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23 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that Terra Drone and Toshiba Sign MOU to Expand UTM and C-UAS. Terra Drone Corporation, a leading Japanese drone, and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology company is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation, a Toshiba Group company specializing in global infrastructure and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) solutions. This agreement solidifies their commitment to expanding their UAS Traffic Management (UTM) and counter-drone businesses.
Terra Drone has developed ‘Terra UTM,’ an advanced UTM system designed to track drone locations under its supervision accurately. As drones become increasingly prevalent in daily operations, enhancing the value of these systems is crucial. Terra Drone has made significant strides in the UTM sector through strategic investments in two key companies: Unifly NV, a leading UTM technology provider in Belgium, and Aloft Technologies Inc., the U.S. market leader in UTM.
Terra Drone will collaborate technically with Toshiba, integrating Terra UTM with Toshiba’s C-UAS solutions. As the use of drones, especially in urban logistics, continues to grow, developing sophisticated systems to prevent collisions and unauthorized drone incursions is essential. Both companies are committed to establishing a society where drones operate safely and securely.
Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation specializes in C-UAS solutions, integrating sensors and response measures to detect and address suspicious drone activities. Utilizing advanced radar technology developed from various fields, the company is committed to protecting clients from new threats in the dynamic airspace environment. As novel services and values emerge in the sky, Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation is dedicated to ensuring air safety through cutting-edge technologies and services.
In July 2023, Terra Drone acquired a majority stake in Unifly, a global leader in UTM systems. Unifly has a proven track record, having implemented its system nationally in over eight countries. Terra Drone aims to develop comprehensive solutions for drones and Urban Air Mobility (UAM), striving to create a digital infrastructure in the skies to unlock the full potential of air mobility.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/terra-drone-and-toshiba-sign-mou-to-expand-utm-and-c-uas/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9hnT-zNb-Vszz_3BI8Wm07Rjne4WlZ-UUK2uuUteRh-OocUcyvvJXE-VqFej4xIIQV79JBQCG1OjKyw4tfBqDFxI-cTzK0NR14L677nYXQlQHvqec&_hsmi=308397680&utm_content=308397680&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
23 May 24. CACI Sets Another Distance Record for Optical Communications. CACI International Inc’s (NYSE: CACI) optical communications technology, NASA successfully sent data from its Psyche spacecraft to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, a distance of more than 200 million kilometers, as part of the Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) experiment. Additionally, NASA will continue to leverage CACI’s optical technology for DSOC as the range is extended.
“With this latest accomplishment, we have achieved another ‘first for mankind’ milestone with our technology,” said John Mengucci, CACI President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our proven optical technology continues to attain historic milestones in the Optical Communications Terminal (OCT) realm. With more than 25 OCTs currently in low-earth orbit (LEO) for the U.S. government, we have demonstrated space-to-space and space-to-ground optical communications for proliferated LEO applications proving that a U.S.-based company can effectively design and manufacture this technology here at home.”
Recognized as the lowest-risk and most capable U.S. provider and manufacturer of OCTs across a broad spectrum of government customers and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) satellite providers, CACI has demonstrated exceptional performance in mission data transfer, including LEO and other classified implementations that support resilient, high-speed, secure, optical communications as an alternative to traditional radio frequency (RF) links. These innovations further demonstrate the company’s commitment to investing ahead of need in relevant, enduring, and enabling technologies that seamlessly integrate into OEM platforms. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
23 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that Visionary Machines Wins Multi-Domain Counter Drone Contract. Visionary Machines has been awarded an innovation contract to develop their PandionTM multi-domain Counter Drone and Robotic and Autonomous Systems (RAS) Passive 3D Multispectral Perception Sensor technology following a winning submission to Army Innovation Day 2023. This Australian Department of Defence initiative, in collaboration with the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) and the Australian Army, aims to challenge the industry to solve complex problems for the Land Forces.
Visionary Machines successfully secured a Phase 2 Technology Demonstration contract, applicable across all C-RAS capability themes: Counter Aerial, Counter Ground, Counter Littoral, and Riverine RAS.
The PandionTM C-RAS Passive 3D Multispectral Perception System by Visionary Machines is an optical (camera-based) equivalent to a radar system for drone detection. It features applications for multiple vehicle and stationary arrays, capable of tracking targets such as Uncrewed Aerial Systems, Uncrewed Ground Systems, and Uncrewed Waterborne Systems from significant distances at or near ground level. This advancement in technology will play a critical role in safeguarding Australia.
