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10 Nov 23. Quantum Systems, Phase One, and Trimble Launch Phase One P5 Camera for Survey Grade UAV Solution.
Quantum-Systems GmbH has announced its collaboration with Phase One and Trimble to seamlessly integrate the Phase One P5 128-megapixel camera into its flagship Trinity Pro mapping drone.
Challenges in the Fields of Architecture, Construction, and Engineering
The surveying and construction industry confronts a wide range of challenges, including the critical aspects of time constraints, resource limitations, and the potential for costly fines due to project delays.
Traditional surveying methods have proven to be time-consuming, requiring extensive effort to reach the statistical confidence needed in data quality. This further intensifies the challenge of monitoring construction progress in a timely manner.
Delayed delivery of critical projects not only results in substantial financial penalties but also hampers overall industry progress. Moreover, the industry is facing a general and increasing shortage of surveyors, which significantly contributes to project delays.
Surveyors, particularly those within smaller companies, may exhibit reluctance to adopt these advancements. Many prefer to adhere to familiar methodologies and are concerned about the seamless integration of new tools into their existing workflows.
Accurate surveys play a critical role in construction projects and architectural design, whether it’s during the construction phase or in the post-completion monitoring stage. However, current UAV-based surveying solutions have often fallen short in capturing survey-grade quality data, leaving a critical gap in meeting industry demands.
Unmatched Survey-Grade Accuracy with a True End-to-End UAV Solution
The Trinity Pro’s lightweight design and extended flight capabilities enhance productivity and address the industry’s surveyor shortage. With a proven track record of over 75,000 flight hours, The Trinity Pro ensures reliability and reduces maintenance requirements, allowing surveyors to focus on their core tasks.
Quantum System’s Trinity Pro UAV facilitates high productivity missions with a ground speed of up to 18 m/s while maintaining safe operational altitudes ranging from 60 to 120 meters AGL, enabling the rapid surveying of large-scale areas with just a single flight.
In the realm of specialized camera systems, the Phase One P5 has been meticulously crafted to address the shortcomings of conventional cameras for UAVs in terms of speed, weight, and data quality. Purpose-built for aerial surveying via drone, the camera stands as the world’s pioneering solution, consistently delivering the highest resolution and accuracy, along with industry-standard metrical calibration.
Designed as an end-to-end surveying instrument, the Trinity Pro and Phase One P5 solution seamlessly integrates into the Trimble Business Center (TBC) workflow, setting a new standard for engineering surveying. The modern surveyor will benefit from state-of-the-art technology to improve productivity and increase profitability.
The integration of the Phase One P5 camera into Quantum Systems’ Trinity Pro UAV presents an extensive range of benefits for construction engineering customers. The Phase One P5 camera integration guarantees precision, securing survey-grade data accuracy. This exceptional level of detail and accuracy is paramount for construction projects, fostering confident decision-making while simultaneously minimizing post-processing efforts. Consequently, these features establish the joint solution as an indispensable tool for construction engineering professionals, streamlining large-scale data collection, and delivering unparalleled efficiency.
Phase One P5
At the heart of this transformative solution for mapping and surveying professionals, the Phase One P5 Camera stands as a symbol of the highest accuracy. It boasts an impressive 128-megapixel resolution, ensuring an extraordinary level of precision and data reliability.
The utilization of an electronic global shutter, combined with precisely calibrated lenses and sensor, minimizes the need for extensive post-processing and software corrections typically required to address pixel distortion, thereby ensuring the preservation of high-quality data.
With the launch of the Phase One P5 camera and the complete survey-grade UAV solution, Quantum Systems, Phase One, and Trimble are opening new horizons for professionals in the field of aerial engineering surveying. This groundbreaking solution empowers surveyors to work with unmatched precision, providing data of exceptional accuracy for a wide range of applications.
“We are proud to introduce a pioneering solution that not only addresses the profound challenges faced by the surveying and construction industry but also sets new benchmarks for efficiency and precision. Our collaboration with Phase One and Trimble has yielded a game-changing survey-grade UAV solution. Achieving this level of quality, detail, and accuracy within a fixed-wing platform is a first in the industry. We’re opening new horizons for engineering surveying professionals, and we’re excited to be at the forefront of this revolutionary leap forward .”
Robert Leake, Head of Commercial Sales, Quantum Systems
“Each Phase One P5 camera undergoes factory metric calibration and is supplied with a calibration certificate. When integrated with the Trinity Pro system, the Phase One P5 swiftly and accurately covers large survey areas, resulting in significant time and cost savings compared to traditional mapping and surveying methods.” Michael Messerschmidt, Director Product Management Unmanned, Phase One. (Source: UAS VISION/
09 Nov 23. Lockheed to ship advanced Sentinel A4 radars for US Army tests. Lockheed Martin expects to deliver a batch of Sentinel A4 radars to the U.S. Army by December to support preliminary assessments in fiscal 2025.
The next-generation radar, deemed critical to the service’s future of overhead defense, is powered by an active electronically scanned array, or AESA, and is able to concurrently detect and classify cruise missiles, rockets, artillery, mortars and drones.
“Those are user-operational evaluation systems. Those are going to start delivery end of November, December timeframe,” David Kenneweg, Lockheed’s program director for multi-mission air defense radars, told reporters during a Nov. 2 tour of the company’s facility in Syracuse, New York.
Initial operational test and evaluation — meant to gauge effectiveness and flaws of new technologies — is expected in the first half of fiscal 2025. The green light for full-blown production could quickly follow.
“The system has been designed to be able to have a growth capability to it,” Kenneweg said, “and we’ll be looking at embracing that growth capability.”
The Army signed off on Sentinel A4 low-rate initial production this year. The service’s program executive officer for missiles and space, Maj. Gen. Frank Lozano, at the time told Defense News that “a really high-quality radar” was needed for successful interceptions.
The Sentinel A4 is slated to replace the older Sentinel A3 made by RTX. It will plug into the Army’s Integrated Battle Command System, or IBCS, a key piece in the puzzle that is the Pentagon’s Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control endeavor.
CJADC2, as it’s known, envisions once-disparate forces and databases across land, air, sea, space and cyber seamlessly linked. Achieving that state, defense officials say, will allow the U.S. military to outthink and outshoot tech-savvy adversaries such as China and Russia.
“There’s a heavy focus on any sensor, any shooter,” Chandra Marshall, Lockheed’s vice president for radar and sensor systems, told reporters. “The ability of our radars to interface with any combat system is the foundation for our design, to make it easy and to make our track quality good enough so that we can provide it to any combat system and be that conduit to make decisions, from a firepower perspective.”
