Sponsored by Echodyne
www.echodyne.com
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
29 Aug 24. Allen Control Systems Successfully Demonstrates Bullfrog™ Counter-Drone Robotic Gun System at U.S. Department of Defense Technology Readiness Experimentation 2024. Allen Control Systems (ACS), a defense technology leader that has developed the only autonomous counter-drone robotic gun system with unparalleled precision, successfully completed numerous demonstrations of its Bullfrog™ system, including several successful multi-drone engagements at distance during the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Technology Readiness Experimentation 2024 (TREX 24-2). The event, which took place at Camp Atterbury, Indiana from August 19-26, is the premier platform for showcasing and accelerating the deployment of critical defense technologies. TREX 24-2 highlighted that Bullfrog stands alone in the DoD as the only counter-drone solution capable of executing the full detect, track, identify, and defeat kill chain autonomously.
As the sole autonomous kinetic defeat solution selected to participate at TREX, ACS’s Bullfrog system delivered on its promise to demonstrate that a low-cost, low Size Weight and Power (SWaP), autonomous system can accurately and reliably target and destroy drones within seconds. The system integrates ACS’s cutting-edge software, computer vision, and artificial intelligence (AI) with the Service common M240 machine gun, proving its capability to change the dynamics of modern warfare by addressing the increasing threat posed by low-cost, resilient drones.
The ACS team was honored to host and demonstrate Bullfrog’s advanced capability for over 30 VIPs – members of Congress, senior DoD stakeholders, and key counter-drone program offices. These included: Congressman Greg Pence; Honorable Heidi Shyu, Undersecretary of Defense for Research & Engineering; US Special Operations Command; US Marine Corps; US Army Special Operations Command; DoD’s Joint Counter-small UAS Office; Army Futures Command; and the Defense Innovation Board. Over the two weeks of TREX, Bullfrog™ consistently demonstrated kinetic defeat of drones day after day, including multi-drone engagements in rapid succession – generating significant government stakeholder interest to immediately partner with ACS. This is a clear indication of an accelerated demand trajectory across DoD that is materializing now.
“Our resounding success at TREX validates that our counter-drone robotic gun system achieves, what has been a near-impossibility until now, the ability to autonomously shoot drones out of the sky with a solution that doesn’t cost the DoD millions of dollars to procure or arm. This means that there is now a solution to address the urgent threat of low-flying, cheap drones that have changed the battlefield,” said Steven Simoni, co-founder and CEO of ACS. “We are grateful to the Defense Department for providing the opportunity to showcase our system. The Bullfrog system’s successful performance during the TREX event marks a significant milestone on the path toward deployment, supporting our mission to accelerate the defense industry’s transition to advanced, cost-effective technologies that protect U.S. military and allies on the battlefield.”
Modern warfare has become drone warfare: the U.S. and our allies are vulnerable to a new class of cheap, deadly weapons for which there is currently no dependable and cost-effective defense. Today’s drones are increasingly immune from jamming, shielded from directed energy defenses, and more lethal than ever, often being deployed in swarms. A kinetic solution that physically destroys a drone is the only reliable defense in the long term; but the small size, high speed, and maneuverability of drones makes them extraordinarily difficult for humans to shoot down manually, even with AI assistance.
Using the unique combination of advanced software and machine vision capabilities paired with commodity hardware, the Bullfrog is expected to be more accurate than anything else ever developed, at a cost magnitudes cheaper than what it costs to produce drones. Most notably, the Bullfrog’s cost-per-kill of a drone is expected to be around $10, compared to the economically unsustainable status quo of using million-dollar missiles to defend against $1000 drones.
