Sponsored by Echodyne
www.echodyne.com
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
09 Aug 24. Boeing gets $2.56bn contract from US Air Force for E-7A Wedgetail aircraft. Boeing (BA.N), opens new tab said on Friday it had been awarded a $2.56 billion contract from the United States Air Force for two rapid prototype E-7A AEW&C Wedgetail aircraft.
The contract includes lifecycle development, training and support for the U.S. E-7A fleet, the company said in a statement.
Last month, the U.S. Air Force said it had reached a deal with Boeing for the supply of E-7 Wedgetail airborne warning and control aircraft. It downplayed concerns that the company’s internal crisis would harm its ability to supply planes to the Pentagon. (Source: Reuters)
08 Aug 24. Laser Photonics Shares Concept Animation of Laser Shield Anti-Drone System (LSAD). Laser Photonics Corporation (LPC) (NASDAQ: LASE), a leading global industrial developer of laser systems for cleaning and other material processing applications, and its sibling company, Fonon Technologies, released today the visual concept of the Laser Shield Anti-Drone System (LSAD) – a joint development by the two companies to create a laser defense system for use against unauthorized drone activity.
The LSAD is in development to counter the growing use of small-scale unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, for warfare purposes in conflict zones around the world. The urgency for an effective solution like the LSAD has led the global anti-drone market to expand rapidly, reaching a value of $1.9bn in 2023 and expected to grow at a CAGR of 28% by 2030, as estimated by market analyst Grand View Research. Following the successful early testing of Fonon’s LSAD prototype at LPC’s testing facility in Orlando, the two companies are progressing further along the development pipeline, leveraging their expertise in laser-powered equipment.
Furthermore, Fonon Technologies is exploring opportunities with U.S. military decision-makers to assess the needs of various service branches and explore new partnerships and technologies. Fonon Technologies will handle the marketing and promotion of the LSAD technology upon its commercialization, targeting government, military and defense sectors, while LPC handles the manufacturing of the product.
“The capabilities of laser-powered anti-drone systems can give a considerable advantage to those defending against low-cost, simple drones used in today’s conflict zones,” said Bryan Lee, Vice President of Fonon Technologies. “We are one of several companies around the globe who have announced or tested laser anti-drone systems. The LSAD offers an entirely new concept that is not yet being fielded globally.”
Wayne Tupuola, CEO of Laser Photonics, added: “We are excited to continue on this joint development project with Fonon Technologies. The immediate need for a counter-drone solution presents LPC and Fonon Tech with a grand opportunity to deliver an essential defense system to U.S. forces.”
LPC welcomes its community to explore the visual concept of the LSAD at our website.
About Laser Photonics Corporation
Laser Photonics is a vertically integrated manufacturer and R&D Center of Excellence for industrial laser technologies and systems. Laser Photonics seeks to disrupt the $46bn, centuries-old sand and abrasives blasting markets, focusing on surface cleaning, rust removal, corrosion control, de-painting and other laser-based industrial applications. Laser Photonics’ new generation of leading-edge laser blasting technologies and equipment also addresses the numerous health, safety, environmental and regulatory issues associated with old methods. As a result, Laser Photonics has quickly gained a reputation as an industry leader in industrial laser systems with a brand that stands for quality, technology and product innovation. Currently, world-renowned and Fortune 1000 manufacturers in the aerospace, automotive, defense, energy, industrial, maritime, space exploration and shipbuilding industries are using Laser Photonics’ “unique-to-industry” systems. For more information, visit https://www.laserphotonics.com.
About Fonon Technologies
Fonon Technologies, a subsidiary of Fonon Corp., takes pride in marketing and promoting Fonon’s innovative products specifically catered to meet the stringent requirements of government organizations, all branches of the U.S. military and defense contractors. For more information, visit https://www.fonon.us. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
08 Aug 24. Vision Products Selected as Sole Supplier for Naval Aviation Systems Consortium’s HMD Program. Vision Products (www.visionproducts.llc), a leading developer of advanced head mounted displays and digital night vision systems, has been selected as the exclusive supplier for the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium’s (NASC) Micro-Displays and Optics for Future Naval Helmet Mounted Displays program. This prestigious selection underscores Vision Products’ innovative capabilities and commitment to enhancing naval aviation display technology.