Lockheed is the world’s largest defense contractor when ranked by defense-related revenue, raking in roughly $63.3bn in 2022, according to Defense News analysis. The Maryland-based company won a $281m Sentinel A4 development contract in September 2019. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)
06 Nov 23. US Army seeks 100 handheld SkyWiper EDM4S man portable C-UAS systems. According to the US government procurement website, the United States Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, anticipates a requirement to provide SkyWiper (EDM4S) man portable directional Electronic Drone Mitigation System in support of Building Partner Capacity efforts.
The tender document states:
“The purpose of this announcement is to gain knowledge of interest, capabilities, and qualification of businesses to provide the SkyWiper (EDM4S) system with fixed price and cost reimbursable requirements. This announcement supports the Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 10 Market Research requirement.
“The Integrated Fires Rapid Capabilities Office -International (IFRCO-I) plans, coordinates and synchronizes programmatic, logistics, training, and technical management of international systems of systems, delivering emerging and rapid development Short Range Air Defense and Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems capabilities to foreign partners.
“The contractor shall be capable of delivering up to 100 handheld C-UAS systems (SkyWiper (EDM4S)) to ensure mitigation of control, video, and navigation signals. The system requirement includes one (1) collimator sight; one (1) battery plus one (1) spare battery; one (1) battery charger; one (1) transportation box and one (1) transportation backpack. The overall requirement includes an additional 100 batteries and 50 battery chargers.
“These systems are required to have a robust frame and be ready for use by activating the trigger. The system shall be man portable (less than 16 lbs.). High gain directional antennas are required for accuracy and efficiency. The system shall provide at least six (6) Radio Frequency (RF) modules to include 2.4GHz; 2xGNSS 1.5GHz and 1.2GHZ; 5.8GHz and at least 2 custom frequency modules to be specified upon ordering. Each module is required to operate at full power independently of other frequencies in use. Frequencies shall not be programmable by the user. Minimum operational range required is 5 km.”
Deadline for responses is November 13, 2023.
For more information: https://sam.gov/opp/44b3f65105e14dd5a59c2502ef8cae43/view (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
09 Nov 23. Insitu Announces AI-Powered, Wide-Area Maritime Search Capability for Integrator UAS. Insitu, A Boeing Company, announced the launch of a new AI-powered, wide-area search payload for Integrator in collaboration with Overwatch Imaging. The PT-6 Smart Sensor brings a highly sought-after maritime search capability to Integrator’s unmatched payload portfolio and class-leading 24-hour flight endurance.
“Wide-area maritime search capability has been a critical enabler to our customers’ mission sets for decades,” said Abigail Denburg, Insitu Vice President of Global Growth and Strategy. “ScanEagle has assisted in the capture and interdiction of over $5 bn in illegal narcotics by the US Coast Guard and partner agencies since being deployed across the National Security Cutter fleet. It’s a natural progression for us to bring this capability to Integrator, which has even more payload capacity, as well as longer endurance.”
Overwatch Imaging designed and produces PT-6, which fits seamlessly into one of Integrator’s six payload bays. PT-6 automates the otherwise focus-intensive role of searching for small targets of interest in large areas, often in challenging conditions.
PT-6 is powered by Overwatch-AI software, which automatically controls sensor operation to scan a search area continually, process data in real-time on the edge, and notify the operator or networked payload with geolocated image data of detected objects that warrant further review.
Operators can designate automated search areas and detection thresholds based on mission parameters to optimize sensor and software operation. Multi-spectral sensors allow searches to proceed from day to night and leverage long-wave infrared technology to detect thermal anomalies within a uniform maritime background.
Integrator offers 24+ hours of endurance; is designed for easy integration of modular, field-swappable, Multi-INT payloads like PT-6 (a total of 40 pounds available across six bays); and has plenty of onboard power to spare.
“With multiple payload bays to spare, PT-6 can be paired with a variety of other sensors to maximize mission capability on one single platform.”
“Overwatch Imaging is pleased to see our AI-enabled wide-area search capabilities paired with Integrator’s exceptional long-endurance platform,” said Matt Nugent, Overwatch Imaging VP of Product Management. “The PT-6 is a great match for the endurance and multiple payload capacity of Integrator. Augmenting the platform with passive, automated search and detection capabilities will be a force multiplier for the important missions Integrator users and customers serve around the world.”
With three decades of experience, more than 3,500 uncrewed aircraft manufactured to date, and more than 1.4m operational flight hours, Insitu continues to deliver the most advanced capabilities available to our global customer base in more than 35 countries and counting. Visit Insitu.com to learn more about the most capable, reliable, and combat-proven Small UAS on the market. (Source: ASD Network)
09 Nov 23. AEVEX Aerospace Announces Counter UAS Red Teaming Service. AEVEX Aerospace today publicly announced its Counter UAS (CUAS) Red Teaming Service, a solution tailored to address the dynamic, expanding world of unmanned aircraft system threats. The globally proven testing and training service leverages the expertise of the “Red Team,” a dedicated group of UAS developmental and operational professionals, to evaluate and perform vulnerability testing and training while ensuring compliance with client specifications.
The company’s CUAS Red Teaming distinguishes itself by replicating nearly any threat aircraft, while providing the most authentic threat tactics that draw from vast experience across a variety of aircraft models. AEVEX’s comprehensive turnkey approach means clients receive real-world threat simulations to enhance both systems as well as tactics, training, and procedures, saving both time and resources while increasing operational effectiveness.
“In an era where unmanned aerial threats evolve rapidly, our proven Counter UAS Red Teaming Service is a testament to AEVEX Aerospace’s commitment to staying one step ahead,” said AEVEX’s VP of Business Development, Craig Anders. Anders continued, “Leveraging decades of flight experience, our dedicated Red Team ensures that every simulation we present is as close to the real threat as possible. Our mission is to arm our clients with the knowledge and strategies needed to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”
Additionally, AEVEX Aerospace offers extensive technical support, including rapid response capabilities, prototyping support, and in-depth Avionics/RF analyses. Combined, they provide unparalleled threat simulation and system vulnerability assessment against evolving UAS threats. For more information, visit: https://aevex.com/counter-uas. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
07 Nov 23. Saab Australia has announced a formal partnership with US autonomous systems and undersea warfare company ThayerMahan to explore avenues to expand and enhance Australia’s sovereign undersea warfare capabilities.
ThayerMahan is a global leader in undersea operations and engineering that harnesses acoustic and oceanographic science to design and develop modern sensors, platforms, and algorithmic solutions.