“Where technological warfare is so rapidly reshaping the battlefield, this is an important investment in sovereign Australian technology and the disruptive enhancement of our Defence capabilities. Our system’s ability to detect without being detected and to see in all weather and lighting conditions are critical technology differentiators for Defence and further cements Visionary Machines as a global leader in computer vision,” said Sonny Foster, CEO of Visionary Systems.
The contract will enable Visionary Machines to demonstrate groundbreaking sensor technology capable of detecting targets at significant distances while operating with stealth. This passive capability ensures the system avoids detection, a critical requirement on the modern battlefield. Unlike traditional radar or laser range finders, which emit signals and are susceptible to detection and targeting, the PandionTM sensor system remains undetectable.
A key feature of the PandionTM system is its ability to “see” in challenging conditions, such as extreme weather and low visibility environments, including low light and complete darkness. By combining visible light and infrared light, it provides highly accurate 3D multispectral vision perception.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/visionary-machines-wins-multi-domain-counter-drone-contract/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–gk6eZ-swsZIqpXIHaDZRWb6VWrXeBQicWQT0SqwqaC3U129OPeSHnFsis2swkgNyeGW66fMPck65DMDO4RYFtsH7OEpZ9HxZCVgM_WVEqatsOFfY&_hsmi=308397680&utm_content=308397680&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
23 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that Indra Playing a Key Role in European Counter-Drone Development. Indra, a global defense, aerospace, and technology company, is a leading participant in the European project aimed at developing the next generation of counter-drone systems, a crucial technology for the continent’s defense and the operational readiness of its armies.
Indra plays a significant role as a core team member of the Leonardo-led JEY-CUAS project, supported by the European Defence Industrial Development Program (EDIDP). European companies and research centers have collaborated to outline the technologies for future anti-drone systems, evolving into highly specialized solutions tailored to specific operational environments. The most effective systems will integrate numerous detection and neutralization technologies.
Within the project, Indra has coordinated the participation of the Spanish industry and led the definition of the operational concept. This involved high-level problem analysis, studying operational scenarios, evaluating user types, technological evolution, and applicable methodologies.
Indra has also spearheaded the development of essential technologies such as jammers and passive radar, assessed the typology of potential attacks, and evaluated various soft-kill and hard-kill countermeasures, including laser energy, electromagnetic pulses, and kinetic neutralizers. Additionally, it has analyzed several detection systems, including radars, acoustic systems, infrared and visible spectrum cameras, and radio frequency sensors.
A key contribution of Indra has been the integration of these sensors and effectors into anti-drone command and control systems through a standard protocol, ensuring interoperability with higher-level command and control systems. Moreover, new artificial intelligence modules have been developed and tested to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of future systems.
Indra recently participated in a demonstration in Italy showcasing the primary capabilities of the next generation of anti-drone systems. This demonstration, along with the upcoming preliminary design review, will conclude the JEY-CUAS project, completing the first phase of the program’s global roadmap. Future implementation will be pursued through projects supported by the European Defence Fund.
Protecting against drones is crucial for any army and state security forces. Drones have become effective, low-cost weapons capable of targeting aircraft, ships, and armored vehicles of significant strategic value. They are also used as loitering munitions, hovering over areas while awaiting potential targets.
Indra Playing a Key Role in European Counter-Drone Development
(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
22 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that BlueHalo Awarded $95.4m Directed Energy Technology Contract. The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC) has awarded BlueHalo a $95.4m contract for advanced Directed Energy (DE) technology prototype development under the Laser Technology Research Development and Optimization (LARDO) program through the Aviation & Missile Technology Consortium (AMTC).
This contract allows BlueHalo to continue designing and building state-of-the-art laser weapon systems for the warfighter. The initiative will deliver multiple prototypes featuring enhanced automation, efficiency, performance, and ruggedization, along with improved size, weight, and power (SWAP) characteristics.
“We are developing tools to win the next war so there is no next war,” said Dr. Vikram Manikonda, BlueHalo Chief Technology Officer, “We are expanding and accelerating BlueHalo’s air defense innovations, not only with Directed Energy technologies but with the diagnostic and surveillance monitoring systems that enable their sustainment, operation, and continuous improvement in the field. Our solutions are interoperable and designed with extreme care for the warfighter, providing the Army with a full system of systems to mature the use of laser weapons to meet our national security demands.”
