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27 Sept 24. Japan doubles down on new maritime electronic warfare aircraft. Recent budget documents released by the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) has revealed its intent to seek additional funding to develop a new electronic warfare (EW) aircraft for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
According to the documents, the MoD has requested ¥41.4bn (approximately US$290m) for fiscal year 2025 to continue development of a new EW platform based on the Kawasaki P-1 maritime patrol aircraft (MPA). The MoD earlier secured ¥14.1bn for fiscal year 2024.
“In order to respond to the increasingly complex electronic warfare environment, an electronic warfare aircraft will be developed based on the P-1…contributing to strengthening the electromagnetic domain capabilities required for cross-domain operations,” the MoD stated.
The MoD noted that the new EW aircraft program is part of a broader effort to “strengthen Japan’s deterrence and response capabilities” by developing “equipment capable of neutralising enemy radar and communications”.
A preliminary graphic of the P-1 based EW aircraft shows several conformal antenna blisters on the top of the fuselage and under the nose.
This development also seeks to provide a highly automated information gathering and analysis capability for long-range and persistent airborne observation, detection, tracking, and classification, thereby improving the Self-Defense Force’s operational performance.
The JMSDF currently operates five Lockheed EP-3 Orion special mission aircraft – which perform a range of roles including communications and signals intelligence (COMINT and SIGINT) – that were first introduced in the early 1990s, which are becoming increasingly obsolescent in a rapidly changing operating environment as well as harder to maintain beyond the mid-2020s.
The MoD also pointed out the challenges of acquiring foreign-made systems, given the sensitive nature of such operations.
“In implementing this project, we aim to shorten development time and reduce costs by utilizing the existing P-1 and the results of previous research, as well as by utilizing [commercially available] products,” the MoD stated. (Source: AMR)
27 Sept 24. Hensoldt launches new Bushbaby 200 electro-optical system. Hensoldt South Africa has launched its new Bushbaby 200 long range electro-optical system for ground-based applications.
The Bushbaby 200 was officially unveiled at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition. With the ability to rotate 360 degrees and an elevation range of -45 degrees to +96 degrees, the Bushbaby 200 system offers the operator the ability to view any potential threat in the distance and by using the laser range finder, identify the range of that threat, as well as the coordinates of it thanks to an internal global navigation satellite system (GNSS).
The system has the ability to be both static and portable, allowing it to function in many different situations. It was designed to be used in border surveillance but can be used in many other roles like force protection, targeting and reconnaissance and also by a forward observer.
Image stabilisation is in the form of a gyro-stabilised 2-axis system that works in conjunction with the image processor to allow clear images at very long distances. The thermal imaging capabilities allow it to be used in a long range observational and situational awareness capacity in all conditions, day or night. It even has the ability to fuse infrared and daylight imaging into a single video stream (video can be recorded).
The Bushbaby 200 is a completely new system, not simply an upgrade from the smaller Bushbaby 100 that Hensoldt South Africa launched in Saudi Arabia in February this year – that is a short to medium distance optical system that has a specific function of its own.
Hensoldt South Africa Head of Sales, Sunette van Rensburg, confirmed the Bushbaby 200 is a completely new system with different capabilities. She said that the Bushbaby 200 features a South African designed Kenis thermal imager which is the same one used in the company’s Argos-15 airborne surveillance and targeting system.
According to Hensoldt South Africa, the daylight electro-optical camera can detect larger objects like vehicles at 36.7 km, recognise them at 29 km, and identify them at 24 km. It can detect a human at over 25 km away and identify that individual at over 13 km away. The laser rangefinder has a range of 30 km with an accuracy of roughly 3 metres. The system is able to geolocate objects and record object date and imagery.
The control panel and screen of the Bushbaby 200 long range electro optical system.
“We’re moving out of a pure military market with some of these products into a bit more parastatal security. We’re not going to focus with these products solely on military end-users but rather critical infrastructure protection, airfield and sea port protection, military and force protection, national key point monitoring, coastal and maritime surveillance, and border patrol,” Hensoldt South Africa’s Leon Potgieter said.
