, as well as the potential to swarm in order to confuse anti-aircraft defenses. And the design was shown off in its “fighter” variation, Łukasiewicz sees potential civilian versions as well, which could be used for monitoring long distance linear infrastructure, cargo transport, or photogrammetry.
According to Institute of Aviation representatives, the aircraft has successfully passes a series of flight tests. While still in the concept demonstration phase, designers are hoping to attract customers for the future. (Source: UAS VISION)
05 Sep 23. Kawasaki prepares P-1 replacement project. Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) has instituted a project team to develop a ‘future fixed-wing patrol aircraft’ to replace its P-1 maritime patrol aircraft. The aircraft is currently operational with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
A company spokesperson told Janes that the project team for the ‘future fixed-wing aircraft’ was instituted in April 2023 with “expectation of the deployment by the Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD)/JMSDF in the 2040s”.
The specifications of the new aircraft are under consideration. According to KHI, the company is waiting for the “concept of future fixed-wing aircraft operations” to be issued by the MoD. A Japan MoD spokesperson confirmed to Janes that the plan for the future aircraft is still under consideration.
The P-1 is a major component of the JMSDF’s maritime airborne patrol, anti-ship, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. According to Janes
(Source: Janes)
05 Sep 23. Immervision Awarded $5.7m Contract from DRDC to Develop Panoramic Imaging Systems. Immervision, the world’s leading developer of advanced vision systems combining optics, image processing, and sensor fusion technology, is pleased to announce the award of a $5.7m contract from Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) for the design and development of panoramic imaging components and systems. This contract underscores Immervision’s industry leading expertise and commitment to creating solutions to see beyond human vision that offer an extended field of view in all environments, vital for situational awareness and operational effectiveness.
“Our technology offers wide-angle vision systems featuring Smart Pixel Management, which holds significant potential across diverse applications,” explains Alessandro Gasparini, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Immervision. “I am proud of what our team has accomplished and look forward to our partnership with the DRDC where we will continue to revolutionize how we perceive and interact with our environment.”
Immervision has been involved in vision system designs for highly complex applications such as aerospace cameras, stratospheric balloons as well as commercial applications from video surveillance, action cameras, automotive, IoT to mobile phones. The unparalleled quality provided by Immervisions panoramic imaging technology, components and systems have had a profound impact globally in products innovation and the development of new solutions for complex imaging challenges.
About Immervision
With over 20 years of innovation, Immervision creates solutions that see beyond human vision. Its Deep Seeing technology and renowned experts in wide-angle optical design and image processing enable smart devices with superhuman eyes to capture high quality visual and contextual data. The company invents, customizes, and licenses wide-angle lenses and imaging software technology for AI, machine vision and user applications, from capture to display, in the mobile, automotive, robotics, security, and other industrial and consumer product industries. For more information: www.immervision.com. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
06 Sep 23. Russia Successfully Tests C-UAS Laser. Russia conducted successful field tests of a laser gun, during which it destroyed several drones of various types, an informed source told Sputnik.
“Successful tests of a combat laser designed to destroy unmanned aerial vehicles were carried out at one of Russia’s military training grounds. The laser gun demonstrated high efficiency in destroying UAVs in the near zone,” the source said.
It said the combat laser of the infrared spectrum ensured physical destruction of drones, in particular, burning the aerodynamic surfaces of the vehicles or burning their body along with on-board equipment.
“Drones of both aircraft and quadrocopter types were destroyed by the laser,” the source said.
Russia has invested heavily in military lasers, ranging from the Zadira, designed to incinerate enemy drones at distances of up to 5 km, to the Peresvet, a strategic laser platform designed to disable enemy spacecraft at altitudes of up to 1,500 km, as well as enemy drones at long ranges.