Building on BlueHalo’s advancements in counter-UAS (C-UAS) technologies and insights gained from deploying its LOCUST laser systems, the company will engage in ongoing system performance improvements, research, and prototyping. These efforts aim to enhance performance and durability while increasing the lethality of engagements against small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) and similar threats.
“Through the LARDO program, the U.S. Army is investing in the rapid innovation and maturation of our Nation’s laser weapon capabilities,” said Trip Ferguson, BlueHalo Chief Operating Officer, “BlueHalo’s LOCUST laser systems are deployed overseas, providing multi-domain mission success in UAS threat elimination and force protection. We are honored that the U.S. Army continues to trust BlueHalo to deliver superior Directed Energy technologies and air defense innovations.”
The LOCUST system integrates precision optical and laser hardware with advanced software, artificial intelligence (AI), and processing to optimize the directed energy “kill chain.” This includes tracking, identifying, and engaging a wide range of targets with its hard-kill High-Energy Laser (HEL).
(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
21 May 24. Skylark Labs Demonstrates Cutting-Edge Counter-UAS System to DOD Stakeholders. Skylark Labs, a pioneering provider of AI-powered security and safety solutions, recently conducted a successful demonstration of its state-of-the-art counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) for key Department of Defense stakeholders. The demonstration showcased Skylark Labs’ ARIES system (Aerial Reconnaissance & Elimination System) and its advanced capabilities in detecting and tracking rogue drones, which was recently selected by the U.S. Air Force’s Phase II SBIR program.
The demonstration included representatives from the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and provided an opportunity for Skylark Labs to highlight ARIES’ unique ability to detect and track drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), significantly extending the range and effectiveness of counter-UAS surveillance.
“We were honored to demonstrate ARIES’ cutting-edge capabilities to DoD leadership,” said Dr. Amarjot Singh, CEO of Skylark Labs. “ARIES represents a leap forward in counter-UAS technology. By analyzing the trajectories of detected drones, the system can rapidly differentiate between friendly and hostile UASs, providing critical, real-time intelligence to inform rapid decision-making to provide interdiction of unauthorized drones.”
By simulating rogue drone incursions in various scenarios, ARIES successfully detected drones at long ranges, tracked their flight paths, and correctly identified potential threats based on trajectories and behaviors. The system showcased its ability to provide an early warning system for incoming drones to enable a rapid response.
Army Colonel (ret.) Brad Boyd, the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center’s former Chief of Joint Warfighting Operations, stated, “ARIES’ AI-driven detection and tracking capabilities are truly impressive. The ability to identify potential threats at extended ranges and provide real-time intelligence is a game-changer for our counter-UAS operations. Skylark Labs’ innovative approach has the potential to significantly enhance the Army’s ability to protect our forces against the growing threat of unmanned aerial systems.”
The successful demonstration highlights Skylark Labs’ ongoing commitment to delivering scalable AI solutions to the U.S. defense and intelligence communities. By providing critical situational awareness, ARIES empowers informed decision-making and enhances airspace security against the growing threat of rogue drones. (Source: PR Newswire)
22 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that UK Releases Guidance for Countering Drone Threats to Shipping. The United Kingdom’s Department for Transport released guidance for countering drone threats to shipping. The guidance comes as the misuse of drones can pose significant threats to commercial maritime vessels. Malicious use of aerial drones has led to disruptions and harm, with extreme examples including the attacks on the MV Mercer Street and the Pacific Zircon vessels using military-grade or weaponized commercial drones.
While aerial drones can indeed threaten commercial maritime vessels, various mitigation strategies are available. However, these strategies must be proportionate to the anticipated threat and carefully assessed to ensure they provide a net positive benefit to maritime organizations, as each mitigation option has its strengths and weaknesses.
This guidance aims to help the maritime industry understand aerial drone technologies, the potential threats to maritime vessels, and the options available to mitigate these threats. It focuses on addressing aerial drone threats and the associated response strategies.
The guidance provides an overview of the following:
- Introduction to drone technologies
- Current aerial drone technologies
- Future drone technologies
- Drone threats to commercial maritime vessels
- Mitigating drone threats to maritime vessels
- Introduction to counter-drone technologies
- Counter drone technologies
- Evaluating counter-drone technology for use in the maritime domain
- Selecting counter-drone technology
- Further guidance
https://cuashub.com/en/content/uk-releases-guidance-for-countering-drone-threats-to-shipping/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_ZCXyE2hY_JDI8EwjQ2jyaOgs0wlCUSy6v6pRURKLCPhpdVDoKNIzZjMegPXppu_eqFSNusJ1kfb9_-stlBBDh1QBCIN-olG80EXAv_nffTLYr5rI&_hsmi=308201282&utm_content=308201282&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
22 May 24. Radars and drone killers: Revamped USMC office hastens tech creation. The U.S. Marine Corps is developing new radars and leveraging its counter-drone systems as it looks to modernize and expand key capabilities.