About Allen Control Systems
Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a defense technology company building counter-drone robotic gun systems for a new era of drone warfare and to completely change battlefield economics. Our mission is to create autonomous precision weapon systems to safeguard our military and allies, ensuring dominance on every battlefield. ACS was founded by Steven Simoni, Luke Allen, and Mike Wior. Simoni and Allen are former U.S. Navy nuclear engineers who met in the service. Both were instrumentation and control systems engineers for Navy nuclear reactors. Their backgrounds span robotics, computer vision, machine learning, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and computer science. ACS is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices in Alexandria, Va. For more information, please visit https://www.allencontrolsystems.com/ and follow us on LinkedIn and X. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
29 Aug 24. Triton AUSV to Receive Next-Gen Payloads. Ocean Aero has selected Forcys to provide advanced sonar and navigation systems, including Sonardyne’s SPRINT-Nav Mini and Wavefront Systems’ Solstice MAS, for the Triton AUSV. Forcys has been chosen by Ocean Aero as a payload provider for the Triton autonomous underwater and surface vehicle (AUSV).
The partnership will combine Forcys’ expertise in the marine defense market and access to many technology partners with Ocean Aero’s diverse applications for the Triton.
As part of the agreement, Forcys will provide the Solstice multi-aperture sonar (MAS) system, produced by Wavefront Systems.
Additionally, Forcys will be supplying Ocean Aero with the SPRINT-Nav Mini, one of the smallest hybrid acoustic-inertial navigation systems, developed by Sonardyne.
The Triton is an environmentally powered AUSV. Completely solar and wind powered, it can travel at speeds of up to 5 knots and can submerge for up to 5 days at 2 knots.
The Triton can be used as a force multiplier for defense operations, offering easy logistics, launch, and recovery while evading detection using autonomous avoidance and deep diving capabilities.
Bob Marthouse, COO from Ocean Aero, commented, “A key differentiation in our selection process is the performance to power ratio. We need to maximize the value from our payloads while managing the power consumption to sustain our mission goals. This is where the technology from Forcys makes a significant difference. On our last mission, everyone was highly impressed with the Solstice MAS.”
Forcys’ General Manager and Head of Global Sales, Dan Zatezalo, added, “We are thrilled that Ocean Aero has chosen us as their payload provider for defence applications. Their revolutionary technology is a great complement to our offer, and we think their customers are going to love the results. We look forward to working with them in driving the autonomous ocean defense technology sector forward.” (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
29 Aug 24. Cuashub.com said today that OpenWorks announces AI surveillance system for border security. OpenWorks has announced the development of Vision Guard, a new autonomous surveillance system designed for border security. Vision Guard, which has been in development for the past year, is expected to be deployed in active and passive configurations with various end users in the near future. Vision Guard is engineered for challenging environments and offers a portable, covert forward observation and autonomous surveillance solution. The system includes a panoramic optical sensor, a processor unit that powers and manages data from multiple sensors and a variety of active and passive sensors tailored to specific missions. The system is designed to meet the evolving demands of border security, offering not only quick deployment but also ease of use in various operational environments. The system’s versatility ensures it can be effectively utilised in both temporary and permanent installations, enhancing situational awareness and response capabilities. It is particularly suited for dismounted operations and features automated alerts with AI-driven detection and classification. Alerts are transmitted to a handheld tablet or other command systems through standard interfaces such as COT, ATAK and SAPIENT. While Vision Guard can operate independently, it is also designed to complement existing long-range surveillance platforms and towers, filling gaps in coverage. The system can be set up within minutes and strategically placed to monitor areas that may be blind spots for larger systems. OpenWorks plans to demonstrate Vision Guard later in 2024 and will showcase it at major European and North American test exercises to gather feedback from the end-user community and guide further development. Vision Guard leverages technology already in use within other OpenWorks products, ensuring reliability and seamless integration into various operational scenarios. Its lightweight, portable design allows for rapid deployment in diverse environments, from rugged terrains to urban settings. The system supports both active and passive surveillance, integrating data from optical sensors with third-party radar, acoustic and RF sensors to provide comprehensive coverage. Automated target classification helps reduce operator workload by focusing attention only on genuine threats. https://cuashub.com/en/content/openworks-announces-autonomous-surveillance-system-for-border-security/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9pdxyLGHZHNlQJrUBcIOvFqSVsSc7xA1MSwnbAqKgN0St-wlbDi16-5icqTwHD9JLDt8OFOKPBDrfVZcHqBvJZdssFL4vgVj5rWdqN7ZJBRFY47Wg&_hsmi=322255866&utm_content=322255866&utm_source=hs_email (Source: C-UAS Hub)
