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08 Mar 24. First Fixed-Wing VTOL Integration of Long-Range Dual Sensor System. Australian drone technology company Carbonix, LiDAR sensors and systems provider RIEGL and the innovative manufacturer of high-quality image capture software and hardware solutions Phase One have announced what they believe to be a significant milestone for aerial surveying and data acquisition.
The three companies have successfully joined forces and flown the RIEGL VUX-120 and Phase One iXM 100 medium format camera on Carbonix’s pioneering fixed-wing VTOL platform. The combination of these highly sophisticated pieces of equipment is used in the field of remote sensing and geospatial data collection, serving critical use cases across the linear infrastructure and mining sectors.
Carbonix has proven the capability of the combined sensing platform in Australia and the US covering more than 12,000 hectares in a single mission. Being able to capture large scale detailed colourised 3D models of the infrastructure and terrain, proves the game-changing impact of this combined technology in commercial operations.
The integration underscores Carbonix’s unparalleled long-range platform capability, setting it apart as the first in the industry to accommodate and operate multiple survey-grade, high-resolution sensors concurrently.
Harnessing the calibrated Phase One/RIEGL pair’s cutting-edge sensing capability will enable Carbonix customers to access a multitude of benefits including:
- High-Density Data: The platform offers superior resolution and colourisation, enabling the capture of high-density data crucial for precise analysis and insights.
- Operational Efficiency: With the ability to deploy multiple sensors in a single flight, Carbonix maximises operational velocity and efficiency by streamlining data collection processes.
- Extended Endurance: Carbonix drones have extended flight durations, resulting in substantial cost reductions of up to 80% compared to both multi-rotor and manned aviation alternatives.
- Vast Coverage: With a scanning capacity of more than 12,000 hectares or a linear distance coverage of up to 400 km per single mission, Carbonix drones enable comprehensive area mapping at an unprecedented scale.
Carbonix CEO Philip van der Burg said Carbonix’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation is accelerated by collaboration.
“The partnership with RIEGL and Phase One puts Carbonix at the forefront of remote sensing technology, empowering critical sectors with multi-modal information crucial for decision-making, planning, and monitoring,” he said.
“By harnessing the synergy between LiDAR’s precise 3D data, and photographic imaging’s detailed surface, colour, and texture information, we can provide a holistic solution that enables users to see enhanced details about their asset, assess environmental conditions, and create digital twins with unprecedented accuracy.
This collaboration underscores our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, as we continue to push boundaries and shape the future of geospatial data collection and analysis.”
RIEGL Australia Managing Director Glenne Blyth said the partnership was pushing the boundaries of aerial imaging and mapping.
“This collaboration is a big step forward for how we gather data from the sky, bringing us closer to a future where aerial surveys can be done with less risk to operational personnel, greater mobility and increased frequency,” he said.
Director of Product Management, Unmanned at Phase One, Michael Messerschmidt, underscored the significance of scalability in the integration of drone-collected images and LiDAR data.
“This project and collaboration between technology leaders proves that there is a path forward for how the collection of images and LiDAR data using drones can be scaled to even the largest areas,” he said.
“In an accelerated and dynamic world, scalability is the key to keeping the digital world up to speed with the rapid changes in the real world.”
(Source: UAS VISION)
07 Mar 24. Norway exercises option for additional TPY-4 radars. The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) is procuring three additional TPY-4 multimission ground-based radars from Lockheed Martin after exercising a contract option with the company. According to an announcement by the NDMA on 3 March, the additional radars will be stationed in Senja, Målselv, and Nordkapp to enhance surveillance in the northern region of the country. In November 2022 Norway contracted Lockheed Martin to deliver eight TPY-4 radars, with an option for further three systems under the ‘P 2078 Air Surveillance Radars’ programme. The programme involves replacing the country’s ageing SINDRE II RAT-31SL radars, with a total of NOK2–4 bn (USD189–378m) allocated in 2015 for the procurement. Out of the eight radars originally ordered, five are being installed at new sites, while the remaining three will be stationed at existing locations. The first radar is due to be installed in Gyrihaugen, Norway, by the end of 2025. Deliveries were initially scheduled to conclude by 2030; however, this has been extended because of the contract option being exercised, the NDMA said. (Source: Janes)
06 Mar 24. France, Germany Ground Alerter radar set for MLU. France and Germany’s Ground Alerter 10 (GA 10) anti-mortar radar will receive a mid-life upgrade (MLU) to bolster its capabilities and address obsolescence. The Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) will manage the MLU, with a contract totalling EUR15m (USD16.2m) expected to be awarded in early 2024, the authority detailed in its 2024 business plan published on 5 March. Manufactured by Thales, GA 10 is a two-dimensional omnidirectional ultra-high frequency (UHF) passive multistatic counter-rocket, artillery, mortar (C-RAM) radar system. It comprises a tripod-mounted circular-array antenna and an associated radar electronics processing unit, which when combined, can localise the point of impact and launch point of RAM threats. GA 10 can be used as a standalone system or deployed in a netted configuration. The radar can detect mortars within an 8 km range, extending to 30 km for larger aircraft with a radar cross-section of 5 m². When networked with multiple units, the radar achieves an accuracy of 150 m. (Source: Janes)
07 Mar 24. Thermal Imaging Optics for Defense Applications. Defense Advancement showcases Ophir Optronics’ high-performance IR thermal imaging lenses and optical elements for SWIR, MWIR, LWIR defense thermal imaging applications.
Ophir Optronics, an MKS Brand, is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance IR thermal imaging lenses and optical elements for SWIR, MWIR, LWIR defense thermal imaging applications including long-range, low-SWaP products.
DA is delighted to welcome Ophir Optronics on board as a supplier partner, and we will be highlighting their unique solutions and capabilities across our channels over the next 12 months.
We’ve just launched the company’s Defense Advancement supplier profile, which has been written and built by our team in collaboration with the company.