The original Bushbaby was launched in 2020 as a land-based long-range imaging system for persistent surveillance, allowing the operator to identify and track intrusions, smugglers, terrorists, drones or any other conventional or asymmetric threat.
The Bushbaby is non-ITAR, like the majority of Hensoldt South Africa’s products. The system’s modular design allows easy customisation and upgrades with additional sensors, with envisioned integration with radar, artificial intelligence, radio frequency, and signals intelligence.
It complements the company’s other surveillance capabilities, including radar and electro-optical sensors. Hensoldt South Africa’s combined radar and electro-optical surveillance system is, for example, protecting nearly two thousand rhinos in the world’s largest rhino conservancy.
One of Hensoldt’s key portfolio areas is border security solutions, with Hensoldt South Africa having the vision to be the main turnkey solution provider for border authorities.
(Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
27 Sep 24. Cambridge Pixel’s advanced radar acquisition, processing and display solutions have been chosen by TSS Solutions of Melbourne, Florida, USA, as part of a larger project to upgrade the capabilities of one of TSS’ AN/TPS-43 transportable 3D radar systems.
TSS’ radar upgrades provide enhanced detection capabilities for air-defence operations, as well as giving the owners of existing radar equipment an affordable option over purchasing a new, highly expensive system.
As experts in the modernization of tactical radar systems, TSS Solutions uses state-of-the-art technology to improve the radar sensitivity, stability, display, and other features in its TIGAR (TSS Integrated Ground-based Air Radar) system, which is a fully upgraded AN/TPS-43, AN/TPS-70, AN/TPS-72, AN/TPS-75, or AN/TPS-78.
To support these upgrades, TSS has selected products from Cambridge Pixel’s modular software that provide the very high levels of performance and flexibility needed to meet the project requirements.
By combining TSS Solutions’ extensive expertise in radar technology with Cambridge Pixel’s advanced radar processing and display capability, the upgrade delivers significant enhancements to the capabilities of the OEM system. Cambridge Pixel has a wide range of radar interfacing, processing, target tracking, and operator display components that support a very wide range of radar types and manufacturers
Cambridge Pixel’s founder and managing director, David Johnson, said, “We are pleased to be able to offer the level of flexibility and expertise required to support such a highly technically-capable company like TSS. Our modular solutions allow customers to choose the capabilities they require, and our wide experience allows us to deliver first class engineer-to-engineer support.”
25 Sept 24. Eonix to Develop Ultra-High-Power Batteries for C-UAS & eVTOL Systems. Eonix is leveraging the ATLAS platform to accelerate the discovery of battery materials tailored for directed energy systems, counter-drone technologies, and eVTOL applications. Eonix has been selected by AFWERX for a PHASE II STTR contract with the University of Tennessee Tickle College of Engineering focused on ultra-high-power batteries for directed energy, counter drone swarms, and eVTOL systems.
The $1.7m in funds will be used to design high conductivity electrolytes that are drop-in compatible with batteries manufactured today, and meet the ambitious DoD energy storage targets for next-gen platforms.
Eonix is leveraging its ATLAS platform to enhance battery product development, which is 40x faster and 15x lower cost than traditional R&D methods.
Previously harnessed for projects backed by Army/DOE/NSF/Air Force, the ATLAS platform pairs real-time measurement of material behavior in batteries with quantum mechanics simulations to train AI models, significantly accelerating materials discovery.
These models predict material performance and suggest novel material candidates, marking a significant leap forward in the mission for next-gen energy storage solutions.
Eonix Founder Don Derosa commented, “New technologies like Directed Energy, Counter Small Unmanned Aircraft (C-sUAS), and electric Vertical Take Off Landing (e-VTOL) Systems promise to transform modern air defense systems by offering cost-effective engagement, enhanced base resiliency, and advanced surveillance and attack capabilities.
“Our ATLAS materials discovery platform will design a next generation battery chemistry that improves power density, discharge rate, and operational temperature…thus powering the Air Force to respond to a rapid evolution of aerial threats.”
(Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
26 Sept 24. Advanced C-UAS Technology Showcased at NATO TIE Event. Rohde & Schwarz showcased its ARDRONIS C-UAS family at the NATO TIE event, demonstrating solutions designed to manually control drones through RF jamming techniques.
