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22 Feb 24. Foreign firms vie for South Korea’s airborne early warning contract. Several international vendors are intent on helping South Korea bolster its airborne early warning and control capability, as the country’s Air Force plans to spend at most $2.26bn on four aircraft.
After the Defense Acquisition Program Administration issued a request for proposals in November, companies had until Feb. 22 to submit their bids.
South Korea is taking on more self-defense responsibilities from the U.S., and the new quartet of AEW&C aircraft will supplement four Boeing E-737 planes delivered around the 2011-2012 time frame. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration said the new platforms would enhance the South’s “ability to monitor North Korean missiles and defend its airspace.”
Boeing is competing with a 737-based platform again, its E-7 having the advantage of aerial refueling to give on-station times stretching to 20 hours.
“Regarding the capability, the unmatched E-7 multirole electronically scanned array radar sensing and tracking provides the most powerful multidomain surveillance, communications and networked battle-management capabilities of any aircraft,” a Boeing spokesperson told Defense News.
The American company, which is the fifth-largest defense contractor in the world, said the E-7 “is production-ready and offers lower operating and sustainment costs, higher mission readiness rates, and unmatched interoperability.”
Boeing executives at South Korea’s Seoul ADEX defense expo last year claimed a 96% availability rate for the E-7. They also highlighted commonality with existing Korean E-737s. “In addition to crew training efficiencies, the E-7 offers life-cycle cost savings inherent with fleet continuity and a global, common logistics model.”
Saab’s GlobalEye is also competing, with the Swedish company proposing a Bombardier Global 6500 airframe.
Saab believes its design, which mounts an Erieye extended-range radar atop the fuselage, is ideal for South Korea’s Air Force. As well as a hot production line, Saab touted its willingness to transfer technology to enhance Korea’s strategic independence. It also highlighted rapid delivery and affordability.
Saab is the 33rd biggest defense contractor worldwide.
The other contender is American firm L3Harris Technologies in tandem with Korean Air and Israel Aerospace Industries. Its Phoenix solution also uses a Global 6500 and integrates Elta Systems-made conformal radars and artificial intelligence algorithms. L3Harris claimed its design will have low sustainment costs and at least a 95% operational availability rate.
L3Harris is the ninth-largest defense company in the world, while IAI lands at 29. The former noted that an initial two aircraft would undergo modifications in Texas before receiving radar integration in Israel. Korean Air would lead work on the two remaining aircraft in-country, as well as perform sustainment.
“Through L3Harris’ agreements with Korean Air, LIG Nex1 and Ace Antenna, and ongoing discussions with additional Korean partners, the team intends that the aircraft and mission system equipment will be fully supported in Korea,” a spokesperson for the group told Defense News. “This … paves the way for independent domestic research and development, and fostering excellence in aircraft system integration, upgrades and modifications, which will contribute significantly to the advancement of South Korea’s research and development program.”
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration declined to provide Defense News with further details. The agency is now proceeding with evaluations. (Source: Defense News)
22 Feb 24. General Radar Corporation Launches Radar-as-a-Service to Monitor Airborne Threats. General Radar Corporation, a US-based developer and manufacturer of high-resolution and long-range multi-mission Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) phased array radars, today announced the launch of a transformative and cost-effective solution to the traditional radar market. This launch reflects General Radar’s commitment to delivering a critical capability to detect and track an increasing number of airborne targets, including aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, balloons and emerging threats for its commercial and government customers.
Radar-as-a-Service (RaaS) redefines how traditional ground-based radar has been developed and built, often taking a decade to source, procure and deploy to the field. The demand for high accuracy long-range radars has increased dramatically due to the evolution and proliferation of a new class of civilian and military threats, from bomb-carrying drones to hypersonic missiles. To keep up with this demand, General Radar’s RaaS can be sourced, procured and deployed in an accelerated way due to their commercial-first approach.
“The rapid evolution of threats facing the US and its allies, as well as the aerospace and defense sector, requires state-of-art sensing technology that can be developed and fielded in an accelerated, cost-effective and flexible manner,” said CEO and founder Dmitry Turbiner. “We are excited to provide a contractor-owned, operated and financed solution along with a rapid method of delivery to protect from the threats of today and tomorrow.”
The aerospace and defense sector is one of the fastest-growing areas for businesses, as evidenced by the growth of air mobility, including drones and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. By embracing the changing aerospace and defense landscape, General Radar is leading the charge in advancing a high-resolution long-range phased-array radar system able to detect and track hundreds of airborne objects leveraging advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
General Radar utilizes private funding with expert knowledge in aerospace and defense to design, test, manufacture and deploy its radars more rapidly. General Radar’s method of delivery is rapid and cost-effective. General Radar’s supply chain is US based and core intellectual property used is not co-owned or jointly developed with any other company or public funding. The RaaS acquisition mode land cost-effective radars allow for broader use of advanced radars by the commercial and government sector.
About General Radar Corp.
Founded in 2016 in Silicon Valley, California, General Radar Corp. has developed and is deploying a new type of commercial aerospace AESA radar that is scalable, high-power, long-range, multi-mission and features supercomputing. General Radar systems can meet or exceed the performance of existing DoD systems, at a fraction of the price. This combination of advanced capabilities without the large up front capital expenses, red tape and slow time to deployment of traditional developmental radar systems is revolutionizing how agencies and companies can access radar data and coverage. By democratizing powerful long-range radars, we’re opening up exciting new applications in defense, energy, weather, agriculture, and other sectors.
(Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
21 Feb 24. Teledyne FLIR, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, is showcasing two new Thermal by FLIR products with collaborators Blackview and RealWear at Mobile World Congress (MWC). The new rugged BL9000 Pro 5G mobile phone from Blackview and the new RealWear Navigator™ Z1 assisted-reality wearable feature the FLIR Lepton® 3.5 thermal micro camera module.
Ruggedized Mobile Handset from Blackview
The new Blackview BL9000 Pro features MyFLIR® Pro, the most advanced user application in the market. The upgraded app empowers BL9000 Pro users with the patented image processing capability, VividIR™, along with advanced features including temperature alerts, isotherms, and MSX® intensity adjustment to view thermal images in greater detail. The BL9000 Pro can also interface with the Teledyne FLIR Mobile SDK for Android OS, allowing for approved third party apps and enterprise software integration.
“This is the only handset on the market with the latest Android 14, FLIR Lepton 3.5, 5G connectivity, and MyFLIR Pro advanced thermal ecosystem offerings, making it the ultimate smartphone device for getting the job done in harsh environments,” said David Xu, founder, general manager, and CEO, Blackview. “We are proud to launch an enhanced, ruggedized handset that provides a masterful blend of practicality and innovation in technology and design.”
Assisted Reality Wearable from RealWear
RealWear’s Navigator Z1 hands-free headset is the first intrinsically safe assisted-reality thermal product built for oil and gas professionals in production environments. The Z1 allows for hands-free communication and two-way data sharing that revolutionizes knowledge sharing while tackling operational inefficiencies and mitigating safety risks. RealWear’s hardware and software, enabled by the power of the FLIR Lepton 3.5, provide streamlined workflows in the most hazardous of environments.
Comprehensive Support for Thermal Advancement
“It is always impressive to see the new ways that our innovative Thermal by FLIR collaborators integrate our camera modules and use our experience to develop cutting-edge, high-value products to industry and consumers,” said Mike Walters, vice president, uncooled thermal imaging camera cores, Teledyne FLIR.
Thermal by FLIR program collaborators benefit from more than four decades of dedicated thermal industry expertise, gaining assistance across every stage of product exploration from development to marketing. For additional information on the Thermal by FLIR program, visit https://www.flir.com/oem/thermal-by-flir/.
21 Feb 24. Cuashub.com said today that DIA Report- Iran Enables Houthi Attacks in the Middle East. The product by the Defense Intelligence Agency features a visual comparison between Iranian missiles and weaponized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and those exhibited and employed by Houthi forces in Yemen for assaults on civilian infrastructure in the region. The photographs indicate a strong likelihood of the weapons having Iranian origins, considering those displayed and used by both Iran and the Houthis, as well as those illicitly transported by sea from Iran. Iranian support has facilitated the Houthis’ campaign of missile and UAV attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea since November 2023. As of mid-December 2023, major global shipping companies have suspended transit through the Red Sea due to perceived risks.
Publication Date– February 2024
Iran Enabling Houthi Attacks Across the Middle East contains the following major sections:
- Introduction
- UAV Systems
- Missile Systems
- Sources
https://cuashub.com/content/dia-report-iran-enables-houthi-attacks-in-the-middle-east/?_hsmi=295040580&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-81i9uBSK44mjkO_CFf3JTTYBYeziJBhN0lwI7WVFhPd5Fs39tTF__oHYUG8XKrfh78j5AwEJhnQTlxSKS-uK6oTiC4zZK3nEGBsfGzVM6AsIfUWXU#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=295040580&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
21 Feb 24. KME attended IAV 2024, where innovation, collaboration and groundbreaking technology took centre stage. As enthusiasts of Armoured Vehicle displays, this year’s conference was particularly special for us, marked by a dynamic collaboration with our partner, Getac.
At the heart of our showcase was an epic stand featuring an open architecture vehicle mock-up, designed to highlight a range of pivotal features. One standout piece was the Getac UX10, equipped with a KME NVIS class A upgrade and fixed to a detachable mount. This innovative setup allows for multipurpose use, enabling the device to be seamlessly removed from the vehicle for other tasks. Imagine the flexibility this brings to the battlefield, enhancing operational efficiency.
Adding to the allure was a fully NVIS compliant display from KME, currently employed in another UK programme. Displayed as a relaxed viewing interface for a machine gun with thermal sensor, this combination offers soldiers a remarkably low signature on the battlefield. Such advancements significantly contribute to increased survivability, a crucial aspect in modern peer on peer warfare.
Our stand was not just about hardware; it was a showcase of partnerships and integrations. We were delighted to present a video interview between Jock Hewit, KME’s UK Sales Manager, and Phil Campion, ex-SAS operator and Getac brand ambassador. Their insightful discussion can be found below:
Moreover, KME joined forces with Ultra PCS, incorporating the GVA software on a Getac UX10. This integration allows the driver or commander access to familiar GVA features, enhancing the platform’s capabilities. To delve deeper into this collaboration, watch the video interview below between Sam Wills, KME’s VP of Sales and Marketing, and John Puddy, Ultra PCS Head of Rapid Technology Development:
During the show, the KME team led a closed-door presentation and panel discussion with the MOD and selected primes.
This provided an exclusive opportunity to explore the features showcased on our stand in greater detail, emphasising our commitment to technological advancements and collaborative engagement.
IAV 2024 was undeniably a colossal success, and we invite anyone with an interest in armoured vehicles displays to reach out. If there’s any way we can assist you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
19 Feb 24. RNLA’s first GM200 MM/C radar demonstrated during live firings. The first Ground Master 200 Multi Mission/Compact (GM200 MM/C) radar handed over to the Royal Netherlands Army (RNLA) by Thales in Hengelo on 14 February was demonstrated during live firings at the Dutch Ministry of Defence’s Harde firing range the next day.