The profile showcases the company’s products, spanning the entire infrared spectrum including LWIR, MWIR, SWIR and NIR, with a comprehensive range of options including fixed, manual, and motorized focus, and continuous zoom including long-range and low-SWaP products.
Read on to find out about a selection of Ophir Optronics’ solutions:
Long-range MWIR, LWIR & SWIR zoom lenses
Ophir Optronics’ long-range zoom lenses are ideal for ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) applications on land, at sea and in the air, as well as security and counter-drone systems.
The rugged lenses have been engineered for superior performance even under the harshest battlefield conditions, and feature accurate line-of-sight (LOS) performance and MTF close to the diffraction limit.
Ophir Medium Wave IR (MWIR) lenses provide crisp image over the full zoom range, with MTF close to the diffraction limit. The lenses are suitable for a wide range of commercial, surveillance, and homeland security applications.
The Ophir SWIR & NIR 25-250mm f/5.5 (NFOV) f/4.0 (WFOV) continuous zoom lens is a low-Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP), compact lens, for the newly introduced 5μm SXGA, as well as for 10μm SXGA, and 15μm VGA SWIR detectors.
Low-SWaP Fixed & Manual Focus and Continuous Zoom Lenses
Ophir offers a wide range of compact, lightweight and low-power fixed-focus, manual focus, and zoom lenses for high-resolution thermal imaging and sensing applications.
These low-SWaP lenses are ideal for incorporation into military platform and system designs with size and weight limitations such as small aircraft and unmanned systems, as well as dismounted soldier applications such as hand-held thermal imagers and thermal weapon sights.
The LightIR thermal imaging zoom lenses are designed for use in a wide range of reduced SWaP applications, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), and aircraft vision systems.
Advanced IR lens coatings for naval & maritime ISR
Ophir has developed an advanced hydrophobic coating for IR lenses that provides unparalleled water repelling and ensures the utmost in clarity for naval and maritime surveillance and security applications. AquaShieldIR is designed to withstand extremes of weather, salt spray and humidity, overcoming the obstacles faced at sea by traditional coatings.
Rigorously tested for durability and longevity, AquaShieldIR surpasses the requirements of the MIL-STD-810 standard, and allows naval and maritime personnel to accurately detect and identify targets and objects of interest even in the harshest coastal and marine environments.
Learn more >>
To find out more about MKS Ophir’s high-performance IR thermal imaging lenses and optical elements, please visit the company’s profile page: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/company/mks-ophir/
(Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
06 Mar 24. British Airborne soldiers do some smart shooting with new sight that helps smash drones. Airborne soldiers have been issued with a new smart optical sight that uses artificial intelligence to help them shoot down drones more efficiently.
Members of 16 Air Assault Brigade were the first to receive the new SmartShooter Smash fire control system.
The Smash sight gives soldiers a high probability of destroying small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) that are trying to locate and target their positions.
Troops from across the brigade have been testing the new sight at Fingringhoe Ranges near Colchester.
They have been training as counter-UAS specialists and will then go back to their units and pass on their skills to their colleagues.
The Smash sight is mounted on the standard issue SA80 L85 A3 assault rifle and uses image processing software to detect a UAS in the sight’s field of view.
It then displays a box around the target, tracks and predicts its movement, and only allows the rifle to be fired when it is aligned to make a successful hit.
Warrant Officer Class 2 Joe Cooke, who runs the brigade’s small arms training, said: “The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have really shown the threat and capabilities of UAS.
“Our current option to target a drone is to just shoot at it, and they are small and mobile targets that are very hard to hit.
“The Smash sight increases the probability of a hit, reducing the amount of ammunition used.
“It’s about efficiency, and it also offers a surveillance capability to detect drones that soldiers might not have been spotted.
“We’ve got medics and signallers on this course who because of their role don’t use their rifles as much as infantry, and they are shooting with an accuracy that they have never achieved before.”
Another soldier training with the new sight is Lance Corporal Harry Howes, a driver with 13 Air Assault Support Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, who was full of praise for the Smash sight.
LCpl Howes said: “The Smash sight is a simple piece of kit to use. It just takes a few goes to get used to how it works.
“You still pull the trigger, but the system fires the rifle when it is most confident of a hit – which it gets!” (Source: forces.net)
07 Mar 24. Cuashub.com said today that AirData Adds Public-Facing Data Features for Public Safety.
Adding to the drone airspace awareness picture and helping bridge the gap between communities and public safety agencies, AirData‘s public-facing data option, employed by public safety agencies throughout the United States, presents a proactive resolution for community-focused police departments and public safety agencies.
The use of drones by public safety agencies worldwide has provided them with a potent tool to enhance existing capabilities, reduce response times, increase safety, and increase personnel presence. Community discussions surrounding these programs emphasize the importance of public accountability and transparency. In collaboration with community-invested agencies, AirData has joined forces to introduce the Public Portal, a robust new tool to foster public trust and engagement.
AirData provides a platform for managing drone fleets and live streaming and incorporates detailed data tracking as a fundamental feature. Law enforcement agencies can share flight information publicly through their personalized AirData Public Portal websites. These platforms offer transparent access to the flight paths and locations of public safety operations, allowing the public to search for missions based on address or time period. The shared data is customized for each department’s needs and can be automatically filtered to ensure confidentiality. AirData has collaborated with pioneering agencies like Chula Vista PD, Sacramento PD, and Las Vegas Metro PD, leveraging their expertise to develop and advance the Public Portal program to promote safer and more community-focused policing.
Agencies face the crucial challenge of balancing concerns related to privacy, officer safety, and operational security with the imperative of cultivating public trust and engagement. AirData addresses these considerations through robust backend features that allow agencies to tailor parameters to suit their operations. A key feature is the ability to customize the time period before sharing flight information, providing a broad security layer. Additionally, individual pilots have granular control over data sharing through checklists and flight tags. For instance, pilots engaged in sensitive missions can maintain confidentiality by promptly completing a post-flight checklist using the AirData UAV mobile app.