Vision Products will collaborate closely with the NASC and Vision Products’ partners to develop a high-resolution, daylight-readable, color helmet-mounted display (HMD) designed to meet the rigorous demands of naval aviation. This partnership aims to significantly improve situational awareness and operational effectiveness for naval aviators.
“We are honored to be chosen as the sole supplier for this critical program,” said Dr. Michael Browne, President of Vision Products. “Our team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of head mounted display technology, and this opportunity allows us to leverage our expertise to support the next generation of naval helmet-mounted displays. The wide field of view, high-resolution, daylight-readable, color HMD we are developing will provide unparalleled clarity and performance, enhancing mission success and safety for our naval aviators.”
Bradley Schieferdecker, Aircrew Combat Effectiveness Branch Head at PMA-202, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are looking forward to working with Vision Products on this important initiative. Their proven track record in advanced optics and micro-displays makes them an ideal partner for developing a daylight-readable display that meets the unique needs of naval aviation.”
Vision Products has a longstanding history of delivering cutting-edge head mounted display solutions for defense and commercial applications. The company’s expertise in high-resolution displays, digital night vision, wide field of view displays, and advanced optics has positioned it as a leader in the industry. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
08 Aug 24. Cuashub.com said today that AIM Defence’s Fractl:1 Laser Wins Counter-Drone Competition. AIM Defence‘s Fractl:1 Tactical Directed Energy Laser secured first place at the international Counter Drone Sandbox held earlier this year in Canada, earning a $1m prize.
This victory reinforces AIM’s leadership in low-cost, compact Tactical Counter-Drone Systems and follows the Australian Government’s $5.4m announcement to purchase a Fractl counter-drone system for internal testing and evaluation.
The Sandbox, part of the Canadian Armed Forces’ Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program, aims to evaluate cutting-edge counter-drone technology worldwide competitively. Held biannually for the past six years, it is internationally recognized as an independent assessment of counter-drone capabilities for NATO and Five Eyes allies.
Addressing the increasing threat of weaponized drones, the 2024 Sandbox focused on effectively detecting and neutralizing quadcopter, FPV, and fixed-wing targets. AIM Defence was one of fifteen companies selected to showcase their technology at the event alongside industry giants from Canada, the USA, and the UK.
We’re extremely thankful to the Canadian Government for giving us this opportunity and to their red team who really put our system to the test with a range of drones that we’d never seen before from FPVs to fixed wings across a range of scenarios. It was a challenging event and we’re proud to have come out on top,” said AIM co-founder Ms Jessica Glenn.
The Fractl system employs state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) tracking and ultra-compact laser technology developed in-house, and it has integrated with the US Space Force for safe engagement above the horizon. During the event, Fractl successfully tracked and neutralized drones from distances up to 1.5 kilometers, shooting down over 30 targets during the exercise.
The Canadian evaluation team concluded that AIM’s Fractl system best met the sandbox prize criteria for demonstrated performance, continuous improvement, and significant follow-on interest from the Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces in AIM’s Fractl CUAS approach.
“While we are immensely proud of our achievements to date, we’re just getting started. We’ve seen a significant uptick in demand for effective counter-drone technologies and plan to reinvest the winnings back into AIM so we can continue to develop best-in-class technology and protect our allies,” said AIM co-founder Dr. Jae Daniel.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/aim-defences-fractl1-laser-wins-counter-drone-competition/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8Dg6ElwrcYCJ254EmHh6Dx2t69FvsSdkHUHDVTyKWjh-HW27ZdnqfD7uzxQQsOzAjcOhT53hHlVv6EkIFRSMJDU42fuQEF-yKL5br0voYfaBQm8_U&_hsmi=319243807&utm_content=319243807&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
07 Aug 24. Counter-drone missile competition possible in 2025, Army officials say. The U.S. Army is considering holding a competition in fiscal 2025 for a next-generation interceptor to take out threats from unmanned aerial systems, Brig. Gen. Frank Lozano, program executive officer for missiles and space, told an audience Aug. 6 at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium.