The Multi-Mission Radar (MMR), as it is designated in RNLA service, tracked 81 mm mortar rounds and 155 mm Panzerhaubitze (PzH) shells fired at the range, as well as a pair of Puma unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with their trajectories and flightpaths shown in 2D and 3D on large-screen displays to an international military audience, local journalists, and Janes. Also displayed in 2D were the tracks of airliners flying above at an altitude of 3 km, but clutter from birds was filtered out. The Puma UAVs could also be seen moving away from the PzH 2000s’ trajectories.
The MMR was able to determine the points of origin and impact of the mortar and artillery fire, which began with fire for effect and ended with salvos. (Source: Janes)
20 Feb 24. Cuashub.com said today that High Point Adds Flex Force to Its Drone Security Portfolio. High Point Aerotechnologies (“High Point”), a portfolio company of Highlander Partners, today announced the acquisition of Portland, Oregon-based Flex Force Enterprises (“Flex Force”). Flex Force is a pioneer in drone defeat and countermeasure technologies and makes the widely known Dronebuster counter-unmanned aircraft system (c-UAS) jammer. This strategic acquisition expands High Point’s extensive arsenal of drone mitigation solutions and reinforces its position at the forefront of the rapidly growing drone security market.
Flex Force marks Highlander’s third acquisition in the Counter-UAS technologies sector, bringing a distinctive and proven portable drone defense capability to High Point Aerotechnologies.
Since 2016, Flex Force has delivered innovative drone defense and remote and stabilized weapons solutions for governments around the world. Its novel technologies in robotics, signal processing, and software are used by law enforcement agencies, military organizations, and private security companies globally. The Dronebuster, a compact, lightweight, and cost-effective counter-drone tool, is the most widely deployed handheld system in the world and adds another configuration to High Point’s robust product family.
“The acquisition of Flex Force underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering our clients with the full array of cutting-edge technologies, ensuring they defend with confidence,” stated Al White, CEO of High Point. “A variety of layered defense solutions is required to address the drone threats of today and tomorrow, and I am looking forward to what our teams will build together.”
“We are incredibly excited to join forces with High Point,” said Flex Force Founder and CEO Jacob Sullivan. “U.S. and allied governments have deployed their solutions around the globe for years to defend their most critical assets. As the threat posed by drones expands beyond armed conflict, we look forward to continuing to develop cost-effective and innovative solutions for our partners.”
Ben Slater, Chairman of High Point Aerotechnologies, commented, “This acquisition demonstrates our continued commitment to developing a leading presence across the UAS and c-UAS markets. Flex Force, with its highly innovative approach to drone defense and strong partnerships across the military and security industries, will be a key asset to our efforts for years to come.”
Slater added, “As the global field of defense technology continues to accelerate rapidly, we are committed to advancing the capabilities of the United States and its allies with a focus on interoperable, attritable solutions and scaled manufacturing across a growing offering of UAS, c-UAS and software/AI products.”
About High Point Aerotechnologies
High Point Aerotechnologies is a global leader in counter-uncrewed autonomous systems (CUxS) solution development across air, land, and maritime domains. Its innovative physical solutions and DefenseOS open architecture software environment enable operations at machine speed to detect, identify, track, and defeat UAS and other conventional and autonomous threats. High Point offers an array of integrated, interoperable solutions to provide fixed, mobile, and distributed CUxS capabilities for civilian, military, and critical infrastructure clients. High Point has active solutions deployed in more than 15 countries worldwide. Learn more at highpointaerotech.com.
About Highlander Partners
Highlander Partners, L.P. is a Dallas-based private investment firm with more than $3 bn in assets under management. The firm focuses on making investments in businesses in targeted industries in which the principals of the firm have significant operating and investing experience. Highlander Partners employs a buy and build investment approach, creating value by helping companies grow both organically and through acquisitions. For more information, visit www.highlander-partners.com.
https://cuashub.com/content/high-point-adds-flex-force-to-its-drone-security-portfolio/?_hsmi=294862348&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–nqW8dW7xjLTDJQBV6vtHrKfWM_NWvHUeMXYalao5X57edFZz3zliBXh7T9hICP1CajQ_jmBSwDjx0dxUMe5imkjfsZFnpeok5ySJ3j2N2GCAN6-8#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=294862348&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
20 Feb 24. Cuashub.com said today that Canada Upgrades Air Defense and Counter-Drone Capabilities.
In a press release late last week, the Canadian Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Bill Blair, disclosed that Canadian Armed Forces personnel stationed in NATO’s Canada-led Battle Group in Latvia will soon have access to two newly acquired defensive capabilities. This swift acquisition of equipment is designed to enhance the overall defensive capacity of the Battle Group, thereby reinforcing the deterrence capabilities of soldiers hailing from various contributing nations.
To begin, a commitment of $227.5 m from Canada is underway to establish an Air Defence capability for members of the Canadian Armed Forces stationed in Latvia. Saab Canada Inc. has been awarded contracts to procure the RBS 70 NG short-range Air Defence System, furnishing Canadian troops in Latvia with tactical air defense protection. This capability equips Canadian forces to safeguard against fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters within its operational range, close air support aircraft, and class 1 small Uncrewed Aerial Systems and larger Uncrewed Aerial Systems. Notably, this marks the first instance since 2012 that the Canadian Armed Forces will possess an Air Defence capability, with the initial systems anticipated to be delivered later this year.