Rohde & Schwarz successfully demonstrated its ARDRONIS C-UAS (counter-uncrewed aerial systems) family, integrated through the updated SAPIENT standard protocol, at the NATO Technical Interoperability Exercise (TIE) event in Vredepeel, Netherlands.
Rohde & Schwarz’ ARDRONIS Effect was tested for the first time at the NATO TIE exercise. ARDRONIS Effect is designed to stop drones that are manually controlled via RF and provides a range of reactive and non-reactive jamming modes.
The system proved an effective solution against modern drone communications links used in different scenarios.
The ARDRONIS C-UAS family automatically detects and identifies drones based on their radio signals, providing a robust defense against the growing threat of UAS.
For the event, ARDRONIS was integrated into the SAPIENT protocol. This enables data from sensors and effectors to be converted into a common language and shared across networks, supporting the C-UAS mission.
The TIE exercise brings together civilian and military specialists, as well as over 60 industry participants, to test counter-drone technologies and ensure seamless communication and integration between different systems.
Rohde & Schwarz assert that the company is dedicated to supporting the standardization system of NATO, and is committed to ensuring the compatibility of its C-UAS solutions with other systems on the market.
By participating in the NATO TIE exercise, the company is demonstrating its commitment to advancing the development of effective counter-drone technologies.
Markus Eiber, Vice President Spectrum Monitoring & CUAV Systems, Rohde & Schwarz, commented, “We are committed to the SAPIENT interface and supporting the standardization system of NATO for CUAS systems. Testing the SAPIENT interface is crucial as our goal is to simplify the integration of our system into larger systems. This ensures that our C-UAS solutions can effectively work together with other systems to counter the rapidly evolving drone threat.”
(Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
26 Sep 24. Cuashub.com said today that U.S. Army seeks radar modules for remote weapon systems. The U.S. Army Contracting Command, on behalf of the Product Director for Crew Served Weapons at Picatinny Arsenal, has issued a request for information (RFI) to identify companies that can provide C-UAS radar modules designed for remote weapon systems (RWS). This initiative aims to enhance the Army’s ability to detect, track and neutralise sUAS with minimal modifications to existing technologies.
The Army’s inquiry seeks mature radar technologies capable of rapidly integrating with RWS to address increasing threats posed by class 1 and 2 unmanned systems, which include low, slow and small drones. The Army emphasises its need for radar systems with multi-target tracking capability and the ability to detect sUAS targets up to 2km away.
Key requirements for radar modules
- Radar Module Design: The U.S. Army is seeking a system compatible with RWS applications requiring minimal design changes for integration. Providers are expected to submit detailed radar characteristics, including system growth potential, operating frequency bands, control system types and system dimensions. A specific form factor is required, as the radar will need to physically mount on an RWS.
- Interface and Interoperability: The radar system must interface with existing communication protocols, including ethernet, RS232 or RS422. Data transmission and seamless integration into the RWS architecture are critical components of the system’s expected performance.
- Environmental and Power Specifications: The radar must comply with stringent environmental standards and power requirements and capable of functioning in extreme temperatures. The U.S. Army also seeks a a 15-year procurable life, with a mean time between failures of 15,000 hours.
Meeting the growing C-UAS challenge
The request highlights the growing importance of C-UAS technologies as small drones become increasingly integrated into modern warfare, with sUAS being regularly deployed in Ukraine for surveillance and offensive capabilities. The radar module must enable RWS to detect and respond to such threats autonomously or with minimal human intervention.
Given the rapid advancement of UAS technologies, particularly from near-peer adversaries, the U.S. Army’s search for innovative radar solutions reflects its need to modernise and enhance its defensive capabilities. Drones used for reconnaissance and attacks pose an increasing risk to military operations, and systems that can effectively identify and neutralise these threats are a priority.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/u-s-army-seeks-radar-modules-for-remote-weapon-systems/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
20 Sep 24. Forcys Sees Record Sales of Intruder Detection Sonar.
There has been a surge in sales for the Sentinel Intruder Detection Sonar (IDS), which detects, tracks, and classifies divers and uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs).