The Army uses its Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center to evaluate systems such as Raytheon’s Coyote and Blue Halo’s Next-Generation C-UAS Missile. But according to Lozano, “there are other companies out there working on [counter-UAS] interceptors that might actually also have some growth potential to intercept rockets, large caliber rockets, as well as potentially cruise missiles.”
A competition next year would be held “to see if there’s anything out there better that we should be pursuing,” he said. “[It’s] a way to confirm that our investment is yielding the outcome that we’re trying to achieve.”
The Army released an objective requirement in March 2023 through the Aviation & Missile Technology Consortium — managed by Advanced Technology International — to develop a Long-Range Kinetic Interceptor prototype, according to an AvMC spokesperson.
The service and the Joint Counter-small UAS Office are requiring the development and testing of the prototype NGCM, the spokesperson told Defense News.
The vendors selected for immediate funding came from a pool of 16. Eleven others were placed in a “basket” for potential future selection, the spokesperson said.
The Army is also planning on holding a competition for a new handheld device to take out drones, Lozano noted.
“Inherently, a handheld system has limited power,” he said, but Lozano noted the Army recently observed promising capabilities in the handheld realm during a fielding exercise with the 101st Airborne Division.
Prior to a Joint Readiness Training Center rotation the service provided the unit with handheld capabilities that could go up against small UAS, according to Lozano.
A competition for a mobile flat-panel array radar to detect drone threats is also in the works for FY25.
The Army already has such equipment incorporated in the Stryker combat vehicle’s mobile counter-UAS system, but officials are seeking to establish a reliable system for future operations, Lozano said.
(Source: Defense News)
07 Aug 24. US Army to hold new counter-drone battle command system competition. The U.S. Army is planning to hold a competition to replace its command-and-control system capable of managing drone threats for the maneuver force in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano, the service’s program executive officer for missiles and space, said Tuesday at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium.
“One of the technological advancements that we’re working on is a critical decision aid process,” he said. “The integration of [artificial intelligence] algorithms help operators make decisions in a much more timely fashion.”
As a result, the Army is looking for a more capable Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control, or FAAD C2, capability that is like its Integrated Battle Command System, or IBCS, but focused on countering drones within the maneuver force, Lozano said.
IBCS is the C2 system for the Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense System but will also tie other sensors and shooters together on the battlefield. IBCS reached full-rate production in 2023.
“The intent … is to take what we have in IBCS where we leverage a track fusion engine, multiple engagement calculators, self-healing mesh network and leverage that into a smaller package for counter-[unmanned aircraft systems] applications,” Lozano described.
The intent is to begin with “something easily digestible, easily achievable, that many in industry can compete and participate in with the hopes of winning an award,” Lozano said. “I’m looking forward to a lot of participants in this room being able to compete for that capability.”
(Source: Defense News)
07 Aug 24. US Army setting sights on 4 C-UAS competitions in ‘25, including next-gen missile. SMD 2024 — The US Army is eyeing four counter drone-related competitions next year, including one to select a next-generation missile, according to Brig. Gen. Frank Lozano, the Army’s program executive officer for missiles and space.
Lozano, expected to receive his second star today, spoke at the Space and Missile Defense symposium in Huntsville, Ala. on Tuesday, providing the audience with a laundry list of upcoming competitions to gear up for. If lawmakers greenlight the service’s budget request and efforts stay on track, he is anticipating four opportunities in 2025.
One top race expected to grab attention is a next-generation counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) missile. The service is currently working with Raytheon’s Coyote and BlueHalo’s Freedom Eagle (FE-1) missiles but preparing to open up the field.