Rounding out the trio is the Sokol-Eshelon, a Soviet-era anti-satellite laser weapon system consisting of an airborne laser mounted on a modified Il-76 transport aircraft known as the Beriev A-60 Laser Laboratory. (Source: UAS VISION/Sputnik)
05 Sep 23. Poland Becomes First International LTAMDS Customer. The Polish Minister of National Defense, Mariusz Blaszczak, approved a Letter of Acceptance with the U.S. Army to expand its WISLA air and missile defense capabilities with the introduction of 12 Lower-Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensors, or LTAMDS, and the addition of 48 Patriot® launchers. The agreement sets the Foreign Military Sale into motion and makes Poland the first international customer to add the advanced 360-degree LTAMDS radar being built by Raytheon, an RTX business, to their air and missile defense architecture.
he acquisition supports the Polish Government’s WISLA Phase 2 program, building on the nearly completed first phase which culminated with the delivery and testing of four Patriot fire units. Raytheon completed its delivery of the last two fire units to Poland earlier this year and the systems will complete System Integration and Check-Out, or SICO, in October.
“Poland’s expansion of its WISLA program will fortify the country’s security and defense against a range of air and missile threats,” said Tom Laliberty, president of Land & Air Defense Systems at Raytheon. “With the introduction of LTAMDS, Poland will become the first country after the US to complement the combat-proven Patriot with LTAMDS which provides extended range and full, 360-degree coverage to detect and defend against complex, highly coordinated, multi-threat attack scenarios.”
Raytheon’s successful deliveries for WISLA Phase 1 were due in large part to the collaborative partnerships with Polish industry. Nine Polish suppliers contributed various system elements and components to the Patriot system and are now part of Raytheon’s Global Supply Chain. Participation will continue and expand with an offset program for Phase 2, including opportunities to support LTAMDS. Five Polish industry partners, all members of the PGZ group, will receive technology, equipment, and training to enable them to produce and maintain components of LTAMDS. It is envisioned they will become part of the LTAMDS global supply chain.
Patriot is the only combat-proven ground based air defense capability available in the world today to defeat advanced long-range cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and a full spectrum of air-breathing threats. It is the backbone of air defense for 19 countries.
LTAMDS is the next generation air and missile defense radar for the U.S. Army. A 360-degree, Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, powered by Raytheon-manufactured Gallium Nitride, LTAMDS provides dramatically more performance against the range of threats, from manned and unmanned aircraft to cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and hypersonics. Raytheon is advancing the development of LTAMDS for the U.S. Army, with all six radars under contract having completed production and are undergoing simultaneous testing at various government and Raytheon test sites, conducting integration and test activities in parallel. (Source: ASD Network)
07 Sep 23. U.S. Navy awards RTX and Elbit Systems of America a $16m contract for improved F/A-18 pilot helmet mounted display systems. Collins Elbit Vision Systems (CEVS) – a joint venture between Collins Aerospace, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, and Elbit Systems of America – has been awarded a contract by the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division for development, engineering, logistics and test support of the Improved Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System used in Block III F/A-18E/F and E/A-18G aircraft. With this award, CEVS is formally introducing the Zero-G Helmet Mounted Display System+ (HMDS+)™. The Zero-G HMDS+™ will provide an augmented view of the battle space inside the pilot’s helmet to allow for faster decision making, increasing survivability and effectiveness. “The team followed a new development process that incorporated early and continuous pilot input to field the best solution. The result is an innovative and adaptable HMDS that will follow a long, successful line of fielded HMDS from CEVS,” said CEVS Co-General Manager Jeff Hoberg. In addition to providing improved capability, the balanced and ultra-lightweight design of the Zero-G HMDS+™ will significantly decrease the physiological strain pilots experience. For the last 30 years, CEVS has been at the forefront of developing and delivering solutions that keep pilots safe and battle ready. To learn more about the cutting-edge capabilities and benefits to pilots from the Zero-G HMDS+™, visit collinsaerospace.com/ZeroG.
05 Sep 23. HENSOLDT will present its wide range of sensor technologies for the air, sea and land domains at DSEi 2023. In London, HENSOLDT will present sensor solutions for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, as well as sensors to improve protection of friendly forces and operational effectiveness. For more information, please visit HENSOLDT at ExCel London, Stand: H6-425.
In the land domain, HENSOLDT will showcase its advanced solutions for armoured vehicles with the “Multi Utility Vehicle” (MUV), including innovative optronic systems such as MUSS (Multifunctional Self-Defence System) and SETAS (See Through Armour System). The solution “Ceretron” by HENSOLDT combines sensors, fuses their data streams, evaluates and processes them in seconds and provides an AI-supported operational picture to the crew, thus enabling them to make smarter decisions even faster.
