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RADAR, EO/IR, C-UAS, NIGHT VISION AND SURVEILLANCE UPDATE

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Sponsored by Echodyne

 

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27 Dec 23. US Army details acquisition plans for Coyote C-UAS capability. The US Army is increasing the number of Coyote loitering munition interceptors as part of the Mobile-Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defeat System (M-LIDS), according to a new contracting notice. The army plans put Raytheon on contract to build 6,000 Coyote kinetic interceptors by 2029, according to the request for information (RFI) released on 18 December. The Coyote Block 2 counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UASs) have been taking out group 3 UASs in the Central Command area of responsibility (AOR) for some time, Major General Sean Gainey, director of the Joint C-UAS Office (JCO), said in August 2023 during the annual Space and Missile Defense Symposium. The division sets that the army has started building would have five Coyote interceptors on one vehicle to be manned by an air-defence battery. This formation would be complemented by electronic warfare C-UAS capabilities manned by division soldiers.

“So that divisional ADA [Air Defense Artillery] Battalion will have the batteries worth of counter-UAS capability and soldiers manning that capability,” Maj Gen Gainey said. (Source: Janes)

 

15 Dec 23. Czech Republic receives new electronic surveillance system. The Army of the Czech Republic (ACR) has received the first of two new deployable passive electronic surveillance systems following an official handover ceremony to the 532nd Electronic Warfare Battalion on 13 December. The system, known as the Deployable Passive Electronic Support Measures Tracker (DPET), is replacing the in-service Vera-S/M, although it will remain in the armament of the army and be used for training and use by Active Reserve units, according to an announcement by the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic. The DPET will be in service over the next 10–15 years following delivery of the second and final system in 2024. (Source: Janes)

 

21 Dec 23. Israel Delivers Eighth and Final MADR 3D Radar to Czechia.

The Army Has All MADR 3D Radars at its Disposal.

All eight MADR 3D radars purchased by the Ministry of Defense in the government-to-government regime from the State of Israel have arrived in the Czech Republic. The contract was concluded under the previous management of the department, led by the then minister Lubomír Metnar, in December 2019. The soldiers who were destined for the last piece of radar received it last week.

In the coming months, individual devices will gradually be introduced and integrated into the use of the army, the entire system will be fully functional in the second half of next year at the latest. The value of the order is 3.5bn crowns including VAT.

The 3D radar project is unfortunately accompanied by a delay, which was mainly caused by technical problems on the part of the supplier. The covid-19 pandemic also affected deliveries. Ongoing technical complications have been repeatedly discussed between the Czech and Israeli sides, most recently the Israeli defense attaché was notified by letter of problems with the delivery last week.

Defense Minister Jana Černochová will also deal with the situation. At the earliest possible opportunity, she would like to bring to the attention of the Israeli Defense Minister the difficulties in meeting the timetable. “I believe that together we will be able to resolve the delay and the radars will be introduced into the army’s equipment as soon as possible. In this way, we will be able to replace another outdated technical equipment of Russian production,” said Černochová.

Today, due to project delays, the government had to extend the related asset reproduction program entitled “Maintenance and development of the capabilities of the Czech Air Force” until the end of 2024. It stipulated the completion of the MADR project by the end of this year. The property reproduction program included, in addition to the purchase of 3D radars, more than seven dozen other projects, which will be completed by the end of this year according to the plan.

The Czech Republic has ordered a total of eight ELM-2084 MMR mobile 3D air defense radar sets manufactured by ELTA Systems from the Israeli government. In the armament of the army, it will replace outdated Russian-made radar technology, which has already exceeded its useful life several times. MADR will provide the Army of the Czech Republic with an overview of the air situation at low and medium altitudes up to 3000 m, i.e. in the area that is the national responsibility of the Czech Republic. It is one of the most modern existing systems, which is part of, for example, the famous Iron Dome air defense system.

Radar detectors will be introduced in the equipment of the 26th Command, Control and Reconnaissance Regiment. Five radars will be located on stationary military sites for the benefit of the NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense System (NATINAMDS). The remaining three will be available for the protection of strategic objectives and objects important for the defense of the state as part of the national emergency air defense system of the Czech Republic (NaPoSy PVO ČR) and further to achieve the obligations of the Czech Republic towards NATO allies (Capability Targets).

(Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)

(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/Czech Republic Ministry of Defence; issued Dec 20, 2023)

 

21 Dec 23. NATO ISR Force – New Name, More Flying, Still Growing. On the occasion of a Commander’s Call, the NATO Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Force (NATO ISR Force) looks back on an eventful year 2023.

“I’m incredibly proud of this organization. We move quickly, we set ambitious goals, and we embrace a relentless commitment to excellence; this is what it takes to stay one step ahead of our adversaries.”