Additionally, Canada is directing a $46 m investment towards acquiring advanced counter-drone equipment. This initiative aims to enhance protection for Canadian Armed Forces members engaged in Operation REASSURANCE, specifically against hostile Class 1 UAS (small drones). The new equipment will facilitate the detection, identification, tracking, and defeat of drones, ensuring improved freedom of action for land operations. Anticipated to achieve initial operational capability later this year, the project encompasses the delivery of counter-UAS systems, command and control hardware and software, sensors, and non-kinetic effectors, as well as in-service support and training.
Canada Reaffirms the Importance of NATO
Minister Blair unveiled these acquisitions at a NATO Defence Ministers meeting in Brussels, Belgium. He highlighted the significance of these new capabilities in bolstering NATO’s defense and deterrence stance on Canada’s eastern flank, where Canada spearheads NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia. This move is part of Canada’s commitment outlined in the July 2023 Roadmap on Scaling the eFP Latvia Battle Group to Brigade, as the country aims to more than double its military presence on Operation REASSURANCE, increasing from approximately 1,000 troops to a persistent deployment of up to 2,200 troops by 2026.
“Canada’s support for the NATO Alliance is steadfast. By investing in Air Defence and anti-drone capabilities for Canadian troops, we are also bolstering the defensive capabilities of the NATO Battle Group in Latvia as a whole,” said The Honourable Bill Blair. “Through our leadership of the Battle Group in Latvia and our many other contributions to NATO – including our current participation in Exercise Steadfast Defender – Canada will continue to work with our Allies to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security.”
The Path Forward
After a competitive procurement process, the Government of Canada has awarded three contracts to Saab Canada Inc. totaling $227.5m (excluding taxes) to acquire the RBS 70 NG Soldier Portable Air Defence (AD) System as an Urgent Operational Requirement. These contracts encompass the systems, supporting ammunition, and in-service support.
Additionally, progress is underway on the Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) project, enabling the Canadian Armed Forces to counter threats posed by rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) munitions, air-to-surface missiles (ASM) and bombs, and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), with attack aircraft and helicopters as secondary targets. The GBAD project is currently in the definition phase, following a competitive procurement process that concluded on January 12, 2024.
In another competitive procurement process for Phase 1 of the Counter-UAS Project, contracts totaling $46m were awarded for acquiring and supporting dismounted and fixed-site systems. These include a $2m contract to TRD Systems for ORION-H9 dismounted directional systems, a $19m contract to CACI Inc. for CACI BEAM 3.0 omni-directional systems, and a $25m contract to Leonardo UK Ltd. for Falcon Shield fixed-site systems.
The Soldier-Portable Air Defence (AD) Systems project adheres to Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, ensuring meaningful business activities and targeted investments to stimulate growth in the Canadian defense industry. These economic commitments are estimated to contribute $40m annually to the Canadian GDP and sustain or create 350 jobs annually over six years.
Canada remains committed to supporting NATO, leading the multinational NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia, providing maritime support, offering advisory support to NATO Mission Iraq, and contributing personnel to the NATO-led peace support operation in Kosovo through Operation KOBOLD. In support of Ukraine, Operation UNIFIER, Canada’s military training and capacity-building mission, has trained approximately 40,000 members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) since 2015. Canada has committed over $9.5 bn in total assistance to Ukraine since February 2022, including $2.4 bn in military aid. It is actively negotiating long-term security commitments in alignment with the 2023 G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine.
https://cuashub.com/content/canada-upgrades-air-defense-and-counter-drone-capabilities/?_hsmi=294862348&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–_k9c7k9lZ5FseKJIfW5yzezr7FcEJqvb9WDckYw2fKHfsnCTFudYZ2r_GdCJxq-VN0Q0OaswdYJ5EwHCY9W1-MorpAJm3nbzAxy-EEUN0PxMbeGk#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=294862348&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
19 Feb 24. PowerLight’s CEO on Power Beaming Lasers.
In 2023, PowerLight Technologies was selected to work on the Luna Architecture 10 (LunA-10) power energy transmission infrastructure initiative with the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and Blue Origin, developing laser-based wireless power transmission technology for supporting a future lunar presence on the moon.
Richard Gustafson, President and CEO of PowerLight Technologies, and Tom Nugent, the company’s CTO, sat down with Airforce Technology to discuss PowerLight’s work with the US military, including transmitting power to high-altitude drones as part of a separate DARPA contract, and powering US Army remote sensors using Directed Energy (DE) weapons during the long periods when these powerful counter-drone armaments are idle.
“In the defence sector, as missions have become more vertical and more distributed, the issue of delivering power has become a ‘premium’, and a gap to fill,” said Gustafson. “Over a decade of hard science, test validation, and demonstrations in outdoor operational environments, really gave the credibility of this technology being real and viable,” he added.
These validation processes have seen PowerLight use wireless laser power to keep a drone aloft for 48 continuous hours, and directed laser energy along optical fibres to power a submersible Remotely Operated Vessel (ROV).
“The key program in front of us right now is power beaming to the stratosphere for high-altitude drones,”
said Gustafson, remarking on Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER), the DARPA project to advance power beaming through the stratosphere to deliver power for global operations, in conjunction with Raytheon and Draper.
Ahead of a demonstration of laser power beaming in space as part of the scheduled US Department of Defense Space Test Program, in March 2023, Chris DePuma, Space Wireless Energy Laser Link (SWELL) Program Manager at the US Naval Research Laboratory said that,
“Power beaming is poised as a critical enabler for power distribution on the moon and elsewhere in space.”
Dual-use Directed Energy Weapons
In June 2023, in conjunction with US Naval Research Laboratories, PowerLight demonstrated the use of the DE weapons to transmit power to a remote location.
A direct example of the application of this new use is in the establishment of perimeter sensors and communications nodes at a new site.