“There are other companies out there that are working on interceptors for a counter-UAS application that might actually also have growth of potential to intercept … large caliber rockets, as well as potentially cruise missiles,” Lozano said
“So, we’re going to be holding a competition next year to look at a next generation counter-UAS missile,” he added.
Also on the agenda for 2025 is hosting a competition to find a handheld C-UAS system for soldiers in combat. Power limitations are typically a challenge for systems this size and it simply isn’t feasible for soldiers on the battlefield to tote along a 500-kilowatt generator, Lozano said.
However, the 101st Airborne Division has been testing out new handheld systems, he added, and that feedback has been positive enough for the service to launch a competition next year.
When it comes to C-UAS tech, Lozano and his team are also preparing to compete a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD) command and control replacement. Dubbed the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) maneuver, the Army is looking for a mobile system to first connect with C-UAS capabilities before also adding in maneuver short-range air defense ones.
“The intent will be to start off with something easily digestible, easily achievable, that many in industry can compete and participate in with the hopes of winning an award,” Lozano said.
The fourth and final C-UAS competition slated to kick off next year, he said, is finding a flat panel array radar for the new single vehicle Mobile-Low, Slow, Small-Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defeat System (MLIDS). The Army had been using a two-mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) all-terrain vehicle (M-ATV) configuration that includes a “very capable” Raytheon radar. However, the service, Lozano said, is transitioning that setup to a single Stryker vehicle, and it wants to explore other radar options from companies like Elbit and SRC.
“[We’re setting] up a competition where we can bring out all the vendors and have a competition to make sure we understand what the state of play is within the market space, and give everybody an opportunity,” he added.
(Source: Breaking Defense.com)
07 Aug 24. First Polish AEW&C crews complete training ahead of IOC in September. The first Polish crews to be trained on the Saab 340 Erieye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft have graduated, ahead of the type being declared ready for operations.
Polish Secretary of State at the Ministry of National Defense (MND) Paweł Bejda announced the milestone on 6 August, adding that initial operating capability (IOC) will follow in the coming weeks.
“The first crews of Saab 340 AEW aircraft have completed training. In terms of reconnaissance capabilities, we are reaching a level we did not have access to before. Two early warning and [control] aircraft purchased from Sweden will achieve initial operational capability in September,” Bejda said.
Poland contracted the two Saab 340 Erieye AEW&C aircraft in July 2023, with the first being officially presented to then Polish Minister of National Defence Mariusz Błaszczak in September 2023 ahead of arriving in Poland in March. The second of the two aircraft acquired was delivered from Sweden in early June.
Given Polish Air Force and Polish Navy markings, the aircraft will be operated by the Naval Aviation Brigade with crews drawn from both services.
The two Saab 340 Erieye AEW&C aircraft will be used to protect Polish airspace and strengthen NATO’s eastern flank. (Source: Janes)
07 Aug 24. Cuashub.com said today that Senate recommends $500m for Project Replicator. The US Senate has recommended a further $500m in funding for Project Replicator in the fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill, released August 1. The initiative underscores US commitment to investment in the development and deployment of advanced UAS and C-UAS systems, with the aim of enhancing the nation’s defence capabilities against modern threats.
Project Replicator
Project Replicator seeks to accelerate the research, development and fielding of autonomous UAS and C-UAS technologies by enabling commercial integration. Improving C-UAS capabilities is a key focus for the US due to the advancing capabilities of Russia and China. New systems developed under the Replicator initiative could aid Ukraine in its war against Russia and bolster Taiwanese efforts to deter an invasion by China.
“The Committee recognises the urgent need for the military services to field systems that defend against the growing and constantly evolving threat from unmanned aerial systems (UAS),” the report states.
The report also suggested that further finding could be forthcoming, with funds possibly being redirected from the Rapid Defence Experimentation Reserve (RDER).
“The Committee recommends full funding for Replicator funds requested in the fiscal year 2025 President’s budget request,” the report notes.