Forcys has seen a significant surge this year in sales of Sentinel IDS®, a leading Intruder Detection Sonar.
Sentinel, developed by Covelya Group technology partner Wavefront Systems, detects, tracks and classifies divers and uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) approaching a protected asset from any direction and alerts security personnel to the threat.
It can be deployed on demand by expeditionary teams or installed permanently as part of a network of multiple sonar heads to provide underwater situational awareness.
Able to identify divers at ranges of up to 1,000m and UUVs at 1,500m, Sentinel takes reliable, long range underwater intruder detection to a new level and is used in defence, Critical National Infrastructure, vessel and VIP protection duties around the world.
Ioseba Tena, Forcys MD, said; ”With tense security levels across much of the globe, increasing numbers of navies and defence organisations are relying on Sentinel to protect their assets. It’s no surprise that this year has seen our largest volume of Sentinel sales to date, and I am particularly proud that the Forcys teams across Australia, the UK and the US have played a significant part in achieving this. We are thrilled to continue to lead the way in protecting the world’s underwater spaces and grateful for our customer’s ongoing trust in our products and services.”
Sentinel protects assets that range from naval ports and vessels to other potential sabotage targets. As an example, Wavefront supplied Sentinel to protect the River Seine during the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, a demonstration of the level of confidence customers place in the system on the world stage.
(Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
25 Sep 24. Raytheon Completes 1st AN/TPY-2 Radar for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- This latest version features GaN technology for increased sensitivity.
Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has delivered the first AN/TPY-2 radar for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The AN/TPY-2 is a missile defense radar that can detect, track and discriminate ballistic missiles in multiple phases of flight.
This is the first AN/TPY-2 radar with a complete Gallium Nitride, or GaN, populated array in the system. GaN is a glasslike material that offers key advantages over other radio frequency semiconductors in energy efficiency, weight and power output. GaN technology provides greater sensitivity to increase range as well as expand surveillance capacity. This technology is also a key enabler in allowing the AN/TPY-2 radar to support the hypersonic mission.
“The latest AN/TPY-2 radar is now in a different class with Raytheon making more than 50 enhancements to the radar,” said Paul Ferraro, President, Air & Space Defense Systems, Raytheon. “These upgrades will help Saudi Arabia to better defend itself from missile threats and will additionally benefit the entire fleet with enhanced sensing capability.”
AN/TPY-2 operates in the X-band of the electromagnetic spectrum. This enables it to see targets more clearly and distinguish between an actual threat to a defended area and non-threat objects, like separation debris. When operating in Terminal mode, AN/TPY-2 is directly in the fire control loop of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) ballistic missile defense system through its direct communication with the THAAD missile.
(Source: ASD Network)
25 Sep 24. On-the-move Capabilities Demonstrated by Elbit America’s MATR-X Radar in US Navy Experiments. Smaller than a suitcase and mounted to a 55-foot government vessel traveling at 15 knots, a specialized radar sped through the waters of Lake Huron in mid-July. Despite a barrage of inputs – information collected and processed on-the-move – the radar identified all potential threats in the environment, tracked them, and could link the most appropriate countermeasure for a fictional interdiction.
The radar was Elbit System of America’s (Elbit America) Multi-Mission AESA Tactical Radar – X-band, or simply, MATR-X, and it was put to the test during a recent series of experimental events in Alpena, Mich. called “Silent Swarm.” Sponsored by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, Integrated Sensing and Cyber and led by Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane Division, Silent Swarm wrapped after two-weeks, involving numerous capabilities and innovators. Silent Swarm is an experimentation event designed to drive advancements in electromagnetic warfare capabilities. It provided Elbit America the opportunity to test the MATR-X radar’s utility in an operationally relevant environment. This event was also the first time that MATR-X was mounted aboard a ship and provided essential testing data for successful integration on future vessels.