The service’s Program Executive Office Land Systems is eyeing its newly reorganized portfolios — including ground-based air defense, expeditionary radars and light armored vehicles — to find efficiencies and build upon existing technology to rapidly field new systems and expand the portfolio.
Here are three notable areas the Corps is focused on:
Radars
One example involves the expeditionary radars program, which previously housed only the Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar. The office’s chief, Stephen Bowdren, told Defense News the G/ATOR is an active radar that has proved itself in the field and is now pivotal to future aspects of warfare like expeditionary advanced base operations.
But the Corps is still seeking a passive radar to complement G/ATOR and help Marines sense the battlefield without giving away their location.
Bowdren said his expeditionary radars program office is starting with an existing Army passive radar prototype to form the basis of a MuDRaCE — or Multi-Domain Radar for a Contested Environment — family of systems, as well as a Medium-Range Air Defense Radar, or MARAUDER, to field “as soon as possible.”
Bowdren noted he hopes this new passive radar will be ready for operations within two years given the service is approach the effort with an existing prototype.
Countering drones
Bowdren said his ground-based air defense portfolio is a prime example of “running fast with scissors.”
“Within the next year, we will have operationally assessed [the Medium-Range Intercept Capability]. We will have completed [initial operational test and evaluation] on, I think, both [the light and regular versions of the Marine Air Defense Integrated System. We are looking to field both of those systems probably within the next 12 to 18 months, easily,” he noted.
He said this portfolio has been able to move rapidly because the government serves as the systems integrator, pulling together existing sensors, computers, effectors and more to create kinetic and non-kinetic anti-drone technology.
Bowdren said the program office started with the assumption that its tech-integration effort would be a wild success: If the technology came together and was ready for fielding on a short timeline, what work did the program office need to do to ensure the training, the tactics development and the sustainment strategy were also ready to go on a short timeline?
It would have been a wasted effort if the tech integration failed and the program had to restart with a different radar or a different missile, for example. Indeed, there’s some risk in doing all this work in parallel, he said, but with that risk comes the reward of being able to field critical capabilities on a short timeline.
PEO Land Systems is considering further expanding that ground-based air defense portfolio, even as the original counter-drone systems continue through final test and evaluation. It could become a broader counter-intrusion portfolio, with Bowdren saying he sees benefits to incorporating an existing but separate Ground-Based Operational Surveillance System into the portfolio.
“Is that something that we add to our GBAD portfolio so that when you deploy a solution for counter-air to a base, it’s not a whole other separate suite of systems and boxes and screens, but it’s built in and plugged into the already existing security system?” he said.
He added that the Corps also must consider how to counter unmanned ground vehicles and unmanned surface vessels. “So is there really a counter-UxS portfolio we should be looking at?”
Recon vehicles
The light armored vehicle portfolio — specifically, the Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle — is in limbo, as the Marine Corps reconsiders how it wants to meet its reconnaissance mission and with what combination of manned and unmanned vehicles on the ground, on the water and in the air.
Bowdren said the recon community is still experimenting to help define that future suite of programs and equipment. The Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle, or ARV, will be at the center of that suite of systems, but the new vehicles could be supplemented by Ultra Light Tactical Vehicles, manned and unmanned surface craft, unmanned aerial systems, and more.
Bowdren said that study would be completed “soon.”
Even as those discussions and the related question of funding continue, Bowdren said his office is preparing to move as fast as it’s allowed with the available resources.
The program office is working with industry to develop ARV-30 prototypes that use the same 30mm cannon as that on the Amphibious Combat Vehicle. This would be the second ARV variant, following the command, control, communications and computer/uncrewed aerial systems (C4/UAS) variant that the Corps has tested since prototypes were delivered in December 2022.
Bowdren said his office is “committed” to pushing forward on the ARV family of vehicles even though the start date for procurement remains in flux. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)
21 May 24. Anduril Launches XRST to Advance Counter Intrusion Missions. Anduril Industries is excited to announce its latest innovation in counter intrusion: Extended Range Sentry Tower (XRST). The most recent addition to Anduril’s Sentry family of autonomous systems, XRST brings proven autonomous surveillance capabilities to longer-range applications, while ensuring that operators are presented with relevant decision points, not noise.