“Implementing AirData’s Public Portal into our UAS program has revolutionized the way we share our drone operations with the community,” said Detective Steven Oscar, Program Coordinator and Chief UAS Pilot at LVMPD. “It’s transparent, user-friendly, and bridges the gap between technology and public trust. With real-time data sharing, we’re not just flying drones; we’re fostering an environment of openness and accountability. AirData has enabled us to elevate our program’s transparency to new heights, ensuring our community is always in the loop and fully aware of the benefits our UAS initiatives bring.”
(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
06 Mar 24. US Army chooses Palantir to build next-generation targeting system. The U.S. Army selected Palantir Technologies to develop the Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node — a next-generation, software-centric ground system.
Under the $178m deal, announced March 6, Denver-based Palantir will build 10 TITAN ground stations, designed to help the Army connect data-gathering sensors from across multiple domains to shooters in the field to support advanced beyond-line-of-sight targeting.
“We are thrilled to move into the next phase to deliver these revolutionary capabilities to our warfighters,” Col. Chris Anderson, the Army’s project manager for intelligence systems and analytics, said in a statement. “TITAN provides game changing technologies on how we collect, process and disseminate intelligence across the battlefield, providing us a decisive edge in supporting Multi-Domain Operations.”
The award follows a three-year design and prototyping phase that pitted Palantir’s system against one developed by RTX, formerly Raytheon. The firms’ designs were refined based on regular feedback from Army users, including a demonstration last summer that assessed technical performance and usability.
Bryant Choung, Palantir’s senior vice president for defense solutions, said the program’s emphasis on incorporating feedback through regular demonstrations, or soldier touchpoints, has helped ensure the company’s winning system includes the capabilities most needed in the field.
“The way that the Army has structured this has allowed them to field this type of innovative technology incredibly rapidly, but while making sure that we’re getting that feedback from soldiers to make sure that we’re on the right track,” he told C4ISRNET in a March 5 interview.
The U.S. Army plans to buy 10 Palantir-built TITAN prototypes, depicted above. (Palantir)
That soldier input will continue over the next two years as Palantir further refines its TITAN prototype.
Palantir plans to deliver all 10 systems in that timeframe, Choung said. That includes five advanced variants, which will integrate with tactical trucks like the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicle Fleet’s M1083, and will be able to take in space sensor data.
The company will also build five basic variants that will be installed on the Army’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle. While it won’t have the direct space downlink, the basic version will have access to data from space sensors.
Choung noted that because the systems are software-heavy and designed for modularity, the company can continue to upgrade each variant based on the Army’s needs. In its statement, the service noted that the contract covers “the integration of new technologies.”
By 2026, the Army will decide whether the capability will transition into full production. The service hasn’t yet determined how many units it will ultimately buy, but Choung said the company estimates it will be in the range of 100 to 150 systems.
Palantir’s subcontractor team on the effort includes Northrop Grumman, Anduril Industries, L3Harris, Pacific Defense and Sierra Nevada Corporation.
Anduril said in a statement that it will play a role in TITAN’s hardware design and development as well as scaled manufacturing.
“With extensive experience developing and manufacturing software-defined hardware systems for austere environments, we look forward to leveraging advanced design, engineering, and manufacturing approaches for the next tranche of vehicle systems, building on the techniques that enabled us to deliver the initial TITAN prototype in months,” said Tom Keane, senior vice president of engineering at Anduril. (Source: Defense News)
07 Mar 24. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is partnering with Palantir USG, Inc. on the newly awarded Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node (TITAN) ground system for the U.S. Army. The program supports one of the Army’s key modernization imperatives by using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance the automation of target recognition and geolocation and integrate data from multiple sensors to reduce sensor-to-shooter timelines.
Northrop Grumman will partner to:
- Lead design maturation of the TITAN Advanced and Basic vehicle shelters leveraging its capabilities in complex, forward-deployed ground systems.
- Ensure production readiness to deliver 10 initial TITAN prototypes with capability to scale-up to program needs.
- Integrate, test and deploy TITAN systems to the Army, providing actionable targeting information for enhanced mission command and long-range precision fires.
- Expert:
- Aaron Dann, vice president, strategic force programs, Northrop Grumman: “Northrop Grumman’s extensive experience in large-scale system integration will help enable mission success and provide information superiority for our warfighters in complex operating environments. Our work on TITAN continues our long history of supporting our nation’s need for actionable intelligence when and where it matters most.”
- Details:
- TITAN is a ground system that has access to space, high altitude, aerial, and terrestrial sensors to provide actionable targeting information for enhanced mission command. TITAN will enable the Army to fuse, correlate, and integrate intelligence data from a rapidly expanding series of sensors providing operational forces a full picture of their surroundings. This robust capability allows real-time decision making that will substantially increase the accuracy, precision, and effects of long-range precision fires.
- Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define possible every day.
04 Mar 24. Indra and Edge Group Sign an Agreement to Develop and Manufacture Next-Gen Radars in UAE.
- Agreement will give the new Abu Dhabi-based JV access to a non-NATO, non-EU pipeline of orders for almost 300 sophisticated radar systems, and will significantly expand its capabilities in the advanced radar solutions business for air, land, and sea
- With this agreement, Indra will increase strategically and accelerate the technological and commercial development of its radars business with new opportunities in high growth international markets, a key objective of its new Strategic Plan
EDGE Group today formalised a new Joint Venture (JV) agreement with Spain’s Indra Sistemas (Indra), a world-leading information technology and defence systems company with a footprint in over 140 countries worldwide, and a significant player in major European programs such as the Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), among others. The agreement, signed in Madrid by EDGE Managing Director & CEO, Hamad Al Marar, and Jose Vicente de los Mozos, CEO of Indra, will see the new Abu Dhabi-based JV develop and manufacture next-generation radar systems in the UAE, opening a pipeline of orders for approximately 300 advanced radar solutions. The new business will be granted prime rights for current and future non-NATO and non-EU orders awarded to Indra.