Since the beginning of 2022 and Russia’s brutal war in Ukraine, NATO’s ISR Force has become increasingly important generating intelligence data for the Alliance. It was only in September of this year that the force was renamed from NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Force to NATO Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Force. An important and logical step, as the new name now reflects reality – Sigonella has become a hub for the NATO ISR domain.

Big steps were taken this year. New name, first mission over Finland and moving into the new building at NISRF’s disposal in Sigonella.”The Force’s accomplishments in 2023 are nothing short of stunning, I’m incredibly proud of this organization. We move quickly, we set ambitious goals, and we embrace a relentless commitment to excellence; this is what it takes to stay one step ahead of our adversaries,” NATO ISR Force Commander, Brigadier General Andrew Clark stated during the final Commander’s Call of 2023.

Wrapping up an eventful year at NATO’s Intelligence Surveillance Force in Sigonella, Italy, the Force Commander, Brigadier General Andrew Clark addressed his team highlighting the achievements the team has made in 2023 including move to new permanent facilities and an increased ISR support to the Alliance. Photos courtesy NATO ISR Force.

NATO ISR Force flew significantly more missions than last year – eastern flank, Baltic Sea, Black Sea and High North. With its own five NATO RQ-4D “Phoenix” remotely piloted aircraft, NATO ISR Force had 30 percent more flying hours compared to last year. Brigadier General Clark therefore particularly thanked his current 420 NATO ISR Force members for their excellent commitment and service.

And the growth continues next year. “2024 will be the next step in realizing our 2030+ vision: NATO ISR Force will be a platform and data-agnostic organization capitalizing on shared date from every domain and providing high quality intelligence products to NATO decision makers and members nations at the speed of need“, the Brigadier General Clark added.

(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/NATO Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Force)

 

22 Dec 23. Cuashub.com said today that Autonomous drone hunter operating by deep learning.

Autonomous drone hunter operating by deep learning and all-onboard computations in GPS-denied environments is a report by Philippe Martin Wyder, Yan-Song Chen, Adrian J Lasrado, Rafael J Pelles, Robert Kwiatkowski, Edith O A Comas, Richard Kennedy, Arjun Mangla, Zixi Huang, Xiaotian Hu, Zhiyao Xiong, Tomer Aharoni, Tzu-Chan Chuang,  and Hod Lipson.

This paper introduces a UAV platform designed for autonomous detection, pursuit, and neutralization of other small UAVs in GPS-denied environments. The platform employs a pre-trained machine learning model to detect, track, and follow a target drone within its sensor range. A comprehensive dataset of 58,647 images is collected and generated for training a Tiny YOLO detection algorithm. The validation of this algorithm, coupled with a straightforward visual-servoing approach, is performed on a physical platform. The results demonstrate the platform’s capability to effectively track and follow a target drone at an estimated speed of 1.5 m/s. However, performance is constrained by the detection algorithm’s 77% accuracy in cluttered environments, an eight frames-per-second frame rate, and the camera’s limited field of view.

Publication Date– November 2019

Autonomous drone hunter operating by deep learning and all-onboard computations in GPS-denied environments contains the following major sections:

  • Introduction
  • Related Work
  • Contributions
  • Structure of the Paer
  • Materials and Methods
  • Results
  • Discussion
  • Conclusion

Open Access Research

22 Dec 23. Cuashub.com said today that Real-Time Detection of UAVs Using a Bio-Inspired MEMS Sensor

Real-Time Detection of Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Using a Bio-Inspired MEMS Sensor is a Naval Postgraduate School thesis by Rafael Alberto Pereira Cruz.

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors inspired by Ormia Ochracea can be strategically arranged to discern the direction of the incident sound, known as the direction of arrival (DoA). Previous research findings suggest that unambiguous DoA determination is achievable across a full 360 degrees in azimuth. While analog readouts have been accomplished using laboratory instruments, this study aimed to develop, construct, and test a circuit configuration encompassing the MEMS sensor’s housing and power. Additionally, a graphical user interface (GUI) was designed to read the DoA from an array of sensors and triangulate the position of a multi-rotor small UAV using GPS position data.

Field tests were conducted using a two-node configuration to detect a small rotor UAV, with the operational scenario displayed on a map. This innovative configuration can detect sound from any discernible source and provide the coordinates of the sound source.

Publication Date– June 2023

Real-Time Detection of Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Using a Bio-Inspired MEMS Sensor contains the following major sections:

  • Introduction
  • Literature Review
  • Real-time Detection of a UAV
  • Results
  • Conclusions

Approved for public release.  Distribution is unlimited.

https://cuashub.com/content/autonomous-drone-hunter-operating-by-deep-learning/?_hsmi=287592592&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8kwc_i0PkE6cm4xY84b-179zK24R-JHvwpQDMzM7OtbgGBQdghfKWw-ugspSY547SeiDOf7-9WR_C624wXEO9NKTop2WzUYTUo1kTFHkcEOqqgvOM#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=287592592&utm_source=hs_email(Source: https://cuashub.com/)

 

20 Dec 23. Moldova obtains air defence radar from France’s Thales. Moldova said on Wednesday it had acquired an aerial surveillance system from French defence electronics maker Thales (TCFP.PA), a first step towards developing air defences after missile debris from the war in Ukraine was found on its territory.

Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatii said the surveillance system would be able to monitor the airspace of the entire country that borders Romania and Ukraine.

“We have no air defences, no missiles, no planes. The next step is a system of air defences for critical infrastructure, including the airport, power stations and so on. This is only the beginning,” Prime Minister Dorin Recean said.

Authorities in Moldova have reported finding missile debris in northern parts of the country at least four times since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine in February 2022.

Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu said the acquisition was Moldova’s first aerial surveillance system.

“Committed to building a safer, more prosperous future within the European family,” he wrote on social media platform X.

The European Union opened formal accession talks with Moldova and neighbouring Ukraine at a summit in Brussels last week, a step the pro-Western government in Chisinau said was historic.

Moldova gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and its relations with Moscow have deteriorated during the war in Ukraine that Chisinau has staunchly condemned. (Source: Reuters)

 

20 Dec 23. The Spanish Ministry of Defence has ordered 16 Airbus C295 aircraft in Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) configuration and Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) configuration. The contract amounts to €1.695bn. These new aircraft will enable the Spanish Air and Space Force and the Spanish Navy to strengthen the national anti-submarine warfare capability as well as increase and enhance its surveillance, reconnaissance and search & rescue units.

“The aircraft will be fully designed and manufactured in Spain, fostering the national industrial defence footprint and sovereignty” said Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. “In particular, the Maritime Patrol version is the most complex C295 mission configuration to date. A major development project that will bring together the latest technologies to provide an operational advantage to our customer.”

The contract also includes training systems (Full Flight Simulator and Mission System Simulator) and an initial logistics support package.

The C295 MPA will conduct the missions performed by the P-3 Orion fleet, which were retired at the end of 2022. It will be equipped to carry out anti-submarine, anti-surface warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Likewise, it will be able to carry armaments such as torpedoes and other types of weapon systems.

The MPA configuration will be highly connected and will be able to operate in a collaborative mode with other platforms in different domains. The aircraft can become a flying command-and-control centre, providing the Spanish Armed Forces with the versatility to carry out a wide range of missions.

The C295 MSA is the natural replacement for the CN-235 VIGMA aircraft fleet, which have been in service with the Spanish Air and Space Force since 2008. It will be primarily equipped for maritime and overland operations such as anti-smuggling, anti-illegal immigration and anti-drug trafficking operations, as well as national and international search-and-rescue missions.

There will be a high degree of synergy between both configurations. The Spanish Air and Space Force also operates a fleet of 13 Airbus C295 in transport configuration.

The aircraft will be assembled at Airbus’ military facilities in Seville.

 

20 Dec 23. Cuashub.com said today that Frontex Announces Detection of Low-Flying Objects Winners. Frontex, the European Border, and Coast Guard Agency has announced the recipients of its Innovative Prize Award Contest focused on the Detection of Low-Flying Objects (LFOs). This pioneering contest underscores Frontex’s dedication to nurturing technological innovation in border security, particularly in response to challenges posed by the growing use of drones at EU borders for criminal activities.

“The increasing use of drones and other low-flying objects at our borders is not just a challenge; it’s a call to action. And at Frontex, we’re not just observing this trend; we’re actively responding with advanced and innovative solutions. The Prize Award Contest is a clear demonstration of our commitment to safeguarding Europe’s borders. Our proactive approach today is vital in shaping a safer and more secure Europe of tomorrow,” said Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens.

“The innovations we recognize today are not just technical solutions. They embody our ethos of combining efficiency with responsibility, ensuring that our border management strategies are as humane as they are effective,” he added.

After a rigorous series of operational trials, DAT-CON secured the top prize of EUR 250,000, Teledyne FLIR earned the second prize of EUR 200,000, and Marduk Technologies was awarded the third prize of EUR 150,000. Each winner demonstrated remarkable ingenuity in developing technologies that address the critical need for improved surveillance and detection of Low-Flying Objects (LFOs).

The operational trials, held at Ridali Airfield in Estonia from September 16 to October 6, 2023, marked the conclusive phase of the contest. In this final stage, the three finalists, previously selected in Phase 2, were tasked with deploying and operating their technologies in dynamic, real-world simulations. These rigorous tests, covering a range of LFO threats and tactics, challenged the finalists to push the boundaries of innovation in low-level airspace surveillance.

Innovation Awards Ceremony

The recipients of the Prize Award Contest for Low-Flying Objects were revealed during the Frontex Innovation Awards ceremony. Beyond being a moment of acknowledgment for the groundbreaking work of the winners, this ceremony, integral to Frontex’s broader innovation initiatives, underscored the agency’s proactive role in shaping the future of border management.