Saab Australia managing director Andy Keough CSC, said the demand for undersea surveillance systems in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region had grown significantly in recent years.
Keogh said, “The partnership brings together Saab’s sovereign system integration expertise and autonomous maritime capabilities with ThayerMahan’s world-leading autonomous underwater surveillance technology.
“This is an exciting partnership that will accelerate the integration of proven robotic and autonomous systems with surveillance capabilities that enable persistent underwater surveillance to protect Australia’s seas, underwater assets, and borders,” Keogh added.
ThayerMahan’s maritime and undersea domain expertise includes experienced former US Navy submarine commanders, sonar operators, mine warfare specialists, and professional acoustics engineers with deep experience in operations, modelling environments, and developing solutions to meet customer requirements.
ThayerMahan chairman and chief executive officer Michael Connor welcomed the announcement and partnership with Saab Australia, saying, “Our partnership with Saab reflects our mutual interest in providing innovative, relevant, and cost-effective solutions to support maritime and undersea capabilities. We are pleased to be partnering with Saab to contribute to Australia’s maritime and undersea security capabilities.” (Source: Defence Connect)
08 Nov 23. Warrior IFVs to each get £30,000 rear camera for safety.
Rheinmetall Electronics UK, part of Germany-based Rheinmetall AG, has been awarded a £10.6m contract to deliver 359 camera units for installation on the British Army’s Warrior fleet.
Rheinmetall Electronics UK has been awarded a £10.6m ($13m) contract by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the delivery and integration of rear-facing camera on the British Army’s Warrior infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) fleet, in order to meet critical safety requirements.
The deal itself is stated as being an ‘accelerated procedure’, with the MoD justifying the process due to “reasons of urgency” in that allowing the usual contractual process to be undertaken would “have safety implications” to the Warrior IFV crew while on operations.
The contract is listed as beginning from 2 November this year, with a conclusion by 31 October 2025.
Earlier this year, the MoD issued a contract tender for Rear Safety Camera Systems (RSCS) for the Warrior IFV, in order to meet a “safety critical” modification. The RSCS system was to comprise of 359 units and include the following sub systems: rear camera; display control unit; cabling loom, and camera wash wipe facility.
The RSCS is intended all provide the Warrior driver with the means to “recognise terrain and personnel” with a field of rearward view across the track width from the immediate rear of the platform. There is currently no rear safety camera system fitted to Warrior IFV, resulting in the need for the installation of a day/night capable system.
The programme schedule of RSCS capability will see a prototype unit delivered within two months of contract award, followed by three separate batches of 90 RSCS units at as yet undisclosed intervals, with a final Batch 4 of 89 units concluding the deliveries. The consignee address code is listed as MoD Donnington.
A per unit breakdown indicated each of the 359 RSCS units will cost nearly £30,000.
In Rheinmetall Electronics UK’s annual accounts, published on UK Companies House, the company stated that it would look to develop in mission systems, simulation and training, and battlefield digitalisation, “exploiting productions and solutions from our parent organisation (Rheinmetall Electronic Solutions) for sale in the UK and export markets”.
In the year ending 31 December 2022 Rheinmetall Electronics UK recorded a turnover of in excess of £8.7m, and a gross profit of nearly £3.4m. The company’s operating profit was nearly £1.1m, paying £230,000 tax on profit after interest and other expenses.
The immediate parent company of Rheinmetall Electronics UK is Rheinmetall Defence UK, with the ultimate parent company being Germany-based Rheinmetall AG.
Will Warrior withdrawal date be pushed back?
The plan to acquire 359 rear camera units for the Warrior fleet comes just two years before the vehicle is withdrawn from service and replaced by the Boxer MIV.
In a June contract notice published by the UK Government, it was disclosed that UK Defence Equipment and Support, an arm of the MoD, was seeking hundreds of RSCS for the British Army’s Warrior IFV fleet.
Valued at up to £20m at the time, the contract was scheduled to have a start date of 1 September 2023, ending on 1 September 2025. The UK Warrior IFV fleet is due to begin its withdrawal from service in 2025.] In a June contract notice published by the UK Government, it was disclosed that UK Defence Equipment and Support, an arm of the MoD, was seeking hundreds of RSCS for the British Army’s Warrior IFV fleet.
Valued at up to £20m at the time, the contract was scheduled to have a start date of 1 September 2023, ending on 1 September 2025. The UK Warrior IFV fleet is due to begin its withdrawal from service in 2025.
In 2021, the UK Defence Command Paper announced that the British Army would retire the 359-strong Warrior IFV fleet from 2025, abandoning plans to undertake the Warrior Capability Sustainment Plan which would have seen the installation of a new turret and main weapon, among other upgrades.
Instead, the acquisition of the Boxer 8×8 mechanised infantry vehicle (MIV) would be accelerated to fill the gap left by the tracked IFV.
In 2019, the UK signed a £2.3bn deal for the procurement of 508 Boxer MIVs from Artec – a consortium of Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegman – in troop-carrying, ambulance, command and specialist carrier variants of the vehicle.
This figure has subsequently increased, with a 16 June parliamentary written answer stating that funding had been allocated for 1,016 Boxer MIVs, against a Land Fleet Requirement of 1,305. (Source: army-technology.com)
08 Nov 23. Teledyne FLIR Defense Showcases Advanced Maritime Surveillance Technology for 1st Time at Indo Pacific 2023.
- SeaFLIR 240/EP imaging sensor makes its debut in Australia
- High impact surveillance for sea-based ISR, search & rescue, and SOF missions
- Advanced optics and image processing deliver best-in-class range performance for object detection, recognition and identification
Teledyne FLIR Defense is showcasing its advanced maritime surveillance system, the SeaFLIR® 240-EP, for the first time in Australia at this week’s Indo Pacific 2023 conference at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.
With its lightweight stabilized turret, HD payload options, and inertial navigation capabilities, SeaFLIR 240 and 240-EP can support a wide range of at-sea missions, including Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), search and rescue, and special operations. The system’s advanced image-processing technology, coupled with a small form factor, make it ideally suited for naval combatant craft, small boats, and unmanned surface vessels.
The SeaFLIR 240-EP was chosen as the surveillance sensor to be integrated on tactical boats built by Sydney-based The Whiskey Project Group, which recently won a contract to deliver boats for U.S. Marines in the Pacific.