H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Chairman of EDGE, said: “We see tremendous value in building relationships which will spur growth and bring tangible benefits to all parties. Our new joint venture with Indra, as a global market leader in the field of advanced radar technologies, will enable us to combine the strengths of both companies to create an entity which will become a major industry-player in this sector. We are confident that this strategic partnership will prove to be a highly successful one.”
Marc Murtra, Chairman of Indra, said: “This agreement between the two companies can create one of the world’s leading players in the field of radar technology and is a step forward in Indra’s international expansion strategy. With strategic initiatives such as this, we are making decisive steps in key vectors of our Strategic vision 2024-2026: technological leadership, international growth and partnerships building “.
The JV will place a strategic focus on the continued development of sophisticated technologies, innovation, and global market expansion by targeting untapped and fragmented non-NATO markets outside of the European Union. EDGE will bring its commercial strength and technology building blocks, while Indra will enhance the new company’s capabilities by transferring technology, and shifting some engineering, commercial, and manufacturing capabilities to the JV.
Speaking at the official signing ceremony at the Ministry of Defence in Madrid, EDGE Group Managing Director & CEO, Hamad Al Marar, said: “This new joint venture with one of Europe’s top three defence technology players in this sector will enable EDGE, in partnership with Indra, to significantly expand and diversify the scope of its offerings through knowledge sharing, and the development and manufacture of advanced radar systems to customers around the world.
“In line with our strategy for growth through mutually beneficial partnerships, we are fully committed to this venture, which will be built on both companies’ existing reputation for excellence, and which will enable us to combine our strengths to drive innovation, develop sovereign capabilities, and expand market reach, while contributing to the technological advancement and economic growth of the UAE, and Spain.”
José Vicente de los Mozos, CEO of Indra, said: “The JV between Indra and EDGE Group will be recognised for its capacity for innovation and the use of the most sophisticated technologies. This JV will help us to expand our geographical reach and our international mindset in our Defense business and will increase our proximity to the global clients. We in Indra are convinced that this JV will create new significant business opportunities in new markets. This agreement is one more asset of the Industrial and Strategic Plan “Leading the Future” that will be presented on March 6th, a decisive strategic transformation milestone for Indra”
The JV will also focus on building a team of highly-qualified personnel in the UAE, particularly in sales and engineering roles, by leveraging local Emirati, as well as global talent, ensuring sustainable operational excellence and innovative output. (Source: ASD Network)
05 Mar 24. Iran displays Gaza-armed ISTAR UAV with new details. The Iranian defence industry displayed its multirole Gaza-armed intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the DIMDEX 2024 exhibition held in Doha, Qatar, from 4 to 6 March.
The Gaza UAV is a turboprop-powered remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) designed for military and civilian missions. It has an endurance of over 24 hours at minimum payload, with a maximum speed of 350 km/h, a cruising speed of 215 km/h, and a loitering speed of 190 km/h. It can operate up to an altitude of 35,000 ft and features a 500 kg payload capacity.
The weight of the UAV is 1,650 kg without fuel, and it can carry 1,500 kg of fuel. It is powered by a turboprop engine with 750 hp. The UAV has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 3,100 kg, including all the payloads. It has a rate of climb of 1,500 ft/min. (Source: Janes)
05 Mar 24. Vision Research, a leading manufacturer of digital high-speed imaging systems, announces the release of its Phantom Miro® C321 Air high-speed camera for airborne testing applications. This 2-megapixel camera leverages the rugged and field-proven design of the Phantom Miro C321 vehicle crash test camera to meet manned and unmanned airborne testing requirements. Specifically, its high frame rates and many advanced imaging features expand testing opportunities while offering unparalleled data security and meeting strict specifications related to environmental durability, EMI and avionics power.
The C321 Air achieves 1,480 frames per second (fps) at full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution and up to 94,000 fps at reduced resolutions. Because airborne tests often require lower frame rates, it unlocks additional testing opportunities for researchers while providing detailed, higher-quality images. The new camera also features a 10-micron pixel size for high sensitivity, low noise and high dynamic range to capture critical test events with minimal motion blur.
“We’re thrilled to introduce the Phantom C321 Air to the airborne testing community,” says Kevin Gann, Vice President of Research and Development at Vision Research. “Our customers in the defense and aerospace fields need to conduct critical stores separation tests in demanding environments. As the high-speed camera market leader, Vision Research has the reputation, experience and knowledge to provide a differentiated camera that meets the most stringent demands of the airborne environment.”
The C321 Air satisfies aerospace-specific specifications including one of the most difficult tests, the vibe test (MIL-STD 810H, Method 514.8, Category 12 (Jet), up to 26 Grms). The camera is also temperature tested to -55˚C, includes conformal-coated boards to protect against humidity and offers a removable CFast solid-state drive (SSD), secured with a double-action latching door. Users can download shots to the flash in-flight, saving multiple captures from a mission.
Key Specifications of the Phantom C321 Air
-Small, compact form factor
-HD resolution (1920 x 1080)
-Throughput: 3 Gpx/s image capture
-Max frame rate at full resolution: 1,480 fps
-Max frame rate at reduced resolution: 94,000 fps
-Operational temperature range: -55˚ to +50˚C
-Programmable I/O to easily configure signals
-Designed to meet MIL-STD 810H, 704 and 461 standards (complete testing pending)
-16GB RAM with memory partitioning capabilities
-CFast and auto-save features for securely storing multiple shots
To learn more about Phantom high-speed cameras, visit phantomhighspeed.com.