Additionally, the ceremony unveiled the final selection of four projects to receive grants under the Research Grants Programme. These grants, constituting part of the Frontex Research Grants Programme, offer a total of EUR 240,000 in funding to support technological research aligned with Frontex’s strategic priorities and technology development goals.

Frontex Low-Flying Objects Award Contest Information

Introduced one year ago, the Frontex Prize Award Contest exemplifies the agency’s proactive stance in promoting state-of-the-art technological solutions. The objective was to stimulate the development of cost-effective, scalable, and integrated capabilities for detecting, tracking, and identifying Low-Flying Objects (LFOs), a critical aspect in safeguarding the European Union (EU) borders.

This contest is an integral component of Frontex’s broader strategy to combat emerging threats at EU borders, particularly addressing the misuse of drones. By championing cutting-edge solutions, Frontex tackles current challenges and lays the groundwork for the future of border security, ensuring the safety and integrity of EU borders.

Through initiatives like the Prize Award Contest, Frontex establishes itself as a frontrunner in border security technologies. The agency remains committed to advancing solutions that are effective in addressing today’s challenges and adaptable to the evolving demands of border security.

https://cuashub.com/content/frontex-announces-detection-of-low-flying-objects-winners/?_hsmi=287261995&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_V2TiIUhRzWBrnxFgctgGToA6As8vXubqVoaI7auHd1fyY-NCUQeI7e8S_c2HCpnPhhxzV6TrmkpNNkCAXpzWa-YXIyq0acXs98Eey6pR2Y8fHWyk#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=287261995&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)

 

20 Dec 23. Poland Orders 24 Early Warning Radars for $785m. On December 19, a contract was signed for the supply of P-18PL early warning radars.

The subject of the contract is the delivery of 24 P-18PL early warning radars along with a logistics and training package. The agreement was concluded between the State Treasury – Armament Agency and the PGZ-NAREW Consortium composed of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa SA (leader), Huta Stalowa Wola SA, Jelcz Sp. z o. o., Mesko SA, Ośrodek Badawczo-Rozwojowy Centrum Techniki Mariskiej SA, PCO SA, PIT-Radwar SA, Wojskowe Zakłady Głosności No. 1 SA, Wojskowe Zakłady Ubezpieczenia SA, Wojskowe Zakłady Elektroniczne SA and Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów SA.

The value of the order is over PLN 3.1bn (approx. $785m–Ed.) gross. The contract will be implemented in the years 2027-2035, and the delivery of the first radars will begin in 2027 at the latest.

P-18PL early warning radars (RWW) are used to determine the location of targets at a maximum distance of several hundred kilometers for the WISŁA and Short-NAREW medium-range anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense systems.

The basic components of the RWW are three elements: (1) the WA-18 antenna vehicle, containing the antenna system, transmitting and receiving equipment, signal processing system, self-other identification system and auxiliary systems, (2) WW-18 indicator vehicle with local and a portable operator station, a system of communication devices and auxiliary systems, (3) the JZ-18 power unit, containing a double generator set, a power distribution system and auxiliary systems.

“Concluding a contract for the supply of over twenty P-18PL radars is another significant step in the construction of an integrated anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense system. Thanks to these radars, our system will gain completely new abilities to “identify” threats at very long distances. The P-18PL radars, acquired under the NAREW program, will be used not only for the short-range layer, but for the entire integrated system, as they will be a source of information for the integrated battle command system IBCS (Integrated Battle Command System).

“From a technical point of view, it is a very innovative structure that, using mature Yagi-Uda antenna technology and thanks to appropriate digital processing, will significantly increase the potential of anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense,” said Brig. Gen. Dr. Eng. Michał MARCINIAK, Deputy Head of the Armament Agency, representing the Ministry of National Defense for the Construction of the Integrated Anti-Aircraft and Anti-Missile Defense System.

The basic task of the NAREW system will be to provide cover for troops and facilities in the area of operations and air bases, as well as to complement the fire control system of the WISŁA anti-aircraft and anti-missile medium-range missile systems at low altitudes, to conduct national, allied and coalition operations in all conditions, during the day. and at night.

The NAREW kit will be intended primarily to combat piloted air attacks, cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles at low altitudes.

The construction of the integrated anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense system in all its layers was carried out primarily on the basis of the WISŁA program launched in March 2018, the framework agreement for the implementation of the NAREW program concluded in September 2021, and also on the basis of the agreement signed in April 2022.

The executive agreement for the acquisition of initial elements of the effector system as part of the “mała NAREW” project, the agreements concluded in March and April 2023 regarding the implementation of the PILICA+ program and the agreements of September this year for the supply of key elements for 23 NAREW sets, i.e. effectors and launchers cooperating with IBCS, as well as contracts for the acquisition of elements for six batteries of Phase II of the WISŁA program.