“Additionally, the Committee understands that Replicator Tranche Two selections are forthcoming, and that the Department may seek congressional action to ensure additional funding for Tranche Two systems is included in the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025.”
“In anticipation of these emerging requirements, and in light of the Committee’s substantive concerns about the lack of results of RDER, the Committee recommends reallocating RDER resources into a Rapid Defence Innovation Reserve.”
How will the money be spent?
A major portion of the funding will be directed toward R&D efforts to explore advanced C-UAS technologies, including electronic warfare, directed energy weapons and kinetic interceptors. Such technologies will aid the US and its allies in efforts to detect, track and disable hostile UAS.
Funds will also be allocated for testing and evaluation protocols under “robust test and evaluation master plans” to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of new systems. This will likely include simulated environments and live-fire exercises to assess performance under realistic combat conditions.
The Replicator initiative emphasises the importance of collaboration between the DoD and leading defence contractors. By leveraging private sector innovation and expertise, the DoD aims to expedite the development and deployment of these C-UAS systems for the US and key allies, something Taiwan has recently indicated that it needs in order to counter the threat from China.
The approval of the fiscal 2025 appropriations bill, with its substantial investment in Project Replicator, highlights the US awareness of the UAS threat in the modern military theatre. As the landscape becomes increasingly complex, the focus on autonomous and advanced technologies will be essential in maintaining a strategic advantage over adversaries with rapidly advancing UAS capabilities.
The Counter UAS Technology USA 2024 conference will feature a range of speakers from US government, including the RCCTO, Marine Corps and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, who will discuss US capabilities and strategies in C-UAS.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/senate-recommends-500-m-for-project-replicator/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_MRZKZQvTx0W_3or3og3HhUMR8LT7XXlpeH2blYR17d4THCB7f9zngvrfaczMzVYrX2r6JtOpFucUMY8-m9OYZm8hfPIKpVtKZl1MSyiFa4uT8kQQ&_hsmi=319065772&utm_content=319065772&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
07 Aug 24. Cuashub.com said today that Mexico confirms casualties from cartel bomb-dropping drones. Last week, as reported by multiple news outlets, Mexico’s Defense Secretary, General Luis Cresencio Sandoval, confirmed that soldiers had been injured or killed as the result of cartel bomb-dropping drones.
Although Sandoval did not provide specific casualty figures, he confirmed that most fatal attacks occurred in Michoacan, a region embroiled in intense conflict. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) is fiercely fighting local gangs for territorial control in this western state.
“Our personnel have suffered wounds, and some of our troops have even died in these attacks,” Sandoval stated. These remarks represent a notable departure from earlier statements that only acknowledged injuries caused by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the area. Although the precise timing of these drone attacks has not been disclosed, Sandoval suggested that they mainly targeted army patrol units. Sandoval stated the army was acquiring anti-drone systems to combat the threat.
“What we are seeking with this anti-drone equipment is to have the security capability, which we lack, for our personnel performing reconnaissance and patrols,” Sandoval said.
Despite the growing threat from aerial attacks, Sandoval emphasized that roadside bombs remain a more frequent hazard to army units. The cartels’ use of IEDs, trenches, pillboxes, homemade armored vehicles, and sniper rifles has transformed Michoacan into a war zone. This militarization of cartel tactics underscores their determination to control lucrative drug trafficking routes and territories.
The CJNG, one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent drug trafficking organizations, has been leading this conflict. Their innovative use of drones to drop explosives marks a significant escalation in the technology and methods employed by cartels. This development not only poses a severe threat to Mexican security forces but also signifies a dangerous evolution in cartel warfare.
(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
06 Aug 24. ELTA North America (ELTA NA), a United States company headquartered in Maryland, is a defense industry leader in integrated Counter UAS solutions, fixed and mobile radars, ground vehicle protection systems, airborne sensors, and cutting-edge solutions for National Security across multiple domains. ELTA NA performs on both classified and unclassified US based contracts. Expertise includes production and assembly of the Iron Dome radar among other design, production, assembly, integration, test and repair efforts.