HENSOLDT’s impressive portfolio of advanced active and passive land radar sensors is complemented by the innovative “TwinSens” sensor solution. To enable end users to secure their territory against attacks from hostile missiles and aircraft, HENSOLDT has combined its TRML-4D active air defence radar with its world-leading “Twinvis” passive radar. This powerful solution protects air defence systems against hostile interference by reducing active emission times and thus the electromagnetic footprint detectable by hostile forces.
HENSOLDT will also present its portable battlefield radar solutions from the SPEXER family, who are designed for delivering early and precise detection data with associated target classification as a basis for engagement of asymmetric threats. In addition to HENSOLDT’s system technologies, a selection of weapon sights will also be on display.
In the air domain, HENSOLDT will present its airborne multi-mission surveillance radar “PrecISR”, along with other sensors such as the “ARGOS” II electro-optical gimbal, which can be seamlessly integrated into the Xplorer Mission System. With “MissionGrid”, HENSOLDT shows a scalable mission system that takes full advantage of the rich feature set provided by the company’s radar and electro-optic sensor range. Combined with data fusion and mission management software, “MissionGrid” provides a capability increase that enables a single aircraft to fly multiple missions.
In the maritime domain, HENSOLDT will exhibit the “SharpEye” range of 2D navigation radars and Integrated Navigation Bridge System (INBS). These systems are used extensively by the UK Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. HENSOLDT will also be presenting a range of multi-sensor optronic masts for submarines such as the “OMS 150” and “OMS 300”.
Safety forms the basis for a sustainable future – HENSOLDT is equally committed to both. The company takes its responsibility as a sustainable, local business very seriously and has set itself ambitious goals for emissions avoidance, resource-conserving business and responsible corporate governance. For this reason, HENSOLDT supports numerous initiatives aimed at sustainable investments in local communities, education, employees and the environment.
05 Sep 23. Excelerate Technology partners with Digital Global Systems (DGS) with an exclusive distribution agreement to take drone detection systems worldwide. Excelerate Technology, a leading global hybrid connectivity provider and expert systems integrator to governments, civil defence agencies, and emergency services has joined forces with Digital Global Systems (DGS), a next-gen software platform for wireless deployments that characterises the Radio Frequency environment across multiple dimensions, as its preferred distribution partner for the DGS CLEARSKY™ Drone Threat Management (DTM) system.
The partnership enables DGS to provide its vehicle-mounted and fixed location DGS CLEARSKY™ technology to customers to assist in detecting drones quickly, anywhere from 70 MHz to 6 GHz, without relying on a drone signature library.
Fernando Murias, Chairman and CEO of DGS, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with Excelerate. They are a credible and respected sales partner who will help to bring our leading-edge drone threat management solution to the market.”
DGS CLEARSKY™ provides anomalous signal detection and multiple geolocation techniques for any signal of interest in the 70 MHz to 6 GHz range. Anomalous signals include:
- Unintentional interference
- Intentional signal interruption (jamming)
- Communications devices encroaching on a protected area
- UAVs (aka “drones”)
CLEARSKY™ combines machine learning and a real-time analysis of signal characteristics to rapidly detect drones and other anomalous activity without the reliance on a library of known drone signals. Additionally, CLEARSKY™ is frequency agnostic, meaning transmissions can be detected and classified outside of frequency bands where drones typically operate. This ensures that drones that have been modified to operate outside the regulated frequencies can be detected.
Excelerate’s solutions provide reliable communication and enhanced situational awareness even where no terrestrial networks are available, are congested, or have been severely compromised. With an extensive reach that spans varied industries and geographies, Excelerate is renowned for delivering solutions that are fit for purpose, user-friendly, and address the unique demands of each region. This global presence serves as a testament to the company’s unparalleled adaptability and dedication to creating a safer and more connected world.