Elbit America’s MATR-X has a 360-degree field of regard and can track up to 10,000 targets simultaneously. The system is lightweight, easy to set-up, and nearly inescapable when it comes to detecting threats. The system’s active electronically scanned array radiates multiple beams of radio waves at various frequencies in every direction, picking up the signatures of people, and non-biological threats such as unmanned aerial vehicles, uncrewed surface vessels, and other vehicles. In the congested modern battlefield, MATR-X offers the sensing, tracking, and targeting needed for users to see the big picture and respond accordingly.
“This is Elbit America’s second year participating in Silent Swarm, and we demonstrated the MATR-X’s radar’s ability to perform on-the-move and in a variety of simulations,” said Guy Landau, Elbit America Senior Vice President and General Manager of Integrated Solutions. “MATR-X continues to impress potential users and our team. We’re excited for this capability and all it can offer our customers.”
With MATR-X’s utility, size and minimal power requirements, applications for the radar abound. The system can be used to cut through the clutter of a congested battlefield, providing exceptional situational awareness to rapidly engage hostile threats, ideal for counter unmanned systems (C-UXS) applications. (Source: ASD Network)
25 Sept 24. Hensoldt reveals new ARGOS-15 gimbal. At AAD 2024 the Hensoldt Argos-15 was fitted to the Milkor 380 UAV.
Hensoldt South Africa has unveiled its new-generation ARGOS-15 airborne surveillance and targeting system during a launch at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition.
The company said the system represents a significant advancement in multispectral sensor technology and is ideal for modern intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. What sets the 15-inch gimbal apart is an advanced, modular design, and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered functionalities.
At the heart of the ARGOS-15 is an AI-powered object detection, classification and tracking system. Using an integrated graphics processing unit (GPU), operators can effortlessly detect and track targets with its advanced one-shot object classifier, reducing workload and improving mission efficiency, while real-time processing allows rapid decision-making in dynamic environments, Hensoldt explained.
The 53 kg ARGOS-15 builds on the success of the widely deployed ARGOS-II, integrated on more than 34 platforms worldwide. Its image fusion capabilities combine thermal, daylight and SWIR (short wave infrared) sensors, ensuring optimal visibility in the most challenging environments, including detrimental light and weather conditions. Multi-spectral video is simultaneously available, exposing different information from the scene.
Four-axis stabilisation coupled with a high-precision inertial measurement unit (IMU) delivers sub-5 μrad stabilisation for superior image clarity, giving what Hensoldt said is reliable performance during long-range surveillance and target acquisition for medium to high altitude missions (up to 50 000 feet) on both manned and unmanned platforms.
The ARGOS-15 features a comprehensive laser suite, featuring a dual-wavelength, high-power laser-designator and rangefinder for precise intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) capabilities.
Designed, developed and manufactured in South Africa, the ARGOS-15 is subject to South African export regulations, offering wide exportability and ease of integration.
“With production deliveries beginning mid-2025, the ARGOS-15 is set to become the global benchmark for airborne surveillance and reconnaissance missions,” Hensoldt said.
“Hensoldt has been at the forefront of airborne imaging technology for over 35 years. With the launch of the ARGOS-15, we are reinforcing our position as a leading provider of airborne imaging technologies. This system’s superior capabilities will ensure that our customers remain at the forefront of modern surveillance and reconnaissance missions,” said Sunette van Rensburg, Head of Sales of Hensoldt’s Optronics business in South Africa. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
26 Sep 24. Cuashub.com said today that Pierce Aerospace launches remote ID sensor. Pierce Aerospace has announced the official launch of its YR1 Remote ID Sensor. The YR1 sensor is designed to provide both commercial and government stakeholders with a professional-grade, affordable solution for airspace awareness. The YR1 sensor is a key component of Pierce Aerospace’s Flight Portal ID Remote ID Services, which has been in use with early adopters and U.S. Government customers since early 2024.
The system is engineered for long-range detection and is designed to be highly adaptable, with the ability to layer and network across various environments, from urban centres to airports and public safety operations. The versatility and affordability of the YR1 make it particularly attractive to airports, law enforcement and other entities responsible for maintaining airspace security.
“The YR1 builds from our past prototypes utilised in US Government experiments and operations, including supporting temporary flight restrictions and national security special events,” said Aaron Pierce, CEO of Pierce Aerospace.