XRST is designed to enable autonomous detections at extended ranges for counter intrusion missions. XRST includes a sensor head that is integrated atop an 80-foot expeditionary tower to enable detection, classification, and tracking objects of interest up to 7.5 miles away, including 5+ miles autonomously.
“We are constantly improving our technology solutions to deliver unrivaled situational awareness to operators, delivering autonomous capabilities that act as force multipliers for border security and force protection missions around the world,” said Peter Babb, VP of Counter Intrusion at Anduril Industries. He added, “our systems give operators the mission advantage they need to focus on responding to incursions, rather than working to identify them.”
XRST is part of the Sentry family of systems that leverage autonomy as a force multiplier to detect, identify, and track objects of interest. Sentry reduces manpower needs and response times by presenting tailored alerts to operators within seconds of detection. By constantly processing and training state-of-the-art algorithms at the edge, Sentry enables operators to increase the speed, accuracy, and effectiveness of their efforts.
XRST seamlessly integrates with Lattice, Anduril’s software platform, and existing Sentry Tower networks to create a network effect for counter intrusion. Lattice fuses real-time data from Anduril’s Sentry Towers in addition to third-party data sources to create comprehensive actionable intelligence for operators.
Anduril developed XRST to meet requirements for longer range detections for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, while using artificial intelligence, computer vision and machine learning to free up agents who, without this technology, have to spend countless hours manually identifying crossings. In November 2023, Anduril sprinted to complete the pilot tower and deployed it to support operations in Texas. More are forthcoming.
Anduril is proud to provide the only autonomous surveillance tower systems fielded at scale by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Our efforts have produced hundreds of thousands of autonomously identified incursions that have resulted in successful law enforcement, humanitarian, and force protection outcomes. Sentry is an operationally-proven capability with hundreds of towers actively deployed around the world, and XRST is ready to serve as a force multiplier for counter intrusion missions today. (Source: ASD Network)
20 May 24. Indra Presents a New 360 Vision System Equipped With AI to Reinforce the Protection and Efficiency of Armored Vehicles on Their Missions.
- The company has presented the Ministry of Defence with its next-generation situational awareness system, an evolution of one of the solutions developed within the framework of the 8×8 program
- The system perceives and interprets the situation around it in real time by means of the images collected by different 360-degree cameras, increasing the range of potential threat identification thanks to AI and presenting lines of action to protect the crew and fulfill the mission
- This is a technology with which the world’s most advanced armies are equipping their armored vehicles and it is key to becoming involved in complex operations such as those taking place in urban areas
Indra has developed a 360 vision system based on artificial intelligence that endows armored vehicles with situational awareness and increases their effectiveness when it comes to fulfilling their mission.
The company presented the system to the Ministry of Defence, an evolution of the solution it began to develop during the initial phase of the 8×8 Dragon program, during a demonstration held at Wheeled Vehicle Maintenance Park and Center No. 2 in Córdoba before the heads of the Army General Staff (EME), the General Directorate of Armament and Material (DGAM) and the Army’s Logistic Support Command (MALE).
The system incorporates different artificial intelligence algorithms that analyze the images collected by the visible, night-vision and infrared cameras placed on different parts of the vehicle. It increases the range of potential identification of people and platforms thanks to AI, determines whether they are friends or foes and evaluates the degree of threat and the possibility of ambushes, proposing potential protective measures and lines of action to fulfill the mission.
The crew members monitor all the information and jointly contribute to its analysis in order to streamline the perception and understanding of what is going on at any given time, further increasing the efficiency of the system.
According to Miguel Rodríguez Mora, Indra’s sales director, “this is a technology that the most advanced armies in the world, including those of the US, the United Kingdom and Germany, are opting for,” while he stressed that “the use of AI will be particularly important during operations in complex environments such as urban and low-visibility areas, where it’s more difficult to distinguish attackers and the reaction times are shorter.”
Rodríguez Mora added that what sets Indra’s 360 vision system apart is that “it goes beyond mere perception of the environment and has the ability to understand data, recognize patterns and interpret and evaluate what’s happening and how it’s affecting the plans that have been put in place.” In this regard, he underlined, it can “automate tasks and make decisions much more seamlessly and clearly in situations of maximum stress, reducing the number of errors and increasing safety.”