04 Mar 24. Denmark launches competition to replace coastal radars. Denmark has launched a EUR220m (USD238.4m) competition to replace its coastal radars in Bornholm and Skagen as well as on the Faroe Islands.
Three new Fixed Air Defence Radar (FADR) systems will be procured, each comprising a 3D phased-array Primary Surveillance Radar (PSR), Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) with all civilian and military interrogation modes, and Monitor and Control Units for both local and remote control of the radar system, according to a contract notice published on 1 March on the European Union tendering website.
The active electronically scanned array (AESA) FADRs must operate in the L or S frequency band, have an instrumented range of at least 256 n miles in rotating mode, and incorporate the latest proven transmitter technology such as gallium nitride.
Along with this, the systems must have a ‘stop-and-stare’ mode to extend their range, update rate, and accuracy, and be capable of detecting tactical ballistic missiles. It should also be possible to monitor and control the FADRs from multiple remote facilities separate from the FADRs, the contract notice detailed. (Source: Janes)
04 Mar 24. EDA develop an AESA radar prototype for FCAS programme. The Indra-led consortium brings the radar closer to operational readiness for the French, German and Spanish Future Combat Air System programme.
Spain’s leading defence supplier, Indra, has led a European Defence Agency (EDA) consortium to the end of a development project lasting more than two-and-a-half-years.
Launched in July 2021, the European Commission funded €10m ($10.8m) to develop an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system that also provides electronic warfare and communications functions for military applications.
Bringing together 11 other companies, research centres, and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from seven European countries, the project is known as ‘CROWN’ – a loose abbreviation for ‘Combined Radar, cOmmunications, and electronic Warfare fuNctions.’
CROWN focuses on the innovative concept of a multi-functional radio frequency (RF) system, which aims at substantially enhancing future defence capabilities, with specific focus on AESA for crewed and uncrewed aerial platforms.
Notably, Indra serves as one of three industry co-ordinators alongside Airbus and Dassault Aviation for the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme. France, Germany and Spain will jointly develop an aerial system, including a sixth generation fighter jet alongside collaborative swarming drones.
EDA’s multi-functional AESA radar system may be applied to these FCAS uncrewed aerial vehicles given the system is lightweight and compact and provides a range of capabilities in the field.
The final meeting focused on the main topics developed within the CROWN project and the results achieved. Particularly, CROWN demonstrated the different Building Blocks designed during the project and the performance of the demonstrator in a controlled anechoic chamber environment.
This project also determined necessary investments and outlined research activities essential for further developing a Technology Readiness Level 7 prototype demonstration in an operational environment.
CROWN included, in particular, two connected activities focusing on research and devlopment assessment on critical technologies in pursuing a future European multi-function RF systems on system and component level.
Follow-on activities aiming at producing an EU prototype by the end of 2027 are recommended, also exploiting the EDF framework.
(Source: Google/airforce-technology.com)
28 Feb 24. IWI – Israel Weapon Industries – a member of the SK Group (founded by Mr. Samy Katsav), and a global leader in the production of combat-proven small arms for military, police, law enforcement agencies, and governmental entities around the world, has unveiled its new Micro Folding Battle Sight. IWI’s MFBS represents a unique design which addresses the challenge of combining co-witness back up iron sights with higher reflex sights alongside various accessories on the Picatinny rail. It is specifically developed to conserve the valuable space on the rail without compromising the availability of back-up sights, thus ensuring weapon reliability and functionality whenever needed and under any environmental conditions.
The micro folding back up sight offers exceptional co-witness capabilities while taking up minimal space on any Picatinny rail. The MFBS sights can be lifted and folded when needed, in line with operational needs, and have a narrow profile in relation to the width of the Picatinny rail. They can be adapted to a range of high reflex sights and accompanying tall means, with a low cross section in the folded position. As such, the sights do not interfere with the other means placed on the weapon.
Designed to seamlessly complement most well-known sights on the market, the new compact sight folds backwards, ensuring maximum rail space without hindering the use of the AR charging handle. The Micro Folding Battle Sights offer ultimate versatility. They can be adjusted with a simple tool, which makes field modifications easy, and are offered with or without tritium inserts. The front sight is offered in a narrow profile for sights without tritium inserts. The rear sight is designed with a quick modification between small and large apertures. The MFBS are designed for the field and meet both NATO and MIL-STD drop tests.
Ronen Hamudot, Executive VP Marketing and Sales of the SK Group said: “IWI developed the MFBS after identifying the need for detachable, durable sights, that arose from the field. Introducing the MFBS to the market represents our commitment to clients to provide comprehensive solutions, and to expanding our offering”. (Source: www.joint-forces.com)
04 Mar 24. Cuashub.com said today that Safeware Adds SkySafe’s Airspace Management & Intel Platform. Safeware, a renowned distributor of innovative solutions and services to first responders, educational facilities, and government and industrial workers, has announced the addition of SkySafe‘s drone airspace management and intelligence platform to its portfolio of solutions. This partnership enhances Safeware’s range of safety products and technical services for customers in the industrial, government, federal, and response markets. The SkySafe solution joins other prominent brands in Safeware’s offerings, including 3M, 5.11, Honeywell, and Kappler.
The FAA reports over 900,000 registered drones in the United States, and the global commercial drone market is expected to reach $58.4 bn by 2026. To address the growing need to distinguish authorized drones from potential threats, SkySafe offers a cloud-based platform. This platform is considered the most comprehensive market, offering real-time and historical UAS identification, activity tracking, and telemetry data. It is particularly beneficial for teams responsible for safeguarding cities, infrastructure, the public, and campuses.
“Airspace security and management is a growing area of concern for Safeware customers, and we are pleased to be able to offer SkySafe’s technology to combat this growing threat,” said Connie Stallings, Strategic Vendor Relations Manager at Safeware.