The NAREW sets will include: special vehicles, operational and combat control cabins, mobile communication nodes, optoelectronic sensors, rockets with launchers, transport and loading vehicles, training and logistics packages and radars which are the subject of development projects co-financed by NCBR, including the SAJNA multi-function fire control radar, P-18PL early target detection radar and PET/PCL passive location radars.

The construction of an integrated anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense system is a priority in the area of technical modernization of the Polish Armed Forces. The implementation of the above programs and the equipment acquired as part of them will provide not only capabilities that respond to threats on the contemporary and future battlefield, but will also translate into interoperability with other armies of the North Atlantic Alliance countries.

The NAREW program is the largest and most complex modernization program in the history of the Polish Armed Forces, with an estimated value of several dozen bn zlotys. It should be emphasized that its main contractor are companies from the Polish defense industry, for which the implementation of this contract is an opportunity to establish new and develop existing competences in the area of advanced weapons systems.

The implementation period and the volume of orders will also ensure the development of the capabilities of entities involved in the implementation of this program throughout the entire system life cycle, i.e. at the stages of production, delivery, subsequent servicing and modernization. (Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)

(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Polish Armament Agency; issued Dec. 19, 2023)

 

19 Dec 23. RTX’s Raytheon to Build Defensive Microwave Antenna Systems for U.S. Military. Raytheon will design, build and test two high-power microwave antenna systems that will use directed energy to defeat airborne threats at the speed of light. The systems are designed to be rugged and transportable for front-line deployment.

Under the three-year, $31.3m contract from the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, Raytheon will deliver prototype systems to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force as part of the Directed Energy Front-line Electromagnetic Neutralization and Defeat (DEFEND) program.

“Non-kinetic defense systems are a key part of America’s national defense strategy,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon. “The new iterations of Raytheon’s high-power microwave systems are cost-effective and reliable solutions that operate at the speed of light – enabling our warfighters to defend against faster and more maneuverable threats.”

Raytheon has been a leader in the use of high-power microwaves for nearly 80 years. The new HPM prototype systems build on Raytheon’s decades of experience developing capabilities like the Counter-Electronic High Power Microwave Extended Range Air Base Defense, known as CHIMERA.

Work on this contract is being conducted in Tucson, Arizona in partnership with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division and the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. Prototypes are expected to be delivered in fiscal years 2024 and 2026. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/RTX)

 

20 Dec 23. Philippines Air Force Accepts First Japanese-Supplied Air Defense Radar. Japanese Radar System Ups PH Capability to Detect Intrusions. The air surveillance radar system (ASRS) acquired by the Philippines from Japan will allow the country to detect intrusions within 300 nautical miles, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said Wednesday.

“This system is important because it will allow us to see within 300 nautical miles intrusions in our air space and in relation with our other systems, we will not only have a clearer picture of what’s happening in the WPS but of other areas in the in Philippines in its sea, air domain. We will know who is entering and what it is exactly,” Teodoro said during the acceptance, turnover and blessing ceremony of the ASRS, manufactured by the Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO), at the Wallace Air Station in San Fernando, La Union.

The DND chief said the ASRS deal highlights Japan’s “concrete steps and concrete actions” as a strategic partner of the Philippines.

“Today, we witnessed one of the concrete steps and concrete actions that our strategic partner Japan has done in order to firm our alliance particularly on the security side,” he added.

Teodoro also reiterated that the Philippines is the first ever recipient of Official Security Assistance from Japan which was pledged during the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the country in November this year.

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said the PHP5.5 bn (approx. $98.5 m–Ed.) ASRS deal with MELCO consists of three fixed FPS-3ME and a mobile TPS-P14ME.

These radar systems will be operated by the PAF’s 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing and is under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Horizon Plan 2.

The ASRS was procured via a government-to-government deal where the DND signed the project’s contract on Aug. 14, 2020.

The contract includes the radar platform with support facilities that includes radar tower and radome, command-and-control building, communications infrastructure, electric power generator building and housing for the mobile radar and its vehicles.

It also includes support vehicles for the mobile radar, training, maintenance facilities and initial integrated logistics support systems (ILS).

The PAF said the ASRS are designed for early warning, and land and maritime surveillance, whether for fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, or remotely piloted vehicles.

It also said the ASRS acquisition will enhance the country’s ability to monitor air and maritime activities in the region.

It will provide near-real time information and overall air situational picture for our strategic decision-makers in all spectrums of operations, thus making the PAF responsive to the national security requirements.

The pre-delivery inspection of the first unit of ASRS was conducted on Oct. 4 to 8, 2022, in Japan.

The first unit of the ASRS was delivered to the country on Dec. 7, 2022, which was followed by the construction and installation of radar tower and C-2 building that were undertaken in the succeeding months.