DGS’s Drone Threat Management (DTM) system complements Excelerate’s offering by detecting, classifying, and locating drones anywhere in the swept spectrum (70 MHz to 6 GHz). Further features include its ability to classify UAVs in fewer than two seconds, integrating with third-party systems, such as cameras and radar; and the use of patented geolocation techniques to provide better accuracy and detect new and unknown drones without reliance on a signature library.
Additionally, DGS technology offers spectrum optimization for enhanced communications by delivering RF environmental data to 5G infrastructure. This allows for ultra-reliable and low-latency applications while paving the way for true dynamic spectrum sharing.
David Savage, founder, and CEO of Excelerate said: “This partnership with DGS is an exciting one with combined experience spanning many years in delivering ubiquitous connectivity and secure solutions between the two companies. The partnership will form part of our global partner programme and will enable us as a company to scale up our drone offering. This is particularly significant for our collaboration with customers in policing and counter-terror, critical infrastructure, and secure facilities, enhancing their capability to identify and respond effectively to unauthorised or potentially harmful drone activities.”
The partnership is complete, and the two companies will demonstrate their combined expertise on stand J130 at the Emergency Services Show in Birmingham, UK from 19th – 20th September 2023.
05 Sep 23. Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has demonstrated its Australian made directed energy and kinetic counter-drone capabilities in a field environment, in front of an international audience.
This demonstration is a watershed moment for EOS and for directed energy technology in Australia, evidenced by the presence of potential export customers from Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South East Asia.
The testing was the first of its kind in Australia, with EOS successfully engaging moving drones from a moving vehicle with the ‘Slinger’ kinetic weapon system. The testing involved destroying drones with machine guns out to 500 metres and lasers beyond 1000 metres, with a very high level of accuracy.
Importantly, these capabilities are being designed and manufactured in Australia, by Australians, using an extensive Australian supply chain.
Executive Vice President of EOS Defence Systems, Matt Jones, said, “I am enormously proud of the achievements of the team at EOS, with testing exceeding expectations on all counter-drone systems”.
“Drones are a threat in military and civilian environments right now. Counter-drone capabilities, like those developed by EOS, are becoming increasingly essential, and will save the lives of our allies, or perhaps our own Defence Force personnel in the future.”
These EOS counter-drone systems are evidence of genuinely sovereign capabilities meeting the needs of government and Defence, including countering contemporary and emerging threats, such as those in Ukraine.
Mr Jones said “EOS’ directed energy capability has significant export potential, adding to Australia’s strategic weight and the reputation of Australian defence industry”
The directed energy capability also demonstrates EOS’s capabilities in an area of priority for the Defence Advanced Strategic Capability Accelerator (ASCA), and the focus of AUKUS Pillar II on electronic warfare.
Initially designed for export, these cutting-edge capabilities have generated interest from potential customers in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and South-east Asia.
04 Sep 23, BEL and IAI sign MoU to cooperate on short range air defence/C-UAS technology development. Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have signed an MoU for co-operation in addressing India’s requirements in the domain of short range air defence systems.
The MoU was signed by Mr K V Suresh Kumar, Director (Marketing), BEL, and Mr Avi Elisha, VP and General Manager, Missile Systems Division, IAI, in the presence of Mr Bhanu Prakash Srivastava, CMD, BEL, in Bengaluru.
According to a joint press release:
“The partnership marks yet another significant step towards cementing the synergy between the two companies which have a long history of association. BEL and IAI are engaged in several joint development / production / product support programmes for the Indian defence forces.”
The MoU aims at leveraging IAI and BEL’s capabilities and is within the umbrella of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ policies of the Government of India.
Bhanu Prakash Srivastava, CMD, BEL, said: “BEL considers IAI, Israel, as a key strategic partner. This MoU is envisaged to boost the co-operation between the two companies in the field of short range air defence systems. It will empower the Indian industry to make significant contributions towards equipping our forces with state-of-the-art short range Air defence systems.” Boaz Levy, IAI’s President and CEO, said: “BEL and IAI have a successful partnership in the field of air defence in India. Together, we are providing the Indian armed forces with high-end air defence capabilities that meet their high-end operational requirements on one hand and ‘Make in India’ requirements on the other. Hence, it is only natural that we expand this cooperation to the short range air defence domain.” For more information: www.iai.co.il
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
31 Aug 23. US Navy among armed forces testing high-energy laser capabilities. Directed-energy weapons designed to counter incoming threats are favoured by US Navy Admiral John Aquilino, according to a report by Defense News, Aquilino: “I’m very encouraged by the high-energy laser capability that’s being experimented with and utilized,” he said during the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Emerging Technologies Conference in Washington. “There’s a few of them on a couple of our ships, to be able to blind, dazzle and kill.”