“Rather than having to send people out to regularly change batteries or refill generators, where they’re more exposed, or taking as long as it would take to set out wire, you can immediately place them and start having them get powered, providing that situational awareness or communications while the DE weapon is looking for potential incoming drones,” said Nugent.
In conversation with the Department of Defense, Gustafson was told that while the US had been investing bns of dollars in DE lasers, they were idle “99.9% of the time”, waiting to target and disable adversary drones.
“So the opportunity was, ‘Might they be able to do another mission, and that could be potentially providing optical power?’ And so we took that program on,” said Gustafson.
“It’s convenient that the near infrared range where we have been doing power beaming overlaps with the range of where many of the directed energy weapons currently operate at,” said Nugent.
“By having supplemental power we’ve been told it’s a game changer opportunity, to have these platforms in the stratosphere, fully topped off for power to be able to be fully operational.”
Nugent was a co-founder of PowerLight, along with his late-colleague, Dr. Jordan Kerr, starting the company after winning a NASA competition in 2009. He acknowledges that power beaming as a concept has existed for decades, with early work on microwave power beaming starting in the 1990’s. Since that time, laser technology has advanced through efforts to introduce the tools into the production of industrial materials, but the innovation from PowerLight’s R&D has been in receiver design.
“We’ve done a lot on that to make large arrays that are able to be as efficient and robust and lightweight and reliable as possible,” said Nugent, “within the limits of the the current semiconductor technology for those photovoltaic cells.”
This achievement amounts to a 18-fold reduction in size of the receiver, reducing the payload demand on aerial systems. These advancement have seen the US Military install PowerLight’s receivers onto high-altitude drones that would otherwise rely on solar power and daylight to operate, and do not generate enough power from the sun to sustain themselves for day and night-time operations.
“By having supplemental power we’ve been told it’s a game changer opportunity, to have these platforms in the stratosphere, fully topped off for power to be able to be able to be fully operational,” said Gustafson.
LunA-10 Initiative to Power Infrastructure on the Moon
The LunA-10 project is among the first of its kind from DARPA, bringing 14 Prime organisations together to talk transparently about architecture interfaces, open standards, and the economics of a permanent lunar mission, establishing infrastructure to assist further missions in space for the US national interest, with PowerLight Technologies joining the initiative under Blue Origin.
“When people look around and try and find out who to talk to about long distance power beaming, the various groups who know point them all towards us. That’s the brief summary of how we got to be joined by Blue Origin for this LunA-10 program,” said Nugent.
Within the initiative, teams bring their own proprietary technology and understanding to discussions on building infrastructure on the moon. DARPA is focused on this end, and is looking to these 14 companies to provide guidance on what the end users will need and how this can be provided.
“It’s different from later stage technology development from the DoD, where they have more direction on exactly how they want things to be developed,” says Nugent.
“The Lunar economy is yet to be seen . . . but there’s also the geopolitical race to get up there.”
“These teams work together on the assumption that a lunar infrastructure economy will have transportation and communication and power and all these other services that would not, in general, be provided by a single company. Those are the things that are different for how LunA -10 is being run by DARPA compared, in our experience at least, with some other defence projects.”
The question of what a lunar economy fully entails is still a subject of debate, and the size of the answer is a matter of trillions of dollars, according to Nugent. There is a belief that the growing commercial development in launch capabilities will bring more ability to send more materials and personnel to the moon. The water in the water ice that has been found in the lunar poles has raised interest in as a useful resource for sending missions further out into the solar system.
“I’m not gonna go through all of the list of things people said they could do on the moon that might be economical, but the real answer is nobody really knows yet. You have to break the chicken and egg problem,” said Nugent. “If you can start developing a little bit there, the expectation in my mind is you will learn what the value is on the Moon, whether it is just resources, or being able to go further into the solar system, or if there’s things people want to do there for science.”
“The commercial lunar economy is yet to be seen,” says Gustafson, adding there is a lot of of potential, and a lot of hope. “But there’s also the geopolitical race to get up there.”
Gustafson sees some sustainment activity on the moon as very likely to happen.
“And for that to happen . . . there’s got to be a central foundational capability up there. In all sorts of different strategy documents the discussions are ‘How do you sustain anything in space or on the moon?’ And power is going to be a central piece of that.”
Top Photo: Aerial nodes can act as a network between ground-based energy suppliers and users. Image courtesy of PowerLight Technologies
(Source: UAS VISION/Airforce Technology)
19 Feb 24. Serbia “receives Repellent C-UAS systems and other combat assets from Russia, despite international sanctions.”
Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia, has announced receipt of the Russian anti-drone systems known as Repellent, as well as a significant quantity of other military systems, according to AP.
Serbia stands alone in Europe, having refused to join EU sanctions against Russia after the invasion of Ukraine and remaining the only European power continuing to sign cooperation agreements with Moscow. The AP report suggests that the equipment, including the ground-based Repellent EW system, may have been in-country for several months, alongside combat vehicles, UAS, infantry weapons and equipment for internal security agencies. Serbia has apparently been informed that membership of the EU will be dependent on issues such as adherence to sanctions.
Although the nation remains heavily dependent on Russia and China for military equipment, there are signs that the government is seeking to boost Serbia’s self-reliance. “We are now investing EUR300 m in the products of domestic industry that enter our army. Only in domestic industry and products,” said Vučić. He highlighted the Tamnava multiple rocket launcher, which he expects to be in Serbian Army service before the end of this year, and the Nora B52 155mm self-propelled artillery system as examples of domestically-manufactured products.