“We are pleased to partner with Safeware to bring the SkySafe solution to an expanded network of government and private facilities that prioritize the growing threat of airspace management,” said Melissa Swisher, Senior Vice President of Global Partnerships and Alliances. “This partnership will allow existing Safeware customers to purchase SkySafe through a trusted partner that they have an established relationship with.”
The collaboration between SkySafe and Safeware leverages SkySafe’s top-tier drone intelligence platform and Safeware’s proficiency in national cooperative contracts. Together, they provide their customers a leading solution in the market for risk and security threat mitigation.
To learn more about SkySafe’s capabilities around event and corrections facilities, register for an exclusive webinar with leaders from SkySafe and Safeware on March 28th.
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Post Image- Light show at the 2020 Dubai Expo (Image Credit: envatoelements by photoyasya)
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01 Mar 24. Merger LRF XP35: Compact and Powerful. Premiering at Outdoor Classics 2024, the Merger LRF XP35 is the most compact binocular by Pulsar, featuring the widest field of view in its category and an extremely sensitive thermal sensor. The Merger LRF XP35 is the latest addition to the Merger line of digital thermal binoculars, known for its European quality, ergonomics, and the comfort of observation. As the most compact and lightweight model of the line, it features a staggeringly wide field of view (17.8°). This allows you to comfortably scan vast areas for far greater distances with both eyes without eye fatigue.
The Merger LRF XP35 is equipped with our signature European-made Lynred sensor with NETD <25 mK thermal sensitivity. This guarantees a highly detailed image with superb sharpness and quality even in adverse conditions. The new model comes with a built-in laser rangefinder that measures distances of up to 1,000 yards. With a detection range of up to 1,500 yards, these binoculars enable users to assess environments and find heat signatures quickly and error-free.
Like all models in the Merger line, the Merger LRF XP35 is powered by a dual battery system – one internal and one replaceable – providing up to 9 hours of continuous operation.
To learn more about the Merger LRF XP35, please visit this link.
Pulsar invites you to visit us at IWA Outdoor Classics 2024 to test and see all the new devices firsthand! We will be located at Stand 3A-621. See you in Nuremberg!
29 Feb 24. US Navy expeditionary forces eye counter-drone, offensive unmanned ops. The Navy Expeditionary Combat Command enables the rest of the fleet, providing port security, naval construction, mine clearance, salvage diving and more. But as the community thinks about how to modernize to keep up with evolving technology and unpredictable threats, it’s mulling adding a new tool to the toolkit: operating offensive, lethal drones.
Rear Adm. Brad Andros, the commander of NECC, told Defense News he’s been tasked with drawing up ideas for the “NECC of the future,” in line with a broader Navy Force Design 2045 effort.
Using the Maritime Expeditionary Security Forces as an example, he said over the last two decades they evolved from a riverine force into one that now conducts escort missions and port security operations.
“They’ve got to develop into creating a bastion for the ships and submarines” on patrol or even in combat overseas. The 2000 attack on Arleigh Burke-class destroyer Cole highlighted the importance of scanning the waters for asymmetric threats — in that case, a bomb-laden small boat — but current events show this maritime security force will have to keep an eye out for unmanned boats as well as unmanned drones in the air and unmanned craft under the water, too.
If the Maritime Expeditionary Security Forces will have to become counter-unmanned experts to conduct their mission, “while I’m at it, why don’t I just be able to do the offensive side of it as well?”
Andros said this led to a larger conversation about NECC’s role, partially inspired by current events.
“Taking what we’re seeing in the Black Sea, taking what we’re seeing in the Red Sea: how do we become that dilemma-creator?” he said.
Ukrainian forces have been able to alter what activities Russian ships can conduct in the Black Sea based on their shore-based drone operations. Similarly, the Houthi forces ashore in Yemen have severely restricted shipping in the Red Sea due to their shore-based attacks.
In both cases, the forces didn’t need to be at sea on expensive ships; they have been effective controlling a confined body of water from land.
Andros said the Marine Corps is pursuing its own version of this with the Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations concept. He said NECC wants to find a way for its force to be additive to what the Marines are doing.
If done right, though, he said NECC could free up a capital ship from having to protect a confined body of water, assuming the U.S. had the right agreements in place to put NECC forces on the ground.
Andros acknowledged this is a departure from NECC’s traditional work, but it may be necessary to have offensive capabilities in order to adequately create a safe haven for U.S. ships and subs overseas.
Navy Expeditionary Combat Command today is “built on protect: law enforcement and patrolling,” the admiral said.
To go after these offensive capabilities, he said the command would have to look into what technical skills the sailors would need for this work, ensure the right ratings and structures are in place to man these units, and realign resources to equip these sailors with offensive drones and other systems.
“It’s not a wholesale change, but it’s enough of a tweak that it’s got to be very deliberate, and it’s going to probably be a good five- to seven-year process to get after it,” Andros said.
Equipment reset
As part of the modernization effort, Andros is looking at NECC’s mismatched gear and considering resetting the inventory.
The force has done a lot of acquisition outside the formal capability development process so it could move fast, he said. It typically bought things that were commercial-off-the-shelf, not expensive, and in small quantities.
As a result, there’s not always commonality throughout the whole NECC force, creating a particular challenge for the sailors tasked with maintaining them.
Asked what he wanted from industry as NECC considers this equipment reset, Andros said the two most important things are that capabilities are packaged into small form factors, and that unit-level sailors can repair themselves.
Andros anticipates increasingly operating in locations without a mature logistics infrastructure, which makes the ability for the sailors to fix their own gear pivotal. He noted that configuration management — ensuring all the radios are common, all the drones are common, and so on — is important for maintainability and one of the reasons NECC is considering this gear reset.
Rearming ships at sea
NECC already has the ability to reload missiles into ships’ vertical launching system cells from ashore or from a barge at the pier, through its Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group.