The weapons come mainly in two forms: high-energy laser and high-power microwave. The former focuses a beam or beams of energy to blind, cut or inflict heat damage on a target. The latter unleashes waves of energy that fry or overwhelm electronic components, says the report.
Expenditure by the US and other nations on directed-energy weapons have increased over recent decades. The Pentagon for the past three years has spent an average USD1 bn on development says Defense News, and requested USD669 m in fiscal 2023 for unclassified research, testing and evaluation and at least USD345 m for unclassified procurement, according to the Congressional Research Service.
“The Navy in the past adopted Lockheed Martin’s High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance, or HELIOS, and the in-house Optical Dazzling Interdictor Navy, or ODIN, to tackle drones, small boats and intelligence-gathering systems. Both have been installed aboard destroyers.
“Other services are tinkering with directed energy, as well. The Army in January tapped Epirus for prototypes of its high-power microwave kit known as Leonidas. The deal was worth USD66 m. It also used Lockheed’s Mobile Radio Frequency-Integrated UAS Suppressor, or MORFIUS, to take out drones in a June demonstration.
“Aquilino’s remit includes China and North Korea, as well as allies Australia, Japan and South Korea. The Indo-Pacific is home to more than half the world’s population, some of its biggest ports and a handful of its largest militaries,” says the report. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
31 Aug 23. Robin Radar and Exavision demonstrate ‘affordable multi-layered counter drone protection.’ Robin Radar Systems reports its IRIS drone detection radar is now compatibility with the Exavision’s NEMOSYS-XR-HD counter-UAV optronic solution. The companies successfully demonstrated collaboration to provide multi-layered CUAS protection using two accurate, compatible systems, working in tandem to deliver a low false-alarm rate for end-users.
The companies say it is easy to connect IRIS with Exavision’s GUI, and simple to configure and operate the system. Both technologies are mission-proven in multi-sensor-multi-effector drone detection and defence systems worldwide in demanding scenarios.
The aim is to give government authorities and other end-users access to affordable CUAS capability; without significant investment in multi-sensor integrated systems.
The companies plan to test the system’s capability in the coming months.
According to Robin Radar, IRIS combines smart software and affordable radar for drone detection and tracking. With 360-degrees azimuth coverage and elevation coverage of 60-degrees, IRIS is designed to provide early warning of approaching drones.
Exavision’s NEMOSYS HD comprises a range of high definition optronic solutions designed designed for extra-long-range surveillance effective night and day. For more information visit:
www.robinradar.com: www.exavision.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
31 Aug 23. Israel Innovation Authority awards Airobotics USD540,000 grant for counter drone development. Israel Innovation Authority has awarded Ondas Holdings a grant worth NIS 2.1m (approximately USD540,000) to support further development of its Iron Drone Raider counter-uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) owned by its wholly-owned subsidiary Airobotics.
Earlier this year, Airobotics acquired the assets of Iron Drone, an Israel-based company specializing in the development of autonomous counter-drone systems. The Iron Drone Raider uses AI technologies to identify and intercept hostile drones and can be integrated into a variety of drone detection systems. The Raider physically intercepts small, hostile drones using an incredibly swift autonomous drone equipped with interception mechanisms and combined with a highly automated docking station capable of simultaneously addressing several hostile drone targets. The grant funds a development program that aims to enhance the system’s capabilities for intercepting hostile drones in civil environments while minimizing collateral damage caused by GPS jamming and falling objects. For more information visit: www.ondas.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
30 Aug 23. Frontex study finds ‘added value and market potential’ for HAPS in high level and specific use cases. Frontex has just released a nine-month technological assessment report on the potential of high-altitude pseudo-satellites (HAPS) to enhance law-enforcement operations, border surveillance and communication.