The Repellent EW system, mounted on a MAZ truck chassis, completed developed in 2016 and has reported capabilities for detection and tracking of small UAS targets at ranges of 30-35km, although its ability to suppress drone signals appears to be limited to ranges of little more than two kilometres. Criticism of the system includes comments from Armenian government that “it simply does not work” against Turkish and Israeli drones. On the other hand, “It is not as strong as Krasuha, but it is excellent,” said Vučić.
For more information: Serbia acquires another batch of Russian weapons despite international sanctions, AP (msn.com) (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
19 Feb 24. Two Australian companies to participate in Canadian C-UAS exercise. The EOS Titanic C-UAS system (above) and AIM Defence’s Fractal (top). Images, Electro Optic Systems and AIM Defence
Two Australian Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS) companies have been selected to participate in the third edition of the Canadian Department of National Defence’s 2024 C-UAS Sandbox exercise in May and June. This year’s event is centred on detecting and defeating Micro and Mini UAS.
Participants will demonstrate advanced prototypes with potential for post-Sandbox development and funding. The challenge focuses on integrating these technologies into military command and control systems and includes specific operational scenarios and methodologies. Prizes are also awarded for innovative solutions, and a new CUAS Concept development section is seeking funding for low Technology Readiness Level concepts.
AIM Defence’s Fractl high-power laser system will be pitted against Canada’s ‘Red Team’ drones in a series of real-world test scenarios at the 2024 C-UAS Sandbox, hosted under Canada’s Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program.
And Canberra-based Electro Optic Systems will return to the sandbox, having previously taken part in 2022. The company this year will demonstrate its Titanis integrated, end-to-end C-UAS system which includes both DE and RF systems and a Bushmaster M230 30mm cannon as well as a full sensor suite.
Altogether, fifteen advanced counter-UAS (CUAS) prototypes in development globally will be demonstrated during the three-week exercise. It is the first year that high power lasers such as Fractl have been included in the Sandbox exercise, which is centred on detecting and defeating micro and mini drones.
Lightweight, portable and battery-powered, Fractl generates enough energy to burn through steel and can shoot down a UAS travelling at 100km/hour from a kilometre away. Fractl’s targeting system, which can be remotely operated from anywhere in the world, is also capable of integrating with military sensor suites and command and control systems.
“Autonomous and remotely-operated attack drones have become a prolific and increasing asymmetric threat both in conflict zones and to public safety,” AIM Defence co-founder Dr Jae Daniel said. “The Sandbox is an important opportunity for AIM Defence to demonstrate Fractl’s precision tracking and targeting in a variety of defensive operations”
The Canadian Joint Operations Command is leading Canada’s CUAS effort, coordinating with the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) to evaluate and fund emerging CUAS solutions.
The Sandbox exercise will be overseen by Canadian Armed Forces personnel as well as military and science experts from the United States Government – Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate, and Royal Canadian Mounted Police end-users.
Fusing AI-enabled precision tracking with DE laser technology, AIM Defence’s Fractl suite of counter-drone systems deliver millimetre target accuracy at a distance of one kilometre, while being more than 10 times smaller, lighter, and safer than current defensive directed energy systems being trialled, the company says.
The 2024 CUAS Sandbox will run from May to June 2024 in Alberta, Canada.
(Source: https://www.ex2.com.au/news/)
19 Feb 24. US Congress advances bill to ban Chinese drones from US federal agency services. The US House of Representatives has taken another step towards passing the “Countering CCP Drones Act” into law, effectively forbidding federal agencies from buying – or contracting out services to companies that employ – Chinese manufactured drones such as those from DJI and Autel. According to Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, one of the proponents of the bill, prohibiting Chinese manufactured drones from operating on US communications infrastructure:
“The advancement of my legislation the Countering CCP Drones Act is critical for American national security. Communist Chinese drones present a serious national security risk to our country and it is time for Congress to act. Communist Chinese companies that engage in espionage activities and collect sensitive data from American citizens and entities should not be allowed to operate in the United States and this legislation is the first step to prohibiting Chinese drone companies from freely operating on America’s communications infrastructure,”
According to a previous statement from DJI on the issue.
“DJI places the highest priority on data privacy – and puts customers in control of their data’s use. Our rival drone-makers are stirring up xenophobia to eliminate market competition. We ask you to look at the facts: DJI already adopts the standards outlined in the FBI’s recent memo. Indeed, many agencies and enterprises also employ those standards when using DJI drones.”
The impact of this measure on commercial drone activities in the USA – and among government agency drone operations elsewhere in the world – will be explored in more detail by Unmanned Airspace shortly. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
13 Feb 24. US seeks to test acoustic sensor system used by Ukraine to detect and track airborne threats. General James Hecker, triple-hatted as commander of US Air Forces in Africa (USAFE), Air Forces Africa (AFAFRICA) and NATO’s Allied Air Command, told media on 12 February that Ukraine is making use of a national network of thousands of acoustic sensors to detect and track Russian drones, alert air defence assets and cue drone-hunting teams: and that the US is now seeking to test the system to determine its applicability to its own drone challenges.
“At the unclassified level, Ukraine’s done some pretty sophisticated things to get after [a] persistent ISR” picture of “low altitude objects,” said Hecker during a media roundtable at the Air Warfare Symposium in Aurora, Colorado. “Think if you have a series of sensors, think of your cell phone, okay, with power to it, so it doesn’t die, right? And then you put a microphone to kind of make the acoustics louder of one-way UAVs that are going overhead […] And you have … 6,000 of these things all over the country. They’ve been successful in being able to pick up the one-way UAVs like Shahed 136s and those kinds of things”.