29 Aug 24. Cuashub.com said today that Indian Army seeks to strengthen counter-UAS capabilities. The Indian Army is escalating its defences against the increasing UAS threat through a combination of existing and new countermeasures, according to Indian media sources. While the military has already deployed various radars, integrated drone detection systems and advanced weaponry, it is now seeking to further enhance its counter-UAS capabilities by acquiring sophisticated Anti-UAS High Power Microwave (AUHPM) systems. The recent Request for Information (RFI) issued by the Indian Army signals a strategic shift in their counter-UAS approach. This RFI details the procurement of the AUHPM (Mk II) system, a state-of-the-art solution designed to improve the Army’s ability to detect, track and neutralise drone threats. The system will integrate a microprocessor for precise targeting and will be capable of both “hard kill” (destruction) and “soft kill” (disruption) operations. Additionally, the Army is prioritising self-reliance in defence technology by specifying that at least 50 percent of the system’s content should be indigenous, in line with the nation’s self-dependence initiative. The urgency of bolstering counter-UAS defences is underscored by recent global events that have highlighted the growing role of drones in modern warfare. In April 2024, Iran launched a massive drone attack against Israel, deploying over 170 drones in one of the largest such offensives in military history. Israel’s ability to counter this threat demonstrated the critical need for advanced counter-UAS systems. Similarly, the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen extensive use of UAS, further illustrating the necessity of robust anti-drone defences.
“Successfully countering these threats requires a combination of both soft and hard kill strategies,” said a senior defence official.
“We have measures in place, but we are also seeking upgrades. For example, we are exploring smart ammunition for our guns, such as pre-fragmented rounds. Work is ongoing in this direction. Our Integrated Drone Detection System and Drone Kill System are operational, but we must stay ahead of evolving threats,” the official added.
Given these developments, the Indian Army’s pursuit of advanced AUHPM systems reflects a proactive approach to securing its personnel and critical infrastructure against the evolving drone threat. The acquisition of these systems is expected to significantly enhance the Army’s defensive capabilities, ensuring readiness against both current and future UAS challenges.
(Source: C-UAS Hub)
29 Aug 24. Cuashub.com said today that Sentrycs recognised as C-UAS innovation leader. Sentrycs, has been named a C-UAS innovation leader in the 2024 Frost Radar for the Israeli market. This recognition highlights the company’s advancements in developing systems designed to detect, track, identify and neutralise a wide range of commercial drones. Additionally, Sentrycs’ technology enables the location of drone operators, which strengthens protection for both military and civilian environments. The Frost Radar evaluation emphasised the technical capabilities of Sentrycs, particularly its use of RF Protocol Analytics, machine learning and automated processes for identifying and mitigating drone threats. Frost & Sullivan’s assessment highlights the technical capabilities that have contributed to Sentrycs’ success. According to Avi Kalo, Middle East Regional Aerospace & Defence Leader at Frost & Sullivan:
“Sentrycs’ advanced RF Protocol Analytics-based technology, machine learning capabilities and automated research processes along with its agility in making new capabilities operational on the ground have significantly contributed to its rapid rise in the C-UAS market and positioned it as a leader in innovation.”
In a statement following the recognition, Yoav Zaltzman, CEO of Sentrycs, expressed appreciation for the acknowledgement, stating:
“We are honoured to be recognised for our work in advancing C-UAS technology. This reflects the efforts of our team to develop solutions that address the increasingly complex challenges posed by unauthorised drone activity. Our focus remains on ensuring that our systems continue to meet the changing needs of our customers across different sectors.”
Sentrycs’ inclusion in the Frost Radar underscores its growing role in the development of C-UAS technologies. As drone-related threats become more sophisticated, the demand for accurate, adaptable and effective solutions is increasing.