Main findings of the report
The report looks at the technological readiness, assessing the technology of HAPS as such, but also its potential use to help tackle challenges faced by Frontex and other members of the EU Innovation Hub for Internal Security.
The authors of the report looked at particular case studies to see how HAPS can be used in such activities as earth observation, telecommunication and navigation, search and rescue missions, remote sensing and operations and provision of ad-hoc telecom and satellite navigation (GNSS).
The study includes the following elements:
- an overview of balloons and airships (LTA – lighter-than-air) and with fixed-wing aircraft (HTA – heavier-than-air);
- an analysis of individual HAPS technologies, including a comparison of the platforms, payload analysis, technological challenges, infrastructure demands, and regulatory barriers.
Conclusions
The study concluded that HAPS have a real potential within each of the three identified high level use cases linked to the activities of Frontex and other members of the EU Innovation Hub on Internal Security, entailing Earth Observation, Telecommunication, and Navigation . Whilst the level of research and development varies across the three use cases – as the navigation use case proved to be less of a driver for development compared to Earth observation and telecommunication – there is an extensive added value in leveraging HAPS for each of the three, and the insights collected during the study underlined the technological feasibility of HAPS.
Beyond the assessment of the potential and technological readiness of HAPS for the three high level use cases, five additional specific use cases were established. They were designed in close collaboration with Frontex and the EU Innovation Hub on Internal security, in order to be able to assess the potential of HAPS through the lens of relevant operational activities. The five specific use cases included in the study entailed:
- Search & Rescue missions;
- (Cross-border) remote sensing/observation, monitoring of points of interest;
- Remote vehicle/UAS/IoT operations;
- Covert operations; and
- Provision of ad hoc back-up telecommunication network and GNSS.
The stratospheric environment represents enormous engineering challenges. However, the added value and market potential drive industrial – and in some cases institutional – actors to invest ms of euros in development of HAPS, opening the door to the stratosphere and opening up the possibility for the EU ecosystem related to internal security to leverage the technology, as it can provide a clear added value in all assessed high level and specific use case.
Innovation hub platform
The project is carried out under the EU Innovation Hub for Internal Security, a cross-sectorial EU platform which ensures collaboration between internal security innovation actors, formed by the EU Justice and Home Affairs agencies, European Commission, the Council General Secretariat and the EU Counter Terrorism Coordinator.
Download the report here: https://frontex.europa.eu/assets/EUresearchprojects/2023/FX_HAPS_WP2_-_Technological_Assessment_Consolidated.pdf
For more information visit: www.frontex.europa.eu
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
29 Aug 23. Eurocae releases draft ED-322 on interoperability requirements for non-cooperative UAS detection systems.
Standards agency Eurocae has released its draft document ED-322 on System Performance and Interoperability Requirements for non-cooperative UAS detection systems. The document describes the system performance and interoperability requirements for non-cooperative UAS detection systems (Counter-UAS) in airport environments. The document is intended to summarise the different aspects of the Counter UAS (C-UAS) system and to have a better understanding of the C-UAS system components at the detection level. This document will identify performance requirements parameters of the Counter UAS detection system as it has been defined in the ED 286 / DO-389 Operational Services and Environment Definition (OSED) for Counter UAS in Controlled Airspace.
ED-322 was developed jointly by EUROCAE Working Group 115 ‘Counter UAS’ and RTCA SC-238. The consultation on this new standard is open until 10 October 2023. After this date, it will be submitted for approval by the EUROCAE Council.
Julia Sanchez, co-leader of WG 115 stated: “I am very pleased that, after a few years of work, we now have the first international standard on C-UAS for the detection part. C-UAS is not part of the UAS Traffic Management, but most probably interfaces will emerge in the future and the standard already supports interoperability”.
Filippo Tomasello, member of WG 115, added: “This standard was developed with civil airports in mind, but nothing prevents other public entities, including militaries, using it for procurement of C-UAS. EuroUSC Italia would be happy to support you if requested. Procurement based on international standards offers more assurance on system performance”.