The Shahed 136 has, ironically, been nicknamed the “moped” – a reference to the distinctive (and reasonably loud) sound of its ‘pusher’ engine. Ukrainian forces have used acoustic sensor data to track these drones and pass situational data to deployed mobile defence teams that take the targets of opportunity out with anti-aircraft artillery or other air defence assets. Some speculation exists that dissemination of the data might be via a Telegram-based messaging service that Ukrainian defence volunteers have been able to use for some time.
Hecker indicated that the Ukrainian ability has been briefed to a number of bodies “including the Missile Defense Agency,” and suggested that serious consideration is being given to conducting tests to determine potential applicability to NATO missions. With the significant challenges that ‘low and slow’ drones represent for even latest-generation radar sensors, acoustic sensors could fill capability gaps in an effective and potentially cost-efficient manner. While he admitted that the future E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft will potentially provide the level of discrimination and granularity required for generation of a comprehensive situational picture, “Unfortunately, they’re not coming off the line starting tomorrow […] So we have to look for … interim solutions,” he said. Acoustic sensors could be one of those stopgap solutions.
For more information: Ukraine’s microphone-laden balloons that battle Russian drones awe US (interestingengineering.com) (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
15 Feb 24. US Army uses “transformation in contact” to test electronic, cyber and drone warfare. The US Army intends to use selected units on overseas deployments to experiment with networks, cyber, electronic warfare, small drones and loitering munitions in order to determine optimal force/asset mixes in a rapidly evolving combat environment, according to General Randy George, Cife of Staff of the Army at an AUSA event in Arlington on 6 February. “We have a starting point, but the view is we’re going to see a lot of refinements in the field,” he said of the initiative, dubbed “transformation in contact”.
The plan envisions frequent adjustments to the size and nature of a combat brigade’s network, its drone deployment, cyber and EW capabilities and the potentially increased use of robotics. Feedback in the form of recommendations based on individual unit experience will be an integral part of the experiment, with answers likely being highly varied, according to George. “Is the EW capability for a cavalry squadron going to be different for an artillery [unit?] and what is going to be different?”
He and other senior military leaders apparently see the employment of new technologies in combat changing on a far shorter timescale than hitherto – perhaps as little as three weeks to three months. Expecting a specific tactical approach to last the duration of a long deployment is no longer valid, it seems. He quoted recent experience underscoring that argument from combat deployments in Syria and Erbil and recent rotations through the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Johnson, Louisiana. “What we want to do is be forward and have everyone on the ground and have everyone adjusting that[…] If you’re going over to (US European Command), we’re going to adjust their network, we’re going to give them some of the new systems we have going,” said George. For more information: AUSA Extra – February 8 (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
19 Feb 24. Cuashub.com said today that TSA Takes UAS Security Training to Europe. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) extended its unmanned aircraft system (UAS), security initiatives to the Croatian capital of Zagreb. A three-day training course was conducted for 28 aviation representatives from seven Eastern European countries. Notably, this marked the inaugural UAS training held outside the United States led by the TSA’s Law Enforcement/Federal Air Marshal Service (LE/FAMS) since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“After several decades of conflict and economic turbulence, airports and air carriers in the region are growing in terms of flights and passenger loads,” said Steve Petrick, TSA representative, who is based at the U.S. Embassy in Rome. “Unauthorized (drones) flying near airports can pose serious safety and security risks and cause disruptions and delays impacting airport operations.”
Petrick and Supervisory FAM Michael Caskey emphasized that the TSA’s objective, through initiatives like the UAS training and other efforts, is to broaden global partnerships, enhance international terrorism prevention, and elevate the overall aviation security standard worldwide.
Caskey pointed out that the increasing global threat of UAS poses risks to commercial aviation and operations, with airports witnessing a rise in UAS encounters. The malicious use of drones has the potential to present criminal and terrorist threats to the global aviation system. LE/FAMS is dedicated to supporting requests from TSA’s foreign partners by sharing best practices and providing information to strengthen collaborations with international transportation stakeholders and governments.
The training course focused on showcasing available planning, training, and equipment. It encouraged participants to formulate UAS response plans, conduct exercises, and establish teams to address the growing challenges posed by the use of unmanned aircraft systems.
To assist and inform TSA’s stakeholders in the Balkans, Caskey highlighted that the training, developed by LE/FAMS and TSA’s International Operations, aimed to emphasize the significance of risk assessment, emergency procedures, and incident reporting related to UAS encounters. The training covered information on counter-drone technologies, detection methods, and response strategies to mitigate risks associated with small UAS equipped with advanced aviation capabilities that are readily available in the commercial market.
Petrick anticipates that this training in Croatia is the inaugural session in a series of regional initiatives led by TSA and DHS on aviation security in the Western Balkans, termed Balkan Spirit 2. (Reference)
https://d2gg3k04.na1.hubspotlinks.com/Ctc/W4+113/d2GG3k04/VW9RxH6wzfGbW5B7rJV8dXsXFW91lZlN59JscpN37Jq6v3qn9gW95jsWP6lZ3nHW1WBNhN6ClxxsW5RG0844Hh7FLW3q-XRY5HsHFQVhmLdt5ZRBwhN1B9Wq9NJ1ySW4Bv1Hs9m5jwcW5CtmT84tRXZ3W79YnvK4VLfr6W1Jqnpf1K5H7sW2J_jzC8cH9NnW8sqf-Z51R7QRW7zThDp9crjhtW6kWh3M7SgpHkW4rCBcm5sRLPGW6rb74B6h2RBYW2slMF92pSlMvVZ0Gt-8H6z39W7mNyyZ809lgcW4Q8k4d52WrRbW5tlJ0R44yBzgW9jkKSg4XygbKN6zFLK1czJQdN2nHL08sR1ZyW13F_cy2Dqf1BW1X7L_y6sFxdlW2Mw_GN48GFv6W6lJgcs5W15TwW6qZNSh2bBr5GW806XNX1w-48rW2q5S7Q8_9MfTdYZsw604
19 Feb 24. Cuashub.com said today that CENTCOM Defends Against USV and UUV Maritime Threats.
Due to increased activity by the Houthis in Yemen, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has recently been providing almost daily summaries of their responses to the threat the terrorist group poses to international shipping, as well as merchant and U.S. Navy vessels. Most notably, CENTCOM has frequently defended against Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) and air-based threats, and now Unmanned Underwater Vessels (UUVs) have been identified in the region.