The MELCO radar passed the acceptance test last Oct. 24 and has been in use since then. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Philippine News Agency;)

 

19 Dec 23. Cuashub.com said today that Jeffs’ Brands Invests in Laser-Based Counter-Drone Technology. Jeffs’ Brands Ltd, a data-driven e-commerce firm operating on the Amazon Marketplace, has entered into a non-binding letter of intent with Sky Growth Partners Ltd. to invest in an innovative Digital Light Processing (DLP) laser-based system designed for counter-drone solutions, initially focusing on the defense sector.

As per MarketsandMarkets, the counter-drone market, encompassing laser, electronic, and kinetic systems for military, homeland security, and commercial platforms, was valued at $1.2bn in 2022 and is projected to reach $5.2bn by 2028.

According to the LOI disclosed on December 14, 2023, Sky Growth will establish and transfer all technology rights to a new Israeli company, NewCo, responsible for developing, manufacturing, and marketing the technology. After a $2m investment, Jeffs’ Brands will hold a 70% equity interest in NewCo. Additionally, under the LOI terms, the Company will provide a credit line of up to $250,000 with an 8% annual interest rate for NewCo’s utilization, subject to specified conditions. The LOI also outlines milestone conditions, if achieved by NewCo, which will grant founders additional equity interests in NewCo without additional consideration.

NewCo aims to develop a technological system based on a pending patent involving an electro-optical defense system combining laser and DLP technology. Upon successful development, the system will offer stationary or mobile dynamic protection, disrupting the operation of cameras on remotely operated drones and aircraft. The system’s applications include neutralizing drone attacks, safeguarding against commercial espionage, strategic infrastructure protection, and more for defense and commercial purposes.

The Investment is contingent on the successful completion of due diligence, execution of binding definitive agreements, and compliance with regulatory requirements and approvals. (Press Release)

About Jeffs’ Brands Ltd

Jeffs’ Brands is revolutionizing e-commerce by creating and acquiring products, transforming them into market leaders with untapped growth potential. Leveraging expertise in the FBA Amazon business model, the company utilizes human capability and advanced technology to elevate products. For more information, visit Jeffs’ Brands. (Source: https://cuashub.com/)

https://cuashub.com/content/jeffs-brands-invests-in-laser-based-counter-drone-technology/?_hsmi=287087887&_hsenc=p2ANqtz—-tJC_9KiYCkc8jjRz0BN9dB_kj6dAChwcutxmWo1x7K0sVDtQTE4EEhqH85MkHPNRh2NlofaN2KH5yilId0HLj0fO5jHrvXdfQVWm-NvNfPays8#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=287087887&utm_source=hs_email(Source: https://cuashub.com/)

 

18 Dec 23. US Department of Homeland Security seeks information on sensors for US/UK C-UAS CORE programme. The National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a request for information on 13 December 2023 for data on commercially available integrated systems with a C-UAS radar sensor and a pan-tilt-zoom camera.

The request, made in support of the C-UAS Capability Optimization Research Environment (CORE) – an international cooperative effort between the United States and United Kingdom to conduct C-UAS technology tests and demonstrations in multiple operational environments – will culminate in a capability demonstration in Texas, to be hosted by DHS in spring 2024. Pertinent characteristics include:

  • Technology must be fieldable for demonstration event; minimum TRL 7
  • Radar detection of UAS detection with operator alerting
  • IP 67: ingress protection against maritime environment
  • Automated EO/IR sensor slew-to-cue on UAS target integrated with radar detection
  • Establish and maintain target track with radar and EO/IR sensor
  • Re-acquire lost track
  • Hi-resolution EO/IR imaging to facilitate UAS identification and threat classification
  • Hi-resolution EO/IR imaging to facilitate payload identification and attributes
  • Automated or operator controlled EO/IR variable zoom for UAS identification and classification
  • EO/IR image stabilization for image quality, and to reduce or eliminate image jitter
  • Real-time sensor image display to support operator command and control
  • Closed loop tracking using Cursor on Target (CoT) sensor data output; prefer TAK compatibility
  • Operates in clutter-rich environments: Urban, rugged terrain, maritime, etc.

Responses are required by 16 January 2024.

For more information: https://sam.gov/opp/078c0851b1dd4eb9bdb638e0ed52b8a2/view

(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

18 Dec 23. Deadline extended for GBAD MADIS C-UAS Engagement System (CES) industry responses. The US Department of the Navy has issued a new tender deadline date relating to the M GBAD MADIS Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Engagement System (CES) (https://www.unmannedairspace.info/latest-news-and-information/us-navy-issues-tender-in-relation-to-us-marine-corps-madis-programme/), originally published on 7 November 2023 (https://sam.gov/opp/d1bc8b33d11a429889e5dd90ae2ee721/view).

Deadline for responses from industry has been moved from January 8 to January 22.