ELTA North America On-The-Move CUAS System.
ELTA North America Modular Air Defense System Kit.
ELTA NA’s participation in the Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft System Office (JCO) demo consisted of two integrated systems that were enhanced beyond the prior operational capability. Both the Modular Air Defense System Kit and the On-the-Move System were demonstrated, primarily highlighting the improved radar capabilities that provide autonomous Detect, Track, Identification and Classification prior to alerting an operator and recommending a defeat solution.
Reported by Sydney J. Freedberg Jr. in the Breaking Defense July 24, 2024 “Swarm Wars” article, COL Michael Parent, Chief of Acquisitions & Resources at the Army-led JCO stated, “Demo Five really was our most challenging JCO demonstration to date.” COL Parent further stated that the systems attending this event all showed a “greater level of maturity” and offered “much better solutions” to the threat compared to those at previous demos. ELTA NA was one of 8 selected from a group of 60 applicants mature enough to handle this task. “This was an incredibly difficult field demonstration,” said ELTA NA CEO Joe Adams. “There were up to 50 unmanned aircraft of different types converging on a single target at one time. Our radars are cutting edge, there’s a reason why they were used by others in this JCO Demo.” Mr. Adams also stated, “Although ELTA NA has the ability to provide a fully integrated solution, we believe it’s important to work across industry as partners for effective layered solutions to counter this dynamic threat environment.”
(Source: PR Newswire)
02 Aug 24. US Army conducts live-fire C-UAS exercise during Operation Hard Kill. The United States Army’s 10th Mountain Division and the Combat Capabilities Development Command, known as DEVCOM, have collaborated to defeat uncrewed aerial system (UAS) threats during Operation Hard Kill at Fort Drum on August 1.
Operation Hard Kill provides an opportunity for 10th Mountain Division and industry partners to work together to develop a collaborative system to facilitate counter-UAS training at Fort Drum. It demonstrates 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum’s ability to coordinate and execute the use of C-UAS equipment through live-fire exercises.
The August 1 event included the Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) B system, for use on armoured vehicles and ships. It allows weapon operators to engage targets without leaving the protection of their vehicle. A four-legged uncrewed ground vehicle armed with an artificial intelligence-enabled rifle was also part of the test.
The event also tested command and control support across US Army departments.
For more information: US Army DEVCOM: https://www.army.mil/devcom (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
30 Jul 24. SkySafe drone detection system to stem flow of illicit goods at the US Southern border. SkySafe has been awarded a drone detection contract from Amentum, acting on behalf of the United States Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) under the Department of Defense Information Analysis Center’s multiple-award contract vehicle.
Drones are frequently used to smuggle illegal drugs across the international border into the US. They are operated from a distance by remote control and are most often used under the cover of night. The drones that are flown across the border can typically carry two to five pounds in weight and will attempt several trips in one smuggling event. Packages of hard narcotics are often equipped with trackers to allow smugglers waiting on the northern side of the border to easily locate them after they are dropped. Human smugglers also use drones to monitor agents on patrol.
SkySafe will deploy its cloud-based drone detection system along a portion of the US Southern border to further help curb the flow of illicit goods into the United States. The company’s Software as a Service (SaaS) platform detects, tracks, and identifies a wide range of drones. The system integrates hardware and software components and will provide CBP agents with real-time alerts for situational awareness. SkySafe’s technology and support infrastructure were selected from a competitive process. The project will be implemented in phases.
For more information: https://www.skysafe.io/ (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
30 Jul 24. Skylark Labs to demonstrate C-UAS technology at DoD innovation event. Artificial intelligence specialist Skylark Labs has been selected by the US Department of Defense’s (DoD) Office of Innovation and Modernization to participate in the Technology Innovation Discovery Event (TIDE) 2024. The company will demonstrate its counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) technology.