The company continues to expand its presence both within Israel and internationally, responding to the needs of governments, defence organisations, and private industry for reliable drone detection and mitigation systems.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/sentrycs-recognised-as-c-uas-innovation-leader/?utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8ElUYjW37SmSfQE_XYDbxiuLNfvSHGfwDrxZl0IzndMmIRtbNYEDs3_znTFECnWEw0dYl2H8jPMxAhAnrPD-D3XUUJ9JN52kvot_I5RKzjQyztTXI&_hsmi=322255866&utm_content=322255866&utm_source=hs_email (Source: C-UAS Hub)
27 Aug 24. X-Vision Optics, a leading name in optics technology, announced the launch of the all-new Impact 100 Thermal Laser Rangefinder. This innovative device is designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and professionals, providing exceptional precision and reliability. X-Vision Optics understands that knowing the distance in darkness is just as important as knowing it during daylight.
Its ergonomic design ensures easy handling and quick deployment, making it an essential tool for any serious hunter. The rangefinder’s crisp, high-contrast display provides clear visuals in all conditions, enhancing your ability to track and identify game in dense foliage or low-light settings. With rugged construction and superior optics, the Impact 100 is designed to withstand the elements, delivering exceptional performance and reliability every time you step into the field.
The Impact 100 enhances outdoor experiences with its advanced technology and user-focused design. Key features include:
- Enhanced Thermal Imaging: Equipped with state-of-the-art thermal sensors, the Impact 100 provides superior image quality and detail for precise target identification.
- Extended Detection Range: Capable of detecting targets up to 1,200 yards away, the Impact 100 offers unmatched accuracy for long-range applications.
- Versatile Functionality: The Impact 100 adapts to various scenarios with multiple modes and settings, making it a versatile tool for different situations.
- Robust Construction: Featuring a durable, shock-resistant build, the Impact 100 is engineered for reliable performance in tough conditions.
- Intuitive Controls: With easy-to-use controls and a clear display, the Impact 100 ensures a seamless user experience, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in the field.
$774.99 MSRP
The Impact 100 Thermal Laser Rangefinder is an accessory that works exclusively with the Impact 150, 250, and 350 Thermal Scopes, providing comprehensive solutions for various thermal imaging needs.
26 Aug 24. Germany: current C-UAS systems “unable to stop drone spying flights.” Germany’s Bild newspaper reports that a no-fly zone over a nuclear power plant had been violated several times this month. According to Bild, authorities with the Schleswig-Holstein state criminal police agency assume that the so-far unidentified drones are Russian Orlan-10s, which have a range of 500 to 600 kilometres and can fly over 100 kilometres an hour.
Unidentified drones were seen primarily over an industrial zone in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, where a local nuclear power plant (non-working), chemical plants, and a liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal are located, according to Bild.
According to the EU Today news site: “One notable incident occurred late on the evening of 20 August when a drone, reportedly travelling at speeds of over 100 kilometres per hour, was detected above the nuclear facility. German police have confirmed that the drone breached a no-fly zone multiple times.”
In an earlier edition, the Bild newspaper reported the German army has known about the problem for quite some time. “In October 2022, General Carsten Breuer (59), then commander of the Territorial Command, was alarmed by drone alarms. Particularly affected: locations where the Bundeswehr trains Ukrainians….In a hasty move, Breuer had military police trained in the use of the HP 47 jammer. Such jammers can force drones to land. However, the effectiveness of the HP 47 had not been sufficiently investigated.”
According to Reuters, the issue has intensified over the last few days as German prosecutors have opened an investigation into repeated drone flights over critical infrastructure in northern Germany on suspicion of espionage activity. “The Flensburg public prosecutor’s office has initiated a preliminary investigation on suspicion of “agent activity for sabotage purposes in connection with repeated drone flights,” according to a senior public prosecutor.