According to description of the programme:

“The FWS Inc 1 MADIS is comprised of two vehicles, one AN/MSY-2(v)1, Mk1 vehicle, and one AN/MSY-2(v)2, Mk2 vehicle. This system will provide a new and improved capability to mitigate the risk of attacks from Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Fixed Wing (FW)/Rotary Wing (RW) aircraft while maintaining pace with maneuver forces. Specifically, FWS Inc 1 MADIS provides Marine Air-Ground Task Force commanders short range ability to detect, track, identify, and defeat aerial threats. FWS Inc 1 MADIS focuses on the integration of command and control (C2) software with emerging and existing components integrated onto the Marine Corps JLTV HGC variant The AN/MSY-2(v)1 and AN/MSY-2(v)2 are complimentary in capability.  The Mk1 includes a counter aircraft and non-kinetic C-UAS capability, and the Mk2, which includes a detection, kinetic and non-kinetic C-UAS capability. The CES is an advanced, highly autonomous effector that can negate Group 1-3 UAS threats at significant ranges from the launch location.”

For more information: Login at https://piee.eb.mil and search for ‘M6785424R0056’ to obtain more details.

https://sam.gov/opp/75081f3fa62a4703acbbd8634d847671/view

(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

18 Dec 23. DroneShield Releases DroneSentry-C2 Tactical. 

  • DroneShield releases DroneSentry-C2 Tactical (DroneSentry-C2T) – an intuitive, tablet-based, command-and-control version of its DroneSentry-C2
  • DroneSentry-C2T allows central command-and-control level capabilities for field-based operators to maintain awareness of multiple portable, on-the-move and fixed site systems in their area of interest

. DroneShield (“DroneShield” or “the Company”)  released DroneSentry-C2 Tactical (DroneSentry-C2T), in response to significant end user demand.

DroneSentry-C2T is a ruggedised, on-the-edge version of DroneShield’s main Command-and-Control solution DroneSentry-C2. The system provides operators with real-time C-UAS situational awareness from a single device or network of DroneShield and third-party devices, such as the RfPatrol body worn drone detector and the DroneSentry-X on-the-move and expeditionary fixed site drone detection and defeat system.

DroneSentry-C2T provides an intuitive satellite map-based display, with 2-way communication between the user and the distributed network of counter-drone devices, demonstrating drone detections from a network of sensors back to a central point anywhere to a rugged user tablet, as well as ability (where lawful) to activate drone defeat systems.

The launch of the DroneSentry-C2 Tactical enables existing DroneShield end users to enhance their solutions as an ‘add-on’ capability. Additionally, the DroneSentry-C2 Tactical offers a new entry level C2 solution to customers who do not require the full DroneSentry solution.

Angus Bean, DroneShield’s CTO, commented “The release of the DroneSentry-C2 Tactical solution is in line with modern defence technology trends, pushing enhanced situational awareness and decision-making tools to the operator at ‘the edge’. It allows personnel on the ground to take a more strategic view of the area of operation.”

“DroneShield is both a sensor maker and a developer of C2/sensor integration systems, which enables us to provide an optimised experience for the end user. The release of the DroneSentry-C2T enables us to utilise our position as the global leader in the C-UAS handheld systems, and introduce world’s first command-and-control system for a hand-held C-UAS environment.”

“As we are seeing in Ukraine and other places around the world, handheld C-UAS devices enable cost-effective, mass-scale drone detection and defeat capability. DroneSentry-C2T enables to network these groups of devices together, without a limitation on size of the amount of devices, to provide central point of awareness and response, either in hands on a single master user, or distributing information amongst multiple users in the field.”

The product has recently completed successful trials with the US Department of Defense and is available for sale immediately.

 

19 Dec 23. Cambridge Sensoriis secures NATEP grant to deliver onboard detect and avoid system. Radar technology company Cambridge Sensoriis has been awarded a NATEP (National Aerospace Technology Exploitation Programme) grant to deliver an ultra-lightweight onboard Detection and Avoidance Radar Tracking (oDART) avionics system. oDART leverages micro radar technologies that have been specifically developed for low altitude flight onboard Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) and shall adapt and introduce these into crewed aircraft.

The radar technology is designed to support navigation, collision avoidance, and airspace deconfliction, during the critical take-off and landing phases of flight. Few competing micro–Air-To-Air Radar (ATAR) exist, and those that do have been designed for light-aircraft obstacle detection at high altitudes and are often ineffective at lower altitudes.

Cambridge Sensoriis is the project lead of this 18-month project which launched in June 2023, and id supported by other funded project partners, including ARPAS-UK members Across Safety Development and TEKTowr. Across Safety Development are specialists in safety management and regulatory affairs, providing expertise across all aspects of the aviation industry, and have facilitated CAA approvals for numerous projects in the UK and abroad.

High frequency radar provides excellent all weather object detection performance but has traditionally been large and expensive. Cambridge Sensoriis has designed a low Size, Weight, Power, and cost (SWaPc) radar, suitable for object detection, including distinguishing between low flying small aircraft and ground-based structures like cranes, larger antenna, or electricity pylons. oDART supports reduced crew operation – part of the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Advanced Systems stream – by providing greater and relevant situational awareness of flying and ground-based obstructions. Resilient pilot supporting systems are essential, especially within congested urban airspace, says Cambridge Sensoriis.