But the idea of being able to reload VLS cells at sea has taken on a new importance in the last year, after Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro highlighted it as a key gap the Navy needed to fill to prepare for a potential war in the Pacific.
So expeditionary reload teams from NECC have been called in as subject matter experts during testing, including an August 2023 demonstration involving destroyer Porter and Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship William McLean.
This took place during the Large Scale Exercise 2023 event, which Andros said was important.
“At the tactical level — the humans doing it, taking an object, swinging it over and putting it in — we’re good,” he said, even if the specific systems being tested as part of Del Toro’s effort are new.
But who would command and control this evolution — who would call for the rearm-at-sea to take place, who would be in charge of safety, who would actually operate the cranes and more — still hasn’t been decided. Incorporating this evolution into a major fleet exercise allowed fleet leaders to start working through some of those questions, he said.
As for whether his NECC sailors would ultimately be the ones to embark on Military Sealift Command ships and conduct the rearming themselves, or if MSC would train its crews to operate the cranes, Andros said, “either way is fine by me, just as long as whoever does it is certified to operate the equipment.” (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
04 Mar 24. Wing develops multi-layered approach to detect and avoid at Dallas Fort-Worth. Wing has developed a multi-layered detect & avoid system to enable the drone services company to safely integrate aircraft into complex airspace, according to a company blog.
Wing drone operations in the Dallas Fort-Worth area operate within airspace referred to as the “Mode C Veil”, while all Wing operations take place below 400 feet in populated areas where most traditional aircraft are not permitted to fly.
Wing also leverages technology to actively detect and avoid other air traffic. Most traditional aircraft within the Mode C Veil are required to utilize Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), a system that broadcasts their location and flight data. Wing’s automated drones and the company’s pilots in command constantly monitor this real-time data stream. When needed, the drones can pause take off and automatically adjust their flight paths to maintain safe distances. Another action the drone can take is to land proactively, directing the drone to designated “preferred landing zones” away from populated areas and traffic, and gently landing on the ground. This is similar to how cars can pull over to the side of the road, when needed, says Wing, adding another layer in the mitigations to help promote safety.
Wing’s trained pilots in command (PICs) continuously monitor the airspace and can intervene during a drone flight if needed to initiate a contingency landing. Wing personnel are also prepared for swift retrieval of landed drones.
Wing says responsible drone integration is key to unlocking the potential of this technology, creating a future where efficient delivery seamlessly coexists with traditional air traffic. For more information visit: www.wing.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
01 Mar 24. Belgium expands network of ground stations to support low level surveillance. Cooperation between SafeSky, Avionix Engineering and experts of the Open Glider Network are cooperating to establish a low-level surveillance network.
Since the beginning of 2024, three air sports federations have started to deploy a network of ground stations/receivers in Belgium. The aim is to make air traffic electronically visible, ie eConspicuous, to all pilots in the sky.
The Belgian Ultralight Federation, the Flemisch Glider Federation and the Association of Motorized Flightclubs, invested EUR15,000 in the purchase of 21 receivers (ground stations/antennas) to be installed by the aeroclubs at Belgian airfields.
The aim is to cover the entire Belgian airspace at low altitudes. With this project, all EC systems are becoming federated into one source and made available for free to more than a dozen in-flight software and hardware. Non-commercial pilots will no longer fly without awareness of other possible conflicting aircraft.
All signals collected by the project’s ground stations are sent to a network. That network processes this data according to a new European standard (ADS-L) and makes it usable and accessible to a whole range of devices, apps and applications that pilots can use. This can be done via an ordinary smartphone or tablet. SafeSky, a Belgian company founded by six pilots, has developed a special app for this purpose that makes the data accessible in the air via a special internet protocol, using only a smartphone or tablet. For more information visit: www.skeydrone.aero
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
28 Feb 24. Canada seeks industry proposals for C-UAS technology development funding. Under the Innovation in Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) programme, the Canadian Departmnent of National Defence (DND) has launched Window 2 of its Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems Concept Development project.
Seeking to answer the question “How might we detect and/or defeat micro and mini UAS with systems that can be integrated into the broader military command and control system,” IDEaS will provide funding of up to CAD 500,000 for innovative C-UAS concepts over a period of up to nine months. There is a potential for further funding of up to CAD 2 m should concepts be found successful and promising by DND and Canadian Armed Forces.
Innovators are invited to submit developmental C-UAS concepts for the defeat of micor and mini UAS by 15 April. Application details, further information and a frequently asked questions resource are available through the link below.
The results of Window 1, in which winners received funding of between CAD 200,000 and 500,000, included ThinkSOLN Corporation, Institut National d’Optique, AGILE Electromagnetics Incorporated and C-CORE.
For more information: Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems Concept Development – Canada.ca (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
03 Mar 24. US Army issues RFI to industry for CUAS turreted gun capability. The United States Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, anticipates a requirement to provide a Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS) turreted gun-based capability (Notice ID PANRSA-24-P-0000-001618).
According to a posting on the US government sam.gov procurement website:
“The purpose of this announcement is to gain knowledge of interest, capabilities, and qualification of businesses to compete and perform a hybrid type contract with fixed price and cost reimbursable requirements. This announcement supports the Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 10 Market Research requirement.
“The Integrated Fires Rapid Capabilities Office -International (IFRCO-I) plans, coordinates and synchronizes programmatics, logistics, training, and technical management of international systems of systems, delivering emerging and rapid development Short Range Air Defense and Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems capabilities to foreign partners.
“The contractor shall be capable of designing, documenting, manufacturing, and integrating a CUAS gun-based solution.
Requirements include:
- The system shall have the ability to engage and destroy UAS using a cannon with rapid fire and automatic aiming controlled by an operator.
- The system shall be mobile (e.g., vehicle mounted).
- The system shall have a command and control system capable of displaying air tracks and passing tracks to the gun system.
- The system shall have an active radar.