The 360 vision system has been designed to be integrated into the 8×8 Dragon’s Mission System, which has also been developed by Indra to act as the armored vehicle’s brain, controlling all the vehicle’s sensors and subsystems. In turn, this kind of technology helps enrich the tactical vision managed by higher level tools such as the Battlefield Management System (BMS) that is currently integrated into the Army’s armored and combat vehicles. This is also based on Indra’s technology and serves to facilitate coordination and exchanges of information between the units deployed during an operation. (Source: ASD Network)
21 May 24. Teledyne FLIR, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, today announced the next mid-wave infrared (MWIR) Neutrino Ground ISR imaging module. The new ITAR-free Neutrino SX8-ISR 35-700 model with 1280×1024 resolution combines Teledyne FLIR’s world-class MWIR camera module and continuous zoom (CZ) lens for integrators developing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems.
“The Neutrino SX8-ISR 35-700 offers high-performance imaging, industry-leading operational lifetime, and simplified integration with market-leading control electronics from InVeo Designs LLC,” said Dan Walker, vice president of product management, Teledyne FLIR. “It comes standard with multiple connectivity options including Gigabit Ethernet (GigE), Camera Link, and RS232/422 enabling faster data transfer and seamless integration into networked ISR, perimeter security, border surveillance, and counter-UAS (CUAS) systems.”
The industry adopted and highly configurable AgileCore™ imaging electronics interface seamlessly with the new Teledyne FLIR AVP, an advanced video processor that powers Prism™ AI and computational imaging at the edge. The AVP, built on the latest Qualcomm QCS8550, efficiently runs Teledyne FLIR Prism AI software providing detection, classification, and target tracking. It also operates Prism ISP algorithms including super resolution, image fusion, atmospheric turbulence removal, electronic stabilization, local-contrast enhancement, and noise reduction, to improve data fidelity and more accurate decision support.
The Neutrino Ground ISR series utilizes a long-life Linear Stirling cooler that provides a superior mean-time-to-failure of greater than 27,000 hours and fully integrated CZ optics. Developed and produced by Teledyne FLIR, formerly New England Optical Systems (NEOS), which joined FLIR in 2019, the CZ lenses provide a range of focal length options to maximize detection, recognition, and identification (DRI) performance.
All Neutrino Ground ISR products are manufactured in the USA, classified under US Department of Commerce jurisdiction as EAR 6A003.b.4.a, and are not subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), providing greater flexibility for integration and development with foreign customers. Integrators also have access to a comprehensive software development kit (SDK), integration support, documentation from the highly qualified technical services team at Teledyne FLIR, and an industry-leading two-year warranty.
To learn more about the new Neutrino Ground ISR Series, please visit https://www.flir.com/products/neutrino-ground-isr-series/?vertical=mwir&segment=oem.
20 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 C-UAS Overview. The long and winding path of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 is complete, with President Biden’s signature on the groundbreaking bipartisan legislation last week.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization is a significant victory for travelers, the aviation workforce, and the U.S. economy. It will enhance essential protections for air travelers, bolster safety standards, and provide support for pilots, flight attendants, and air traffic controllers.
The legislation extends the FAA’s authorization until Fiscal Year 2028. It also requires the FAA to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking for UAS operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) within four months. Additionally, it mandates the FAA to finalize a special rule for powered lift aircraft operations within seven months, a step forward for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector.
But what is in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that impacts the Counter-UAS (C-UAS) mission within the homeland? A few items identified in the legislation impact this important security mission. Examples include the following sections of the Act, further described below.
Counter-UAS Authorities
Unlike the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, this year’s version did not include the expansion of counter-UAS authorities. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, Section 1112, did, however, extend the authorities of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) until October 1, 2024.
The DOJ and DHS have been under a series of extensions since their original authorities granted in October 2018 expired in October 2022. Will this Fall finally be the time we see some movement? Owners and operators of critical infrastructure, public safety, and others have been anxiously awaiting Congress to pass bipartisan legislation that will increase the security of the homeland from the growing drone threat.
Section 916- Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee
This section requires the FAA to establish an Unmanned and Autonomous Flight Advisory Committee (UAFAC) not later than one (1) year after the Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee (AAAC) is terminated. The Secretary of Transportation originally chartered the AAAC on June 10, 2022.