Sponsored by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, TIDE 2024 will take place on August 28, 2024, at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.
Skylark will demonstrate its ARIES (Aerial Reconnaissance & Elimination System) and other proprietary technologies at the event. These systems are designed to detect, classify, and respond to threats in real-time. Previously, Skylark Labs demonstrated the ARIES system to DoD stakeholders, focusing on its ability to detect and track drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
30 Jul 24. Russia ‘develops interceptor drone’ that shoots net to disable UAS. Russian news portal TAdviser reports that the Russian military has developed an uncrewed aerial systems interceptor known as the ‘Osoed’, which is designed specifically to target and neutralise other drones. The article notes that detailed information on this interceptor is limited, but that it is built on a 9-inch FPV drone platform and is equipped with a special mechanism that shoots a net covering enemy equipment from a distance of several metres.
“The device can reach speeds of up to 140 km/h, and the charge of the battery pack is enough for 24 minutes of flight. The operating range is 4-5 km, the maximum altitude is 5-6 km,” TAdviser says.
Osoed can be equipped with additional equipment, such as thermal imager, making night interceptions possible. In addition, TAdviser reports that a new version will be equipped with a ram that allows a UAV to be destroyed without damaging the Osoed itself.
Earlier this month, Russian media reported that Pervyy Dirizhabl (First Dirigible) had developed a drone protection system comprising a net that is attached to aerostats. For more information; https://tadviser.com/ (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
05 Aug 24. SAE Media Group Acquires Leading Community Hub for C-UAS Professionals. SAE Media Group has completed the acquisition of C-UAS Hub (cuashub.com), a premier resource for news and actionable information in the counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) market. The acquisition joins SMG’s growing family of conferences and publications focused on solutions to detect, track, and ultimately disrupt/destroy unmanned aircraft or drones before they can do harm.
The idea for C-UAS Hub originated when the site’s co-creators – Tom Adams and Casey Flanagan – were working counter-UAS missions in federal law enforcement. While traveling across the United States supporting high-profile events and drone-related criminal investigations, it became readily apparent that there was no central location to find relevant information to support their efforts. They launched the web site in 2022, followed by a daily e-mail newsletter and LinkedIn page.
C-UAS Hub features the latest industry news, original articles, vendor profiles, products, services, events, and jobs, along with a library of guides, references, and research papers. Attracting users from over 180 countries, the site has enjoyed rapid growth. During the first half of 2024, organic search traffic increased by nearly 300% and new users increased by 70%.
“We are passionate about this site and excited to collaborate with SAE Media Group to realise its full potential,” said Tom Adams. “With current events in Ukraine and Israel, and the verified drone threat to prisons, borders, ports, and critical infrastructure, C-UAS Hub will continue to expand and serve as a primary reference for the defence industry, security industry, and law enforcement.”
“This acquisition strengthens our offerings to the C-UAS community and allows us to not only deliver live events but ensures the latest market intelligence is available to industry practitioners 24/7/365,” said Miles Dixon, Managing Director of SMG Conferences. “C-UAS Hub has established itself as the news platform for anti-drone professionals worldwide and we look forward to adding value though our expanded products and services.”
Added SAE Media Group President Joe Pramberger: “For more than a century, SAE has brought together the key stakeholders in aerospace, defence, automotive, and other critical industries to collectively solve important problems for the public good. The acquisition of C-UAS Hub will help us continue that legacy.”
About SAE Media Group
A wholly owned subsidiary of SAE International, SAE Media Group (saemediagroup.com) is comprised of two synergistic organisations: SMG Media, headquartered in New York City, offers a diverse multimedia portfolio of engineering magazines, newsletters, web sites, webcasts, podcasts, and custom marketing services; SMG Conferences, based in London, produces over 45 high-level networking events worldwide, concentrating on the aerospace, military, medical, and pharmaceutical markets. Together, they serve the information needs of one m technical professionals across the globe.