“Our SeaFLIR 240 is a powerful solution in a smaller package,” said Robert Moss, Sr. Director of Business Development for Asia-Pacific at Teledyne FLIR. “Leveraging a number of technology enhancements, such as the ability to support Aided Target Recognition (AiTR) via FLIR’s neural network target classifier, the SF240 lineup can help users dramatically boost operational surveillance, threat detection, and overall situational awareness.”
“This is the newest in a proven line of SeaFLIR and TacFLIR multi-spectral imaging products, featuring a lightweight turret in a smaller gimbal, with performance that challenges other bigger options,” Moss added.
Teledyne FLIR also is demonstrating its advanced line of unmanned aerial systems, including the SkyRanger® R70 UAS which has been successfully tested deploying both from land vehicles and sea vessels to provide continuous operational surveillance and reconnaissance.
Visit Teledyne FLIR at Indo Pacific 2023 from Nov. 7-9 at booth # 1F4 to see the SeaFLIR 240 and more of its latest defense technology solutions.
(Source: ASD Network)
07 Nov 23. Introducing SIG SAUER TANGO-DMR Tactical Riflescopes.
Introducing the all-new TANGO-DMR series of riflescopes from SIG SAUER Electro-Optics – a high-performance riflescope line that delivers unrivaled accuracy and precision in a lightweight design with advanced optical prescriptions.
“The TANGO-DMR offers exceptional clarity, precision, and ultimate versatility that’s equally suited for backcountry hunting and long-range competition; the 3-18 allows for precise target engagement from 50 to 800 meters while the 5-30 provides unrivaled accuracy up to 2,000 meters.” said Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics. “These riflescopes are loaded with features including a military-inspired locking illumination control, allowing you to quickly adjust and lock the scope’s brightness settings in any lighting condition, an exposed multi-lock elevation dial with zero stop and a new proprietary multi lock system that allows for precise adjustments on the fly. The TANGO-DMR gives you a crucial advantage in the field, and they are shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof to withstand any environment.”
The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics TANGO-DMR family of riflescopes are available in 5-30x56mm and 3-18x44mm magnification with an illuminated first focal plane MRAD or MOA Milling 2.0 reticle and 6x magnification range featuring SIG SAUER HDX glass. All TANGO-DMR riflescopes feature an ultralight design, a multi-stop zero stop multi lock elevation dial, locking illumination control, a low profile, capped windage dial, removable throw lever, 34mm maintube, and are compatible with SIG SAUER Electro-Optics Alpha scope rings.
TANGO-DMR 3-18x44mm:
Magnification: 3-18x44mm
Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
Maintube Diameter: 34mm
Reticle: Milling 2.0
Focal Plane: First
Field of View: 5.8 to 34.9” at 100 yards
Waterproof rating: IPX-7
Total Travel: 152 MOA / 45 MRAD
Travel per rotation: 25 MOA / 10 MRAD
Adjustment Increments: 0.25 MOA / 01.MOA
Overall Length: 12.3 inches
Weight: 25.5 oz.
TANGO-DMR 5-30x56mm:
Magnification: 5-30x56mm
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Maintube Diameter: 34mm
Reticle: Milling DEV-L 2.0
Focal Plane: First
Field of View: 3.5 to 21 feet at 100 yards
Waterproof rating: IPX-7
Total Travel: 91 MOA / 30 MRAD
Travel per rotation: 25 MOA / 10 MRAD
Adjustment Increments: 0.25 MOA / 01.MOA
Overall Length: 12.3 inches
Weight: 31 oz.
Like all SIG SAUER Electro-Optics the TANGO-DMR Series of riflescopes includes the Infinite Guarantee, an unlimited lifetime guarantee that requires no warranty or receipt should your optic need to be replaced at any time.
07 Nov 23. EUROCAE publishes 2024 work programme for C-UAS, STM, HAO, AAM and UTM. European standards organisations EUROCAE has published its Technical Work Programme for 2024, outlining key areas of work in the counter-UAS, space traffic management, higher airspace operations and UTM sectors.
On counter-UAS:
“WG-115 Counter-UAS (C-UAS), working with RTCA SC-238, is active on this topic. Sighting of drones in the vicinity of major airports has significantly impacted airport and flight operations. To prevent such disruptions, the airspace around an airport needs to be protected and unauthorised UAS activities need to be detected and reported, at the earliest possible stage, to Air Traffic Control and responsible authorities. Finally, and in accordance with national regulations, neutralisation or disruption of the UAS (either the Unmanned Vehicle, the Command & Control Datalink or the Remote Pilot) could be considered. Regarding the capacity to defeat the UAS, it is essential that any countering measures (e.g. jamming, interception, destruction…) do not impact current operations. As such interoperability must be achieved with existing and near-future communication, navigation and surveillance systems. WG-115 has developed ED-286 “OSED for Counter-UAS in controlled airspace” (published in Q1 2021) introducing the overall capability of a Counter UAS System, including the detection capabilities of unauthorized UAS in a protected area of influence around an airport and address the resulting hazard or threat, in a risk-based balanced manner. In 2023, ED-322 “System Performance and Interoperability Requirements for non-cooperative UAS detection systems” was developed. The next tasks for WG-115 include: – A review of ED-286, taking into account the evolution of understanding of C-UAS operational requirements and emerging system capabilities. – Then, building on the OSED update, developing Interoperability Requirements for Counter-UAS systems. Depending on decisions from regulatory and security authorities, further standards (MASPS or MOPS) could be added to the WG programme of work.