The UAFAC will be composed of not more than 12 members but will include at least one (1) representative from:
- Commercial operators of unmanned aircraft systems
- Unmanned aircraft systems manufacturers
- Counter-UAS manufacturers
- FAA-approved unmanned aircraft system service suppliers
The UAFAC will provide the FAA Administrator with advice on policy and technical-level issues related to unmanned and autonomous aviation operations and activities, including, at a minimum, the following:
- The safe integration of unmanned aircraft and autonomous flight operations into the national airspace system
- Coordination of procedures for operations in controlled and uncontrolled airspace
- The use cases and potential benefits of unmanned aircraft systems
- The development of processes and methodologies to address safety concerns related to the operation of unmanned aircraft systems, including risk assessments and mitigation strategies
Section 925- UAS Test Ranges
This section includes language allowing the FAA Administrator to select and designate up to two (2) additional UAS test ranges through a competitive selection process.
The legislation allows the FAA to designate the UAS test ranges as restricted areas, special use airspace, or other similar type of airspace. Among the activities that would be authorized include conducting Counter-UAS testing capabilities, with the approval of the Administrator.
Section 935- Protection of Public Gatherings
This section broadens the FAA Administrator’s authority to temporarily restrict UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) operations over large public gatherings. Eligible entities must submit requests at least 30 days in advance, providing details such as the geographic boundaries of the venue, event dates and times, and other pertinent information.
The eligibility for flight restrictions is extended to include events at stadiums, which typically have restrictions for NFL games, to cover other events like concerts.
To be eligible for a temporary flight restriction under this section, large public gatherings hosted in a stadium or other venue must be hosted in a stadium or venue that has previously hosted events qualifying for the application of special security instructions. These events must have an estimated attendance of at least 30,000 people in a non-enclosed stadium and be publicly advertised.
Additionally, large outdoor public gatherings not located in a stadium, with a static geographical boundary, are publicly advertised, and have an estimated attendance of at least 100,000 people may qualify for temporary flight restrictions.
Section 1032- Limitation
None of the funds authorized under this title may be used for research, development, design, planning, promulgation, implementation, or execution of any policy, program, order, or contract with the Chinese Communist Party or any entity based in China or influenced by China unless such activities are explicitly authorized by a law enacted after the date of this Act’s enactment.
This section does grant the FAA Administrator exemptions from the prohibition if the activities are executed for testing, research, evaluating, analyzing, or training related to counter-unmanned aircraft detection and mitigation systems, including activities conducted under the Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems of the FAA or by the test ranges designated under section 44803 of title 49, United States Code.
Other Related Sections
Section 907- Remote Identification Alternative Means of Compliance
The FAA Administrator shall review and evaluate the final rule titled “Remote Identification of Unmanned Aircraft,” issued on January 15, 2021 (86 Fed. Reg. 4390), to assess the feasibility and advisability of allowing unmanned aircraft manufacturers and operators to comply with the rule’s intent through alternative methods, including network-based remote identification.
The FAA informally refers to its Remote Identification requirement as akin to a “digital license plate” in the sky. This rule mandates that drones that meet specific requirements can provide identification, location, and performance information during flight, which can be received by people on the ground and other airspace users. According to the FAA, the purpose of the RID rule is to help the FAA, law enforcement, and other federal agencies locate the operator or control station when a drone is flying unsafely or in restricted areas. Additionally, RID establishes the safety and security framework necessary for more advanced drone operations.
For additional context on what Remote Identification means for security and public safety officials, please visit Remote Identification: A Primer for Security Professionals.
Section 922- Extension of Know Before You Fly Campaign
The Administrator of the FAA is authorized $1,000,000 for fiscal years 2024 through 2028 to support the Know Before You Fly educational campaign or similar public information efforts to increase safety awareness regarding unmanned aircraft systems.
(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
20 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that Frontex Announces C-UAS and Red Team Industry Day. Frontex, the European Border, and Coast Guard Agency is hosting an Industry Day exploring innovative solutions for counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) solutions and adversarial red teaming services. Scheduled for June 12, 2024, via Webex, the event aims to connect with commercial operators offering technology-agnostic solutions to neutralize UAS threats effectively.
Counter-UAS Solutions
This initiative seeks innovative, portable, lightweight mobile solutions for neutralizing small and mid-sized drones at the EU external borders. These approaches include RF jamming, GNSS jamming, spoofing, directed energy weapons, and hybrid systems. Special emphasis is placed on ensuring precise frequency control and monitoring to prevent collateral impacts. Additionally, proposals for system integration, interoperability, and compatibility with existing systems or components are encouraged.