The use of unmanned maritime systems is not an unexpected tactic. Still, it does highlight that these systems are increasingly becoming an essential tool for both conventional military forces and non-state actors.
Use of USVs in Ukraine and the emergence of a Ukrainian UUV
Ukraine has successfully used USVs and other military tactics to harass the Russian Navy and push it back East.
Throughout the conflict, Ukraine has sought to disable Russian ships by employing ‘kamikaze’ USVs laden with explosives. These USVs are navigated over extended distances, directed towards the target, and triggered upon impact, operating remotely via a satellite link. Developed to enhance their operational range, these USVs have been involved in multiple documented attacks. However, the outcomes remain contested and have proven challenging to verify.
Prominent USV strikes have included the assault on ships in Sevastopol harbor in October 2022. Despite the frigate RFS Makarov successfully defending against the attack and seemingly sustaining no damage, the minehunter RFS Ivan Golubets was hit. Another significant event was the second major strike of the war on the Kerch Bridge connecting Crimea to Russia, seemingly executed by detonating a USV beneath the bridge on July 16, 2023.
Ukraine has introduced a second generation of USVs with an extended range, enabling strikes further east. On the night of August 3, 2023, the Ropucha-class landing ship RFS Olenegorskiy Gornyak was targeted off the port of Novorossiysk in the eastern Black Sea. Ukraine not only released a detailed video of the attack but also provided verifiable evidence through photos and videos showing the heavily listed ship as it made its way into the harbor.
On February 14th, within two weeks of the destruction of the missile ship Ivanovets, Ukrainian forces claimed the sinking of another significant Russian warship, the Caesar Kunikov, a Ropucha-class landing ship, in the early morning hours. The claim was substantiated by video footage showing the ship at sea off Alupka in Crimea being repeatedly struck by Magura V5 sea drones operated by the country’s military intelligence services.
On August 23, 2023, numerous Ukrainian social media accounts shared a video unveiling Ukraine’s latest underwater suicide drone named “Marichka.”
As per the footage, the Marichka is a black UUV measuring 6 meters in length and boasting a range of approximately 1000 kilometers. It is capable of executing attack, transport, or reconnaissance missions.
Recent Red Sea USV and UUV Activity
The tactic of the use of unmanned systems in both the air, ground, and maritime domains will continue to proliferate around the world. Look no further than the increased use of USVs against U.S. Central Command forces in the Red Sea. Examples of recent unmanned systems in the maritime domain include:
Between 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. (Sanaa time) on Feb. 17, CENTCOM reported via X that it successfully carried out five self-defense strikes against three mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, one unmanned UUV, and one USV in Iranian-backed Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen. This marks the first observed instance of Houthi utilization of a UUV since the onset of attacks on Oct. 23.
From 1:15 p.m. (Sanaa time), Feb. 16, to 1 a.m., Feb 17, CENTCOM reported four anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into the Red Sea. It is assessed that three of the missiles were launched toward the commercial vessel MT Pollux, a Panamanian-flagged, Denmark-owned, Panamanian-registered vessel. There were no reported injuries or damage from MT Pollux or any other ship in the area.
Additionally, between 1:40 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., CENTCOM successfully conducted two self-defense strikes against one mobile anti-ship cruise missile and one USV in Yemen.
On Feb. 14, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Sanaa time), CENTCOM forces executed four self-defense strikes, effectively targeting seven mobile anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCM), three mobile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), and one explosive USV in Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen. These assets were poised for launch against ships in the Red Sea.
On Feb. 10, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sanaa time), CENTCOM forces effectively carried out self-defense strikes targeting two USVs and three mobile anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCM) located north of Al Hudaydah, Yemen. These entities were poised for launch against ships in the Red Sea.
On Feb. 9, from 3:00 a.m. to 9:40 p.m. (Sanaa time), CENTCOM forces carried out self-defense strikes targeting two mobile USVs, four mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, and one mobile land attack cruise missile (LACM) ready to launch against ships in the Red Sea.
Countering the emerging USV and UUV maritime threats will likely be a high priority for naval forces worldwide. As these counter-UxS technologies and tactics are developed, the naval forces will simultaneously build their own maritime-based unmanned vessels for offensive and defensive maritime operations.
Post Image- MANAMA, Bahrain (Jan. 29, 2024) Sailors stand watch in U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s (NAVCENT) maritime operations center in Manama, Bahrain, Jan. 29. NAVCENT/U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations encompasses about 2.5 m square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse, comprising 21 nations, includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Bab al-Mandeb. (Image Credit: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacob Vernier)
https://cuashub.com/content/centcom-defends-against-usv-and-uuv-maritime-threats/?_hsmi=294592725&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-89e73ZlhfIVz4JIZI7IHLkVSwcZHj8atpUQOrMPWFGvhPX-TJrHZ5jpE9PXDJlTzkFuUXEbBVbYOUjqkTV551304WinFOwCJz4eE7QGm11r4jiU9A#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=294592725&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
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