On space traffic management:
“Space Traffic Management (STM) is intended to develop a set of standards and rules to organise safe access to and operations in space, considering the proliferation of space vehicles, satellites, and space debris. EUROCAE currently has no WG developing related standards, but the topic is monitored closely. Today, launches and recovery of rockets are done through the traditional airspace structure, fully segregated by closing airspace with substantial safety buffers, proper integration in the ATM, handed over to STM and re-entry into ATM to land at the spaceport or airport. The EU Space Programme considers the autonomy in launchers and STM a strategical objective, and intends exploring new and competitive solutions for access to space and for STM. Developments in STM will need to work closely with, and ensure integration with, Higher Airspace Operations, and this will require extensive standardisation activity. “
On higher airspace operations:
“Higher Airspace Operations (HAO) refer to operations that take place in airspace above where conventional IFR operations occur. Although the upper and lower vertical limits are not formally defined, this airspace is typically from above FL 660 up to space, or around 100 km. EUROCAE currently has no WG developing related standards, but the topic is followed closely. The variety of operations emerging for this airspace volume is such that some form of management will be needed, but it does not necessarily need to follow the model of ATM below it. Operators may be able to take more of a role in managing their fleets within new ICAO guidelines, making use of innovative services and technologies. It may be possible to adapt existing or emerging ATM concepts to support such operations, for example trajectory-based operations or advanced flexible use of airspace, or it may need an entirely new model such as U-Space / UTM. This will need regional and global harmonisation since higher airspace operations will involve international and even intercontinental trajectories. It is certain that all these emerging activities will, to varying degrees, have an impact on current aviation and on the air navigation system as a whole. Consequently, they must be integrated appropriately to encourage and enable innovative new businesses while maintaining the high levels of safety, regularity, efficiency, and security for all existing airspace users. These considerations highlight several areas where EUROCAE currently has little standardisation activity. Enabling these operations will require the standardisation of new applications for existing technologies, as well as the introduction of new technologies that will need standardisation. The European Commission (DG DEFIS) wants to strengthen Europe as global actor, with a tailored space strategy to foster innovation and entrepreneurship and to encourage applications as well as to reinforce autonomy and security. This includes supporting rocket launches from European sites in such a way that it can be managed safely and economically, in coordination with the ATM environment, as well as by creating a regulatory framework for orbital and sub-orbital activities that integrates with other users of the Higher Airspace. All this is foreseen as performance-based regulation, supported by standards. Industry and operators are calling already today for more harmonisation and standardisation to develop quick and innovative operations in a predictable environment worldwide.
On advanced air mobility and UTM:
The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) domain, and its subset of Urban Air Mobility (UAM), encompasses emerging concepts such as piloted, unmanned or uncrewed aircraft systems, namely UAS, RPAS, and VTOL, for which a set of standards are needed to support their safe integration in the airspace. It also covers related topics, like UAS Traffic Management (UTM or U-space in Europe) and ground infrastructure, that are necessary for global integration in the operational environment. New concepts for general aviation will also fall in this domain. NOTE: The EU has introduced the term Innovative Air Mobility (IAM), whilst the ICAO, FAA and other international stakeholders use the term AAM. This domain is evolving fast and terminology will continue to change. Working Group WG-105 is active in the very broad field of Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The six sub-groups are developing standards covering standardisation activities from technical design issues all the way to operational requirements of UTM. WG-112 develops standards for VTOL systems in a holistic manner and therefore a manifold set of subgroups with very diverse range of topics is quite active. The goal is the safe and secure integration of those aircraft into the existing aviation structure (including certification), as well as in the ATM system.”
For more information
https://www.eurocae.net/news/posts/2023/november/the-release-of-the-technical-work-programme-twp-for-2024-is-now-official/
08 Nov 23. Armenia contracts to buy Indian ZADS C-UAS system to counter Azerbaijan. Unconfirmed press and social media reports circulating in the last several days suggest that Armenia has contracted with India for the supply of an unidentified quantity of the Zen Anti-Drone System (ZADS). The Indian Army awaits delivery of the system, developed by Zen Technologies Limited of Hyderabad, next year under a USD27 m order for 20 units placed in 2021.
The fact that the Indian Army has procured the system has been taken as something of an endorsement by Armenia, according to sources close to the alleged transaction, which is said to be valued in the region of USD41 m. Unmanned Airspace understands the order covers both the ZADS system and an unspecified volume of training solutions – Zen’s other core business focus.
ZADS is designed to a multi-layer, multi-sensor architecture and offers operators detection, classification, tracking and drone defeat capabilities. The early days of Armenia’s current conflict with Azerbaijan were marked by Azeri use of Bayraktar TB-2 UAS, which caused significant damage to Armenian infrastructure and equipment, having a strategic effect on the outcome of the conflict. A fragile peace is currently in place and Armenia would appear to be making considerable efforts to bolster its future defences. The nation is something of a strategic partner for India, and recently procured Pinaka multiple rocket launchers and munitions to the value of USD250 m.
Zen Technologies Limited has announced it is to establish a branch office in Armenia to provide sales, support and service for its solutions.
For more information: www.zentechnologies.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
07 Nov 23. Prism Detect Launched for Low Altitude Airspace Awareness,
Altitude Angel, a renowned leader in UTM (Unified Traffic Management) technology, has unveiled a new division named Prism Detect. This division is dedicated to providing advanced unified situational awareness capabilities through its ARROW technology, catering to customers needing to detect crewed and uncrewed aircraft.
At the heart of Altitude Angel’s ARROW technology is a pivotal element in establishing the world’s most extensive drone superhighway. This innovative system comprises a network of ground-based sensors designed to scan the lower airspace. These sensors seamlessly connect to Altitude Angel’s global UTM platform, GuardianUTM, which processes real-time data and amalgamates it into a high-resolution, dynamic map of the low-altitude sky. This map encompasses drones and crewed aviation, serving as a single point of truth.
Prism Detect, in its entirety, empowers managers responsible for safeguarding sensitive real estate or critical infrastructure by providing them with a comprehensive, real-time perspective on all airspace users within a significant radius of their locations. This capability is adaptable to various situations, whether it involves temporary, mobile, or fixed installations, setting it apart from conventional surveillance and detection solutions that typically employ a one-size-fits-all approach. Prism Detect allows for the scaling or reduction of the sensor array to match the specific needs of the operator, depending on the terrain.
Integrating Prism Detect with Altitude Angel’s GuardianUTM platform equips operators with the unique ability to distinguish between authorized and unauthorized aerial visitors, facilitating informed decision-making based on accurate intelligence. This adaptability and versatility make Prism Detect particularly valuable for applications such as sporting events, mass gatherings, or situations where establishing visibility over extensive geographic areas is paramount. Additionally, it offers the advantage of distinguishing between allies and potential adversaries in the vicinity and even can label certain drones as “known,” such as those supporting the event itself.
Richard Parker, Altitude Angel CEO, and founder, said: “Altitude Angel has, and always will be, focussed on enabling drone operations and providing services for new airspace users.
“Prism Detect will give those with responsibility for critical infrastructure, sensitive real-estate, or outdoor sport and entertainment venues unparalleled visibility into the sky above. By providing clear intelligence as to who or what is operating in the airspace means appropriate and proportionate decisions can be made swiftly and with confidence.
“Today, facilities worldwide can avail of a variety of often independent sensors, each telling only a single chapter of the story and offer little to no actual intelligence to distinguish between authorized and unauthorized traffic. If the world is to welcome drones, then the world needs Prism Detect to help it make sense of the data.” (News Release)
About Altitude Angel
Altitude Angel is an award-winning provider of UTM (Unified Traffic Management) software, enabling those planning to operate or develop UTM/U-Space solutions to integrate robust data and services quickly with minimum effort.