02 Aug 24. US Army awards Raytheon $2bn to begin LTAMDS production.
The production deal comes nearly five years after the service first tapped the company to develop the Patriot replacement radars.
As the US Army moves to build a layered defense system to protect key locations like Guam from aerial threats, it has officially awarded a high-dollar initial production contract of a key component of that plan: a new 360-degree radar dubbed the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense System, or LTAMDS.
Meant to replace the current Patriot radars, the systems will be the first production units fielded some six years after the US government selected Raytheon, now owned by parent company RTX, to deliver six production representative units for testing and other assessment activities. While the duo encountered technical challenges with those initial LTAMDS units that led to a production delay, on Wednesday the service announced it was awarding the company just north of $2 bn to begin low-rate initial production on an unspecified number of radars. Those dollars, the Army added, will run through the end of November 2028.
The contract announcement notes that money for the LTAMDS radars is also funneled in from Foreign Military Sales figures for Poland. In September 2023 Warsaw announced its agreement to buy 12 of the radars, becoming the first international customer for the system.
“The LTAMDS capability increases sensor/radar performance to maximize the inherent Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhanced (MSE) Interceptor capabilities to engage threats,” the service wrote in fiscal 2025 budget request documents. That spending request, still on Capitol Hill, includes $517m to purchase four units next year. If the Army’s current plan sticks, it wants to purchase another five LTAMDS in 2026 and another handful in 2027, before upping the production run to eight units per year in 2028 and 2029, according to budget documents.
Service leaders are currently on a quest to modernize the entire force, including by fielding a new Integrated Air and Missile Defense architecture it can deploy abroad. As tensions have risen between China and the US in recent years, Washington is looking to shore up Guam’s defenses.
LTAMDS is expected to provide the sensing capabilities, surveillance and fire control in the lower tier portion of the ballistic missile defense battlespace. But the new radar is just one part of the equation to better protect the US territory in the Pacific Ocean.
To do that, the Pentagon recently formed a new joint program office (JPO) with Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) head Lt. Gen. Robert Rasch now dual hatted as the lead it. At a Center for Strategic and International Studies event in Washington this week, the three-star general said he is still waiting for FY24 dollars to be reprogrammed so he can expand the small JPO.
“At this point, early on, I would characterize it as a coalition of the willing,” Rasch said.
“This large JPO that you’re imagining is about eight people right now, those eight people are working really, really hard establishing the network of communications,” he later added, noting there is ongoing work with offices like the Missile Defense Agency and the Army’s Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space.
A requirements document is currently working its way through the approval process, and Rasch said he is waiting for Department of Defense leaders to make “key decisions” about which service or agency will “own” various pieces of Guam defense equipment “at the end of the day.” Historically, such ownership questions can be sticky since it requires a service to dedicate part of its budget to buying equipment for a grander plan.
For example, in addition to deploying LTAMDS radars on Guam, the evolving plan also includes the Army’s new command and control system called the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), and the Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) system. The Army Long Range Persistent Surveillance (ALPS), Lockheed Martin’s Remote Interceptor Guidance-360 (RIG–360), Sentinel A3 and A4 radars, as also involved.
The Navy and Air Force also are contributing tech, including the former with Aegis Ashore missile system.
“So really a cacophony of command and control systems. … We’re fighting in a swivel chair fashion and we think we can do better: We think we need to do better,” Rasch told the audience.
In a bid to net together as much as possible before setting up the system on Guam, the Army has embarked on an incremental Integrated Fires Test Campaign. Last year the test series focused on IBCS and LTAMDS integration. This year it is slated to add in Dynetics’ IFPC Inc 2 prototypes. Remaining capabilities will also be folded into the test plan leading up to the 2027 goal of having an operational air defense system protecting the island.
“Not only do I have to get those individual programs across the goal line, they all have to work together,” Brig. Gen. Frank Lozano, the Army’s Program Executive Officer for Missiles and Space said at the same CSIS event this week. (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Breaking Defense.com)
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
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.
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–