Red Teaming Services for Counter-UAS
The service provider should offer adversarial testing and evaluation services for C-UAS in real-world conditions. They should demonstrate experience in operating a diverse portfolio of threat-emulating aerial platforms. Additionally, the provider should be able to simulate various threat scenarios using owned drones, ranging from small to medium-sized, encompassing commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and custom builds equipped with countermeasures against drone neutralization systems. Expertise in methodologies for testing the range and effectiveness of countermeasure solutions is essential, as well as proficiency in modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A), electromagnetic spectrum monitoring, and developing threat vulnerabilities and risk assessment frameworks.
Additional Information
Industry professionals are invited to showcase their innovative solutions and capabilities by submitting a brief overview detailing their proposed solutions and capabilities relevant to the specified areas of interest. Submissions should outline approaches to addressing the drone threat. Interested parties can express their interest by completing an online form by June 2, 2024.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/frontex-announces-c-uas-and-red-team-industry-day/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9xTb878yCLhfAcXrKXvSx57oxev9I1OzYKIYFe-vULRV6YO00acSL63ds4f2uTDR0ygsRty9BKyQzcaLTqfO0GftU18kfA-jzBKtjD5aLkJyE5ZIA&_hsmi=307718697&utm_content=307718697&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
20 May 24. Cuashub.com said today that Zeal OTM launches AirScout Sentry – AI, integrated multi-sensor C-UAS platform. Florida based Zeal OTM has announced the launch of its AirScout Sentry, an EO/IR-based system powered by AI-driven software, designed for optical detection, acquisition, classification, and tracking of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). “The AI-enabled system continuously monitors airspace for UAS threats, providing real-time alerts to operators,” says the company in a LInkedin post. “Utilizing commercial off-the-shelf cameras, AirScout Sentry deployments are customized based on airspace coverage requirements. While it can operate independently, its open-architecture software and flexible API allow for seamless integration with other sensors and systems, enhancing overall situational awareness and security.” For more information: https://zealotm.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/zealotm/ (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
15 May 24. UAVHE develops fluid-blasting C-UAS device. UAVHE SL has developed a blaster-type device designed for neutralising drone threats using supersonic streams of non-Newtonian fluid to incapacitate targets.
The HyperJet Anti-Drone Gun shoots streams of non-Newtonian fluid at supersonic speeds and is capable of achieving sub 1 MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at a range of 200 metres. The blaster can discharge up to 250kg of liquid projectiles per minute.
Equipped with a laser designator and high-intensity flashlight for enhanced visibility and precision in various conditions, the HyperJet is designed for both military and security operations. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
17 May 24. European Commission announces funding for the EUR 71m E-CUAS programme. The EUR 71m E-CUAS programme has been announced as one of the successful programmes to receive funding from the European Commission as part of its European Defence Fund (EDF) programme amounting to EUR1,031m of EU funding, supporting 54 joint European defence research and development projects. E-CUAS will bring together 24 beneficiaries from 12 Member States and Norway to advance defence technologies countering unmanned aerial systems, such as drones. E-CUAS aims to develop counter unmanned aerial systems (CUAS) solutions for countering class I unmanned aerial systems, including military-grade UAS, by integrating multiple technologies. The proposed solutions include passive and active sensors, soft kill and hard kill effector technologies, command and control capabilities, networking and communications infrastructure, cybersecurity, and interoperability data models. The project is in continuity with the JEY-CUAS project and will study, harmonise, and consolidate concepts of operations, use cases, user needs, and operational requirements. For more information: https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/funding-opportunities-0/calls-proposals/results-edf-2023-calls-proposals_en (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
17 May 24. Azerbaijani artillery using Israeli ELM-2084 as counter-fire radar. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed its land forces are using a smaller version of the Israeli-made ELM-2084 multimission radar to support artillery units. An Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Elta ELM-2084 was seen clearly in a video released by the MoD on 16 May to show an artillery exercise involving 2S19 Msta-S self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) and 2A36 Giatsint-B towed guns. Azerbaijan was already known to have an ELM-2084 as one was seen in a video the MoD released in April 2020 showing the radar with the IAI Barak-8 air-defence system deployed north of Baku. A smaller ELM-2084 was probably glimpsed in television coverage of a visit that President Ilham Aliyev made to a new base in Beylagan in February 2019. A statement released by the president’s office said he was shown a “universal radar complex” that is used to support artillery units and monitor enemy fire. (Source: Janes)
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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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