Today, Altitude Angel’s market-defining technology is providing a critical, enabling service on which the future of UTM will be built across the globe. Altitude Angel is leading a consortium of businesses to build and develop 165 miles (265km) of ‘drone superhighways’ connecting airspace above Reading, Oxford, Milton Keynes, Cambridge, Coventry, and Rugby over the next two years. The Skyway superhighway network enabled using Altitude Angel’s patented ARROW technology, will unlock the huge potential offered by unmanned aerial vehicles and be a catalyst to enable growth in the urban air mobility industry.
Altitude Angel’s first-party solutions also power some of the world’s leading ANSPs, aviation authorities, and Enterprises, including LVNL (Netherlands) and Avinor (Norway), empowering them with new capabilities to manage and integrate drone traffic into national operations safely.
By unlocking the potential of drones and helping national aviation authorities, ANSPs, developers, and enterprise organizations, Altitude Angel is establishing new services to support the growth of the drone industry.
Altitude Angel was founded by Richard Parker in 2014 and is headquartered in Reading, UK.
Altitude Angel’s developer platform is open and available to all at https://developers.altitudeangel.com (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
08 Nov 23. DroneShield and Lockheed Martin Collaboration.
- DroneShield and Lockheed Martin Australia collaborate on Agile Shield Program
- DroneShield’s DroneCannon Mk2 wide area non-kinetic effector integrated into Lockheed Martin’s architecture
DroneShield (“DroneShield” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce its collaboration with Lockheed Martin Australia’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Leadership and Research Laboratory (STELaRLab).
As part of this collaboration, DroneCannon Mk2, DroneShield’s wide area non-kinetic effector, has been integrated into Lockheed Martin Australia’s Agile Shield Program.
Agile Shield has been developed under the Next Generation Technologies Fund framework, as part of DST Group’s Counter Improvised Threats Grand Challenge and is initially designed to counter uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS).
Kevin McDonald, STELaRLab’s Integrated Systems Lead for Agile Shield, commented: “The system brings together a number of Australian sensors and effectors with an open mission architecture to provide a rapid, scalable and flexible response to airborne threats. STELaRLab’s contribution included development of the open mission systems architecture and acting as the prime systems integrator.”
“The addition of proven C-UAS jammers, such as DroneCannon Mk2, is part of Agile Shield’s planned transition from the virtual world to field demonstrations which occurred in October 2023.”
07 Nov 23. UK looks to Netherlands tie-up for Serpens Deep Find radar. The UK has elected to pursue a government-to-government deal with the Netherlands for the procurement of a new Deep Find radar as part of a wider recapitalisation of the British Army’s weapons locating capability under Project Serpens, Janes has learnt.
The move, which will see the UK join other NATO members in buying the Thales Nederland Ground Master 200 (GM200) multimission radar, is intended to accelerate delivery of the Deep Find capability, according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD). However, the intention remains to compete with other elements of Serpens.
Seen as a critical equipment procurement project within the British Army’s Land intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) programme, Project Serpens is intended to modernise the British Army’s ability to detect, recognise, identify, and locate incoming rockets, artillery, and mortars (RAMs), as well as a range of other threats, including unmanned aircraft systems. This intention is to recapitalise the current weapons locating capability by introducing a digitally networked suite of interoperable radar and sensor systems to replace legacy standalone sensors. (Source: Janes)
08 Nov 23. US to import multifunctional radars for its warships from Japan. Formerly instrumental in the exportation of Patriot 2 air defense system and F-15 fighter jet components to the United States, it is currently reported that Japan is on the verge of becoming a vital supplier of radar systems for the US Navy.
- USS Savannah (LCS) fired RIM-174 missiles testing the MK 70 Mod 1
- After deploying F-22s to Japan, the US also sent B-1B Lancer
- Kawasaki’s cutting-edge missile will defend the Japanese Islands
Aligned with the strategic direction of the Pentagon to synergize with allies for optimizing collective power in the defense market, the US-based defense contractor, RTX, is allegedly on the brink of finalizing an agreement to procure a key component from Japan’s Mitsubishi Electric. This component is earmarked for deployment in a sophisticated missile defense radar system.
The prospective arrangement stands to serve as an impactful landmark in the reciprocally advantageous relationship between the capitals of Japan and the United States. This relationship is driven by their mutual resolution to augment defense-industrial collaboration as a way to counterbalance the intensifying complications arising from China’s actions.
There is growing anticipation that RTX will secure a transaction for the acquisition of power supply equipment from Mitsubishi Electric. This equipment is crucial for the functional operation of the SPY-6 air defense radar, a cutting-edge technology specifically created for use by the US Navy.
The probable pact between the Tokyo-based electronic giant and the American defense entity is projected to bring together a substantial investment that reaches into the hundreds of ms of dollars.
The AN/SPY-6 Air and Missile Defense Radar [AMDR] is posited as the Navy’s advanced-generation radar system. This system is designed to fill in the gaps between the existing capabilities in the realm of Ballistic Missile Defense [BMD] and Air Defense [AD].
This technologically sophisticated radar system is capable of simultaneously defending against a multitude of threats including ballistic and cruise missiles, airborne objects, and surface military vessels. It guarantees superior accuracy and an expanded operational range as compared to traditional systems in place.
Equipped with a heightened sensitivity that renders it 30 times more capable than the radars currently utilized on the Arleigh Burke Destroyers, the SPY-6 can manage and track more than 30 times the number of targets currently possible for tracking by the SPY-1 radar.
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, the USS Jack H. Lucas, inaugurated on October 7 in the state of Florida, proudly stands as the inaugural vessel to be outfitted with the sophisticated SPY-6 radar system.
The advanced SPY-6 radar is poised for transformation into the central air defense radar for the U.S. Navy, with plans laid out for its integration into a wide range of naval platforms, prominently including both frigates and aircraft carriers, in the ensuing years.
In a notable development, the U.S. Navy awarded a substantial contract to Raytheon Technologies, rebranded as RTX, in March 2022. The contract, esteemed at upwards of US$3.2 bn, is aimed at equipping as many as 31 ships with radar systems over an ensuing term of five years.
Reduced dependency
The United States defense corporations’ unusual selection of a Japanese defense establishment as a lead supplier of high-tech military hardware is an unconventional occurrence that has drawn significant interest within the sector.
Another intriguing sequence is the delivery of equipment to the US Army by a Japanese defense manufacturer, even before the Japanese Self-Defense Forces received similar orders.