Detection systems are essential part of the Counter UAS (C-UAS) systems which may be necessary to protect major airports from drone intrusions. These intrusions disrupt air traffic regularity. However, the standard may be applied by entities wishing to purchase C-UAS systems to protect any sensitive sites from drones anywhere in the world.
Access the document here: https://frontex.europa.eu/assets/EUresearchprojects/2023/FX_HAPS_WP2_-_Technological_Assessment_Consolidated.pdf
For more information visit: www.easa.europa.eu
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
29 Aug 23. US plans to ‘field thousands of autonomous systems’ to counter China’s rapid arms buildup. US Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks announced a government initiative aimed at directly countering the People’s Republic of China’s rapid buildup of its armed forces, says a Department of Defense (DoD) news report.
Hicks said as China focuses on the sheer mass of its military, the US will “out-match adversaries by out-thinking, out-strategizing and out-maneuvering them.” Under the strategy, described by Hicks as the replicator initiative, the Defense Department will field thousands of autonomous systems across multiple domains within the next 18 to 24 months.
Hicks was speaking at the National Defense Industrial Association’s Emerging Technologies for Defense conference in Washington. “Replicator is meant to help us overcome the PRC’s biggest advantage, which is mass,” she said. “More ships. More missiles. More people.” She said, through the initiative, the U.S. will augment its manufacturing and mobilization capabilities “with our real comparative advantage, which is the innovation and spirit of our people.” Even when mobilizing the U.S. economy and manufacturing base, rarely has the US relied solely on its ability to match adversaries’ scale alone, Hicks said.
“To stay ahead, we’re going to create a new state of the art — just as America has before — leveraging attritable, autonomous systems in all domains — which are less expensive, put fewer people in the line of fire and can be changed, updated or improved with substantially shorter lead times,” she said. In doing so, Hicks said, the U.S. will counter the PRC’s buildup, with “mass of our own,” that will be more difficult for adversaries to plan for and beat. “With smart people, smart concepts and smart technology, our military will be more nimble, with uplift and urgency from the commercial sector,” she said.
The Defense Department has long invested in autonomous systems – including self-piloting ships and no-crew aircraft. Hicks said those systems have proven to be lower cost alternatives to manned platforms and can be produced “closer to the tactical edge.”
Attritable capabilities refer to platforms that are unmanned and built affordably, allowing commanders to tolerate a higher degree of risk in employing them. For more information visit: www.defense.gov (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
01 Sep 23. Australia issues new regulation applicable to operating drones at night. The Civil Aviation Authority of Australia (CASA) has introduced a new regulation applicable to remotely piloted aerial systems (RPAS) flying at night.
The legislation requires the operator to “have documented practices and procedures, that are approved in writing by CASA or by a manager or team Leader of CASA with responsibility for regulatory oversight of RPA operations in relation to operating RPA at night”. Before any operation under this approval, the operator must ensure that a risk assessment is carried out by the operator’s chief remote pilot in accordance with the documented practices and procedures.
Other requirements include ensuring that the launch and landing and recovery areas are illuminated so that the position of the RPA can be established and maintained by the authorised remote pilot by visual reference, and the RPA is equipped with the appropriate nighttime signals. For more information visit: www.casa.gov.au
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
04 Sep 23. Saab launches Giraffe 1X Deployment Set. Saab launches a new Deployment Set configuration for the Giraffe 1X radar that will be shown for the first time in public at DSEI 2023.
The new configuration is designed to be easily transported, swiftly re-located and quickly operational: all features highly desirable on a modern battlefield or where air threats from any direction pose a real risk to a fixed installation.
Giraffe 1X Deployment Set is an easily deployable, compact and robust, software-based, lightweight 3D AESA radar. Its small footprint and large search volume (75 km) make it excellent for urgent operations with limited possibilities. Giraffe 1X Deployment Set is a versatile solution for both mobile and fixed installations.
“Giraffe 1X Deployment Set is a highly deployable capability made for delivering an instant air picture after deployment. We are constantly pushing the time limits to give operational forces time to act,” says Carl-Johan Bergholm, head of Saab’s business area Surveillance.