For more information:
Germany Probes Russian Links to Drone Activity Over Nuclear Plant
https://news.online.ua/en/the-russian-federation-is-spying-in-germany-with-the-help-of-drones-883712/
https://www.bild.de/politik/inland/kolumne/alarm-spionage-drohnen-alarm-ueber-bundeswehr-stuetzpunkten-86659216.bild.html
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
23 Aug 24. MSI delivers six C-UAS units to US defence department. MSI Defense Solutions has delivered the first six of its 70mm centric counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) units that were acquired by the United States Department of Defense. Through the Rapid Acquisition Authority, MSI was awarded a contract for six EAGLS™ (Electronic Advanced Ground Launcher System) C-UAS, including associated engineering and maintenance support. The contract was awarded by Naval Air Systems Command to support forward deployed forces facing emerging and persistent drone threats. EAGLS provides a mobile or stationary system that can be used in a variety of environments and on multiple platform types. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
27 Aug 24. Indian Army ‘seeks solutions to neutralise drone swarms.’ Various Indian media outlets report that the Indian Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for high power microwave systems capable of defeating uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). For example, Defence.in notes that the RFI is for “the procurement of 45 Anti-UAS High Power Microwave Mark-II System (AUHPM Mk-II) to neutralise UAS and swarm drones”. According to the media reports, the Indian Army specifies a minimum range of 5 km and the ability to operate in various terrains, including high altitudes, plains, deserts, and coastal areas. The counter-UAS systems are required to provide advanced surveillance, detection, and tracking capabilities, “with a microprocessor for precise targeting and a High Power Microwave weapon system capable of both hard kill and soft kill”. The RFI reportedly also specifies a preference for systems with at least 50 percent indigenous content. For more information: Indian Ministry of Defence: https://mod.gov.in/ (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
23 Aug 24. On July 31, 2024, the first EagleEye multi-mode radar came off the production line of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The new radar is a high-performance system that delivers high-resolution, photographic-quality imagery that can be captured through clouds, rain, dust, smoke, and fog at multiple times the range of previous radars. EagleEye will be a “drop-in” radar enhancement for the U.S. Army’s current Gray Eagle Extended Range Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and is part of the initial configuration for the new Gray Eagle 25M (GE 25M) UAS. The Army National Guard has ordered 12 GE 25Ms.
“The EagleEye radar has improved range and multi-mode performance, which is tailored to the deep sensing capability required for Multi-Domain Operations (MDO),” said Jeff Hettick, GA-ASI vice president of Agile Mission Systems. “We look forward to delivering the EagleEye to our U.S. Army customer in the near future.”
Earlier this year, GA-ASI announced the development of a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna and associated software for EagleEye, which will increase range and deliver significant mode enhancements. The radar’s increased range and optimized multi-mode performance allow the aircraft to operate well outside the Weapons Effects Zone of most threat systems, adding a layer of survivability that supports the Stand-Off survivability with Stand-In effects of long-range sensors, which is a key component of the Gray Eagle 25M being developed for the U.S. Army.
EagleEye is a multi-mode radar that builds on years of pioneering expertise by GA-ASI. Using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), EagleEye enables operators to look in detail through atmospheric conditions that might obscure a purely visual sensor. And for the first time on the Gray Eagle platform, EagleEye delivers radar-based Full-Motion Video (FMV) capability called “Video SAR,” which enables live visual tracking of moving targets — even during heavy cloud cover. As part of the EagleEye development, GA-ASI has improved target detection range using real-time Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) software that runs on board the aircraft.
The EagleEye radar performs Moving Target Indication (MTI), detects changes, builds stripmaps, and yields other precise insights to analysts, commanders, and operators using industry-standard data formats. With its Maritime Wide Area Search (MWAS) mode, EagleEye also provides a dedicated maritime MTI mode for tracking and targeting vessels. This further supports the MDO mission set of the U.S. Army, particularly in support of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). The same mission is a focus for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East where there is an increased need for maritime reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition, which is critical to achieve information dominance and overmatch.
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
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.
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————