Historically, Japanese manufacturers, through license agreements, had delivered parts for the American Patriot 2 air defense system and F-15 fighter jet engines intended primarily for the Self-Defense Forces.
Japan negotiated a license for the manufacturing of the Patriot defense system, in which Mitsubishi Heavy Industries [MHI] Group acted as the principal contractor.
Under the licensed production program, components for Japan’s advanced Patriot Capability-3 missiles began to be produced at the Taketoyo plant, located south of Nagoya, during the latter part of the 2000s.
From the onset, the Japanese government sought unrestricted access for Japanese entities to all the software required for the co-production of the Patriot missile, which includes guidance and target recognition elements.
Nevertheless, due to apprehensions regarding potential leaks to adversarial nations, it was deemed necessary by the US Department of Defense to withhold a plethora of sensitive materials.
Aside from the Patriot air defense system, the reliance on Japanese suppliers for importing components of the F-15 fighter jet engines, which were first licensed to the Self-Defense Forces, has also been pronounced.
Manufactured under a licensing agreement by MHI Group in Japan, the F-15J, an offshoot of the F-15, the production process incorporated a substantial exchange of knowledge and cooperation between the US and Japan in the aerospace sector.
Nevertheless, the dependence on Japanese contractors surfaced only when US manufacturing discontinued or when there was a deficiency in domestic supplies.
The Japanese government has been encouraging the growth of the domestic defense industry overseas. In June, legislation was passed allocating fresh funding to aid Japanese businesses in modifying their equipment for export.
The Japanese Defense Ministry articulated concern over the potential aftermath of companies departing the defense sector. This could lead to a reduction in the nation’s domestic manufacturing abilities, an issue further elaborated upon in its annual white paper.
In the past two decades, it has been recorded that over 100 companies have exited the defense industry, triggering concerns about the deteriorating condition of the defense sector in Japan. (Source: News Now)
07 Nov 23. TRD counter-drone solutions expand around the world. In the past year, TRD has delivered eleven Orion-I Next-Generation Counter-UAS Vehicles to an Asian client. (TRD)
Singaporean company TRD is launching a new man-portable drone gun at Defense & Security 2023. Called the Orion-I, where the “I” stands for integrated, this is a next-generation, networked system-of-systems suite.
The handheld Orion-I combines the capabilities of the Orion-D MP and/or Orion-D HH detection systems, combined with the latest Orion-H9 drone gun with add-on Orion-MOC mobile operations console to act as defeat systems. The Orion-I also adds the Orion-C2 Lite web-based command-and-control tablet. This shows detected drone data on an interactive map. Alternatively, the information can be displayed on an Orion-C2 Smart Watch, which provides intuitive visual and sound alerts to a single operator.
Asked what is so unique about the Orion-I system of systems, TRD explained that the “concept usually applies to fixed-site and mobile vehicular solutions. TRD is believed to be the first to offer a man-portable solution to the concept, which provides extended mobility and reach for critical-asset protection that may have otherwise be limited by range and line of sight. At the same time, TRD came up with a web-based approach to communication for quicker and easier access of information among all the systems.”
The fact that the Orion-I is man-portable is a bonus, since it is quick and versatile to deploy. Another advantage of the system-of-systems approach is that customers can start with a basic capability of standalone devices, and then scale up to create an integrated and seamless counter-drone system over time.
The aforementioned Orion-H9 is effective in nine bands (five radio frequency bands and four GNSS systems) selectively and simultaneously. TRD noted: “Even though the distinct shape of the Orion drone gun remains constant, the technology inside continues to advance to address the ever-evolving drone threats. This has proven to be able to take down even the latest commercial, DIY and certain military-grade drones we see in the market today.”
The Orion-H has been used in 28 different countries to date, indicative of the popularity of TRD’s counter-UAS (C-UAS) systems.
Since the previous Defense & Security 2022 exhibition, TRD has delivered eleven Orion-I Next-Generation Counter-UAS Vehicles to an Asian client. The company has also added new functionality to its vehicle-based system in terms of a drone-on-drone capability for extended surveillance and jamming range. The vehicle-based solution can also detect and jam on the move.
Furthermore, the Orion-SP navigational satellite spoofing system has been integrated. This gives another soft-kill option in addition to jamming. The Orion-SP causes UAVs entering a “spoofed” protection area to become “lost”. This results in the drone turning away, making a forced landing or flying according to a set trajectory.
Significantly, TRD’s Counter-UAS Test Centre in Thailand is in full swing, located just one hour’s drive from Bangkok. This operational range permits live testing and evaluation. The Singapore company noted, “TRD feels testing and evaluation is especially important, as UAS threats and C-UAS solutions continue to evolve quickly.”
TRD runs regular workshops and live demonstrations for customers at its test centre. Situated there are six types of radars, eight kinds of RF detection systems, various jammers, a GPS spoofer and numerous UAVs for testing. An example test may involve simultaneously flying multiple drones of different sizes, to test how quickly and accurately a system can detect, identify and track each drone.
Importantly, the Thailand-based Counter-UAS Test Centre possesses a military grade certification centre. It can conduct rigorous tests such as radiation hazard assessments, ingress protection evaluations, and compliance to MIL-STD-461G and MIL-STD-810H standards.
TRD is pleased to say that, following a campaign to expand its global presence implemented in 2021, it has gained footholds in both the Middle East and Europe. Indeed, TRD successfully delivered 50 Orion-H9 drone guns to a Middle East military customer within three months. Additionally, the Singapore entity is in talks to create a joint venture company in the Middle East, with hopes of locally producing 1,000 Orion-H9s in the next year.
As for Europe, TRD delivered its full-suite, fixed-site Orion Anti-Drone System to two European countries to help protect critical infrastructure. TRD added that its European strategy is to “look to develop strategic partnerships in the market to create synergies between C-UAS solutions, and/or partner for local production”.
As well as selling equipment, TRD offers a C-UAS service. For example, it can deploy equipment for one-off events. An example is September’s ASEAN Summit in Indonesia, plus another is the APEC Summit in Thailand in November 2022. This service can also provide a stop-gap solution for airports or airbases whilst authorities evaluate more permanent C-UAS solutions.
Regarding its presence at Defense & Security 2023, TRD shared: ‘Thailand stands as a testament to our successful partnerships, being one of our most significant customers to date. Our collaboration with customers and partners in Thailand has been a journey of empowerment, aiding them in enhancing their C-UAS capabilities. Today, they are not only equipped with advanced systems, but they also have a skilled workforce to support pivotal in-country events, such as the APEC Summit held last year.”