Giraffe 1X provides commanders with quality air defence target data, drone detection for counter-UAS, and sense and warn capability for rockets, as well as artillery and mortar. Giraffe 1X offers continuous software upgrades in order to meet emerging threats.
28 Aug 23. SMARTSHOOTER, a world-class designer, developer, and manufacturer of innovative fire control systems that significantly increase small arms’ accuracy and situational awareness, is thrilled to announce the establishment of its new Australian subsidiary, SMASH Australia Pty Ltd.
This strategic move marks another significant milestone in the company’s expansion efforts, building on its global footprint in Europe and the US, in addition to its headquarters in Israel. The Director of SMASH Australia, Mr Lachlan Mercer, said, “The decision to establish a dedicated presence in Australia reflects SMARTSHOOTER’s commitment to enhancing their Australian Industry Content and contributing to Sovereign Industry Capability, all the while improving customer service and support in the region.”
“We are thrilled to announce the establishment of our new Australian subsidiary” said Michal Mor, CEO of SMARTSHOOTER. “This marks an exciting chapter in SMARTSHOOTER’s growth as a global leader in fire control systems. By being present in Australia, we are now better positioned to address the needs of our local customers and partners, and we look forward to fostering new collaborations within this region.”
SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH technology enhances every mission’s effectiveness through the ability to accurately engage and hit ground, aerial, and maritime surface targets, either static or moving, in both day and night operations. Utilising machine learning, computer vision, and advanced algorithms, the SMASH family of fire control systems include handheld-operated, remotely controlled, and UGV-mounted systems that ensure precise hit capabilities, enhance forces’ situational awareness, and reduce costs. Fielded and operationally deployed by friendly forces worldwide, including the IDF, the US special forces, the British Army, the Indian Navy, and forces in East Asia, the SMASH Family of Fire Control Systems enables the combatants to be smart, precise, and connected.
SMARTSHOOTER will present its SMASH fire control systems at the Army Robotics eXposition 2023 (ARX 23) at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre on 29 & 30 August. The company display will showcase SMASH Hopper as part of the QinetiQ Pty Ltd response to the Chief of Army Challenge. (Source: joint-forces.com)
01 Sep 23. Missile Defense Agency cancels test of Long-Range Discrimination Radar. The Missile Defense Agency canceled a critical flight test of the Long-Range Discrimination Radar due to a target anomaly, according to a spokesman.
“The Missile Defense Agency was unable to execute Flight Test Other-26 (FTX-26) on 17 August 2023 due to a target anomaly, which has necessitated the cancellation of this test event,” Mark Wright, MDA spokesman, told Defense News Friday.
The test was intended to demonstrate LRDR capabilities against a live ballistic missile target in a non-intercept operational test.
The agency declared the Lockheed Martin-developed LRDR’s initial fielding in December 2021 at Clear Space Force Station, Alaska, where it is located.
“MDA will conduct an extensive review and analysis to determine the root cause of the target malfunction that impacted our ability to accomplish the test,” Wright said. “A replacement operational test for the LRDR is being planned now although a test date has not yet been determined.”
Once fully operational, LRDR will be able to simultaneously search and track multiple small objects, including all classes of ballistic missiles at long ranges under continuous operation and will be tied into the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense system and the Command and Control, Battle Management and Communications system. The GMD is designed to protect the continental U.S. from potential intercontinental ballistic missile threats from North Korea and Iran.
Formal operational acceptance of the LRDR by the U.S. Space Force is planned to occur by the end of 2023.
The LRDR program experienced delays leading up to its initial fielding, which ultimately occurred a year later than planned, due to the coronavirus pandemic. MDA had to stop all construction and integration activities for LRDR when the coronavirus began spreading in the U.S. in March 2020. The program went into “caretaker status,” meaning just a small group sayed at the site to ensure the materials were protected from the elements.
Beyond missile defense, LRDR will also support space domain awareness by monitoring space activity like satellites orbiting the earth, spent rocket bodies and fragmentation debris. And while not an official requirement, a software upgrade could give LRDR hypersonic weapon detection and tracking capability. (Source: Defense News)
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