Project oDART falls within the ATI strategy of accelerating the introduction of novel aircraft platforms to establish the UK as a global leader for Net Zero aerospace. For more information visit: www.cambsensoriis.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

18 Dec 23. Cuashub.com said today that Aloft Air Aware Replaces B4UFLY App. Aloft Technologies, Inc., a pioneer in drone fleet and airspace management, has announced the launch of Air Aware, a revolutionary leap forward in airspace situational awareness. This cutting-edge application is an all-encompassing replacement for the B4UFLY app, providing users with comprehensive, real-time insights before, during, and after drone operations. Notably, the launch of Air Aware is particularly timely, aligning with Aloft’s founding on December 17th—the historic anniversary of the Wright brothers’ powered flight in Kitty Hawk, NC. This strategic launch positions Aloft to welcome the influx of new drone pilots traditionally observed joining the Aloft platform post-holiday season.

“Airspace safety isn’t simply about the moments before takeoff anymore. With Air Aware, we’re redefining situational awareness to encompass the entire flight lifecycle,” said Jon Hegranes, Founder & CEO of Aloft. “This is the evolution of our commitment to advancing drone safety and our collective march to the true integration of drones into the national airspace system.”

Since forging a partnership with the FAA in 2019 to power their B4UFLY application, Aloft has played a pivotal role in facilitating over 30 m airspace requests. The wealth of expertise and extensive scale achieved through this collaboration is now encapsulated in the newly introduced Air Aware application. Crafted as a next-generation tool, Air Aware is meticulously designed to offer unparalleled support to drone pilots by enriching safety and compliance through dynamic, real-time data.

This innovative application incorporates Aloft’s widely adopted Notify & Fly capabilities, a feature voluntarily utilized by pilots hundreds of thousands of times to transparently share their flight activity with fellow airspace users and stakeholders.

Noteworthy is Air Aware’s integration of cutting-edge educational content through a strategic partnership with the Pilot Institute—an esteemed FAA-approved TRUST provider. This collaboration is geared towards enhancing the knowledge and readiness of drone pilots across all skill levels. Aloft expresses anticipation for further expanding the technical capabilities and educational content within Air Aware.

“Our partnership with Aloft on Air Aware will equip drone pilots with the knowledge and tools they need to fly safely,” said Greg Reverdiau, co-founder of Pilot Institute.

Highlighting Aloft’s commitment to innovation, Air Aware will be the focal point for future updates and developments, signaling the end of new updates by Aloft for the B4UFLY application. This shift ensures that users have access to the most advanced tools in the industry. Air Aware is not simply the next-generation replacement of B4UFLY, but it’s a platform that Aloft wants to evolve with the help of the Aloft and Pilot Institute communities. Below is a link to a survey to help us on that journey. Aloft would appreciate your feedback and input for new features and the direction of Air Aware.

Fill out (and bookmark:) this form at https://pilotinstitute.typeform.com/to/zC9Ad7BG

Available today!

You can download Air Aware from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store or use it on the web at https://airaware.aloft.ai.

About Pilot Institute

Pilot Institute has trained over 250,000 drone and airplane pilots across the United States. They aim to bridge the gap between uncrewed and manned aviation and increase safety. Pilot Institute is an FAA Safety Team Industry Member and an FAA Authorized test administrator for The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).

About Aloft

Aloft Technologies, Inc., founded in 2015, is at the forefront of drone fleet and airspace management. Powering over 80% of all drone airspace authorizations, Aloft’s patented dynamic airspace platform is integral to the Aloft UTM, establishing it as the #1 FAA-approved LAANC UAS Service Supplier (USS), which to date has powered over 1 m airspace authorizations. Aloft’s diverse user base and clientele spans the recreational, commercial, government, law enforcement, and advanced air mobility sectors.

Air Aware is the latest edition to Aloft’s UTM platform that also includes Air Control – for advanced fleet, team, and airspace management, and Geo – for public safety and other verified agencies to publish safety and compliance information directly onto the Aloft airspace maps.

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Echodyne is a U.S. designer and manufacturer of advanced commercial radar solutions for defense and national security applications. The company’s proprietary metamaterials electronically scanned array (MESA®) architecture, a rare breakthrough in advanced radar engineering, leverages a physics-design approach to adapt conventional materials and deliver unexpected and beneficial behavior. The result is a solid-state, low-SWaP unit coupled with advanced software capabilities that delivers superior radar performance and unparalleled data integrity, radically improving system performance and enhancing safety for people and machines. With leading positions in counter-UAS, force protection, base security, and portable ISR, Defense Agencies and Suppliers rely on Echodyne radar for extraordinary accuracy and consistent, reliable operation. For more information, please visit: Echodyne.com.

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