- The system shall have means of Electro-Optical and InfraRed (EO/IR) detection.
- The system shall be able to raise the sensor and communication suite above a 10-meter tree line.
- The system shall have a radio meshnet.
The Government requests information on the following system aspects:
- Caliber and type of ammunition and gun to include percussion or electrical priming and performance data against Group 3 UAS (20-600kg gross takeoff weight).
- Proposed turret and relevant technical specifications, (i.e., Size, Weight, Power, and Cost [SWaP-C], slew rate and acceleration, stability, environmental testing conducted).
- Interfaces between system components.
- Ability of the system to receive and external track.
- Proposed radar model and relevant technical specifications (i.e., SWaP-C, detection range against a -15dBsm target moving at less than 127 m/s, with false alarm rate and track continuity information, spinning vs. staring, band, and number of simultaneous tracks).
- On the move capability.
- Proposed EO/IR camera and relevant technical specifications (i.e., SWaP-C, detection, classification, and identification range against a rear mounted piston engine against a Group 3 target).
- Emplacement and displacement time and any performance degradation for incomplete setup still capable of executing basic missions.
- Number of rounds per engagement (average) and number of rounds carried on system.
- Platform that the system is integrated onto, i.e., commercial truck, HMMWV, FMTV, etc.
- Recommended logistics concepts with anticipated costs for two years of sustainment (spares and services).
- Proposed data rights assertions.”
Deadline for responses is March 22, 2024
For more information: https://sam.gov/opp/e24821b54fc3424fb0fe93f2c101f1bb/view
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
04 Mar 24. Drone Band introduces FPV drone attachment for mid-capture of rogue drones. Drone Band has introduced a 3D printed first-person view (FPV) drone attachment called “the Crown” designed for mid-air capture of multicopter drones. Reusable, scalable and weighing under 100g, the Crown is designed to be compatible with a wide range of FPV drones and can reach up to 10km.
The Crown has been developed to address the problem of malicious drone operators retaining their drones. Once a malicious drone is detected, the FPV drone pilot deploys a hunter drone equipped with the Crown attachment. Guided by the pilot, the hunter drone manoeuvres towards the target drone. Upon contact, the Crown captures the target drone, disconnects from the hunter drone, and deploys a parachute for a controlled descent. An arrest wire may be deployed to transport the captured drone to a designated safe landing location.
While the drone’s capture serves as a deterrent, its apprehension also provides valuable intelligence for identifying the operator and discerning their intentions, says the company.
The legal framework for using the Crown varies, depending on national regulator rules. According to Drone Band, permission for its use may be granted, accompanied by specific restrictions, depending on the qualifications held by the operating drone pilots and the organisation they represent.
Drone Band expects the Crown to have a variety of applications and is targeting sales at event organisers, prisons, transport operators, police, landowners and private security firms. The company is seeking angel investors, beta testers and early adopters.
For more information: www.drone.band (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
04 Mar 24. Neil Brown Ocean Sensors, Inc. (NBOSI), a pioneer in research-quality conductivity-temperature sensors for mobile marine platforms, launches its latest innovation ahead of Oceanology International in London. The new integrated CTD Sensor promises to redefine underwater data collection, addressing an increasing demand for smaller, more capable unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) in various industries.
The UUV landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by technological advancements, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). As vehicles are getting smaller, while growing in numbers and enhancing their capabilities, there is an increasing demand for compact, affordable, yet highly accurate sensors. This demand is unprecedented and continuously expanding.
NBOSI has been at the forefront of this evolution since 2004, specializing in sensors for mobile marine platforms, capitalizing on the company’s 120 years of combined field experience specific to the ocean environment. The company’s response to industry trends aligns with the global growth forecast for the UUV market, projected to reach $8.14 bn by 2030.
The integrated CTD sensor represents a leap forward in UUV technology, offering a compact, palm-sized design that provides research-quality temperature, salinity, depth, and sound speed measurements. Dr. Dave Fratantoni, NBOSI’s CEO, highlights the advantages of the new sensor, emphasizing “simplified maintenance, faster recalibration, and superior data quality.”
Key advantages of NBOSI’s integrated CTD sensor include streamlined installation and maintenance. By eliminating the internal electronics board, NBOSI has made sensor integration, routine calibration, spares management, and field replacement a breeze, reducing operational complexities for UUV fleets.
Customers can get direct sound speed and ocean density data in real-time with the precision pressure sensor, ensuring accurate data without burdening the vehicle’s CPU.
The rugged and large-aperture flow-through design of the sensor not only offers class leading hydrodynamic performance, but also eliminates the need for an energy-consumptive and noise-producing pump.
Design flexibility has been built in from the start with certain sensor variants featuring a bulkhead connector on the cell. This provides end-users with greater vehicle and systems design freedom, and operational flexibility, optimizing UUV deployments for maximum efficiency. As a further bonus, the new integrated CTD sensor maintains identical form factors and dimensions to existing NBOSI CT sensors, ensuring backward-compatibility.
Over the past 18 months NBOSI has contributed to cutting-edge projects globally, from mine-hunting vehicles in Japan to deep brine pool studies in the Gulf of Mexico. The company’s technology is a critical component of the HII REMUS 300, foundational for the US Navy’s Lionfish SUUV program.
Looking ahead, Fratantoni expresses confidence in NBOSI’s ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry: “As UUVs continue to shrink in size, NBOSI’s compact sensors are poised to play a crucial role in meeting the industry’s demands. The company’s commitment to strategic focus and sensor versatility establishes NBOSI as a key player in the rapidly expanding UUV industry”, he concluded.
The launch of the integrated CTD sensor ahead Oceanology International 2024 marks a significant milestone for NBOSI, reinforcing its position as a leader in underwater technology. The company invites industry professionals to get in touch to discuss the future of underwater data collection.
Contact NBOSI to arrange a meeting at Oceanology International 2024.
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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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