It concluded: “TRD has firmly rooted its presence in Thailand by establishing a comprehensive product development cycle. From ideation to production and rigorous testing, our local centre ensures that we deliver products tailored to the unique needs of the region, ensuring superior quality and relevance.” (Source: AMR)
06 Nov 23. France Activates Third GM406 Air Surveillance Radar. The GM406 air surveillance radar, part of the Thalès Ground Master family, was inaugurated on the summit of Mount Thou, west of Lyon.
This new detection system is part of the progressive modernization of the network of military radars monitoring national airspace to permanently ensure the sovereign control of French territory. The event, organized on the 30th anniversary of the aerospace operations command and control system (SCCOA), a major program of the Air and Space Force (AAE), brought together authorities and representatives from the military and industrial sectors.
After Guyana in 2014 (for the protection of the Kourou Space Center) and the Nice Mont-Agel site in 2015 (in its transportable version), the GM406 radar, put into service at the Lyon Mont-Verdun air base, is the third of its generation to be activated on the national territory, and replaces the old radar located on Mount Thou.
This new generation of Ground Master radars represents a decisive leap in detection capability, in terms of performance, radar coverage at low, medium and high altitudes (with a wide spectrum of detectable targets, including medium-size drones, availability (with reinforced cyber protection) and maintenance (with supervision and hypervision of the remotely operated system).
SCCOA: 30 years of a permanently incremental program
The SCCOA is the cornerstone of the air component of France’s permanent security posture (PPS), under which the Air and Space Force (AAE) ensures the protection of the country. Launched in 1993, the SCCOA represents an essential link in the operational system of the AAE and the combat preparation of the forces. From air control to ground-to-air defense, including the command and control (C2) of air operations and space surveillance, it is at the heart of the service’s missions.
The systems that make it up are installed on air bases and fixed military centers for missions carried out 24 hours a day on the national territory. Certain mobile systems make it possible to have the same capabilities in external theaters of operations.
A system of systems, it brings together 150 systems and more than 160 external systems all contributing to the same mission but some of which are up to 50 years apart: the federation of the whole is a real challenge – met on a daily basis by the various actors, state and industrial, mobilized in this major and ambitious program.
The stage of the program which includes the commissioning of the GM406 in the Lyon region provides more broadly for the strengthening of the command and conduct of operations capacity, the strengthening of the IT security of the systems and the deployment of Air Control and Command System (ACCS) which will achieve the full integration of France into NATO air operations.
In front of the military representatives of the AAE, the General Armament Delegation (DGA) and the Joint Directorate of Networks and Information Systems Infrastructure (DIRISI) and manufacturers (Thalès, Airbus, CS Group, MOSS), General Laurent Rataud, commander of air defense and air operations, stressed that the SCCOA is more than a weapons program. “It is an ecosystem which has brought together for thirty years an entire community around a mission, a national ambition, a certain idea of our sovereignty and our national credibility,” he said, referring to the decision by General de Gaulle to create, in 1945, the Territorial Air Directorate to provide France with the capacity to autonomously ensure the air defense of its territory. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ French Air Force)
06 Nov 23. U.S. Army Seeks Market Info on ED4MS SkyWiper Drone Gun.
The United States Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), located at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is preparing for the potential need to procure the SkyWiper (EDM4S) man-portable directional Electronic Drone Mitigation System. This acquisition will aid in advancing the Building Partner Capacity efforts. The primary objective of this notice is to assess the level of interest, capabilities, and qualifications of businesses capable of supplying the SkyWiper (EDM4S) system under fixed-price and cost-reimbursable terms. This announcement is in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 10, which mandates market research as an essential requirement.
This is a Sources Sought Announcement for market survey purposes only. This is not a solicitation for proposals. No contract shall be awarded, nor will reimbursement be made for any costs associated with providing information in response to this announcement.
Required Capabilities for the SkyWiper Portable Drone Mitigation System
The contractor shall be capable of delivering up to 100 handheld C-UAS systems (SkyWiper (EDM4S)) to ensure mitigation of control, video, and navigation signals. The system requirement includes one (1) collimator sight; one (1) battery plus one (1) spare battery; one (1) battery charger; one (1) transportation box, and one (1) transportation backpack. The overall requirement includes an additional 100 batteries and 50 battery chargers.
These systems are required to have a robust frame and be ready for use by activating the trigger. The system shall be man-portable (less than 16 lbs.). High-gain directional antennas are required for accuracy and efficiency. The system shall provide at least six (6) Radio Frequency (RF) modules to include 2.4GHz; 2xGNSS 1.5GHz, and 1.2GHZ; 5.8GHz and at least 2 custom frequency modules to be specified upon ordering. Each module is required to operate at full power independently of other frequencies in use. Frequencies shall not be programmable by the user. The minimum operational range required is 5 km. (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
06 Nov 23. DroneShield Teams with ADF Drone Racing Association.
- DroneShield teams with Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Association and becomes its sponsor
- Enables for deeper collaboration between ADF drone pilots and DroneShield for C-UAS system design, operational learning and field tactics
DroneShield (“DroneShield” or the “Company”) is pleased to launch a collaboration with the Australian Defence Force (“ADF”) Drone Racing Association (“Association”) and become a Team sponsor. The teaming will enhance its C-UAS system design, operational learning and field tactics.
The ADF Drone Racing Association is represented by the ADF’s fastest drone racing pilots from the Navy, Army and Air Force and have achieved exponential success since its formation in 2017.
The sponsorship and collaboration between DroneShield and the Association will include:
- Systematically testing DroneShield equipment against the drones deployed by the Association, enabling two-way development of both DroneShield’s C-UAS systems, and the Association’s drone arsenal, influencing further development
- Collaboration around system design, operational learning and field tactics, including drone swarming attack patterns
- Deepening of relationships between Australian foremost minds in drones in military applications, and the leading sovereign C-UAS capability development
Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, ADF Drone Racing Association president, commented “We are excited to enter into teaming with DroneShield, including testing our drone strategies at DroneShield’s test site in Blue Mountains and exchange knowledge, and being a part of sovereign C-UAS capability development.”
Oleg Vornik, DroneShield’s CEO, added “The ADF Drone Racing Association contains some of the best drone pilots in the country in the military context, flying small, ultra-fast drones at over 150km/hr, in unique and challenging settings. There is a large amount of operational learnings between our teams, and we look forward to the collaboration. This is a significant red-teaming opportunity for DroneShield to continue to stay at the edge of C-UAS capabilities globally.”
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