“Over the past year, the YR1 has been installed to provide airspace awareness for urban, suburban and rural airspaces, detecting drones over downtown metropolitan areas, at concerts and public gatherings and at airports.”
“The YR1 works across various use cases, satisfying government, commercial, and public safety airspace needs without having federal restrictions placed on its use and operation. We’ve turned on the YR1’s at airports and immediately started detecting drones actively flying in the immediate airspace.”
One of the YR1’s its key benefits is its capacity for integration with third-party vendors. By working with Pierce Aerospace’s Flight Portal ID Services, the YR1 data streams can feed directly into various systems, including Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM), command and control (C2), common operational pictures and C-UAS systems. This capability allows users to tailor the YR1 to their operational needs, ensuring a broad range of applicability from airport operations to public safety.
“The YR1 is the tip of the iceberg,” Pierce continued. “The YR1 captures the data that powers our Flight Portal Remote ID Services—a suite of software and data streams that provides Remote ID functionality for public safety. The YR1 marks a step in the evolution of remote ID and airspace awareness, and we are excited to make it available to a broader audience.”
With its advanced capabilities and ease of integration, the YR1 could become an essential tool in enhancing airspace security, especially as the use of drones continues to expand across various sectors. By providing real-time, reliable remote ID data, Pierce Aerospace seeks to create a safer, more secure airspace environment for both public and private entities.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/pierce-aerospace-launches-remote-id-sensor/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
24 Sep 24. Fuzing Technology is Key to Defeating Drones. L3Harris has decades of engineering expertise and manufacturing experience delivering mission critical munitions safety components to the warfighter. The company is expanding that heritage with a new contract for more than 4,000 fuzes to support customers’ counter-UAS (C-UAS) missions. L3Harris supports Department of Defense customers and foreign military sales.
Fuzing Technology Key to Defeating Drones.
Hitting a target requires precision to ensure a threat is neutralized. The L3Harris fuze turns the Hydra 70 rocket with APKWS guidance kit into a low-cost proven C-UAS effector. The fuze is platform agnostic allowing the rocket to be launched from any Hydra 70 launcher, including integration with the L3Harris VAMPIRE. “Combat units count on our highly reliable, accurate and safe fuzes to get the job done,” said Quinlan Lyte, Vice President and General Manager, Defense Electronics.
L3Harris novel fuzing solutions transform conventional munitions into smart weapons, improving lethality, increasing accuracy, and minimizing collateral damage. Fewer rounds are required to achieve an objective, resulting in an overall cost-effective solution essential for the C-UAS mission. In addition to the Hydra 70 proximity fuze that is currently being fielded, L3Harris is also developing an enhanced version of the fuze, which includes additional modes and safety features.
Fuzing Heritage
For more than 60 years, L3Harris has designed, qualified and manufactured millions of fuzing, ignition safety and other devices for all types of platforms, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, penetrators, artillery and mortar projectiles, UAVs, rocket motors, guided projectiles, 2.75″ rockets, 5-inch gun projectiles and general-purpose bombs.
Advance Precision Kill Weapon System
The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS®) is a combat-proven system designed and manufactured by BAE Systems. L3Harris provides the fuze that transforms platforms into low-cost counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) solutions with proven success in U.S. Army testing.
VAMPIRE
Proximity fuzes are used to engage fast-moving targets like drones, aircraft or missiles. L3Harris’ Vehicle-Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment (VAMPIRE™), equipped with the WESCAM MX™-10D RSTA sensor system, uses proximity fuzes in order to significantly increase the probability of hitting the target.
The VAMPIRE is used in Ukraine and allows ground forces to target and shoot down enemy drones and defend against adversary ground threats.
As UAS technology continues to advance, capabilities and technologies to counter the effects of drones are becoming increasingly important. The precision, adaptability and cost-effectiveness of L3Harris’ proximity fuzes make them a critical component of VAMPIRE and other C-UAS weapon systems. (Source: ASD Network)
24 Sep 24. Epirus to Deliver Leonidas Expeditionary in Partnership with ONR, JCO & USMC, Expanding High-Power Microwave Product Suite.
- New HPM system under development with Office of Naval Research, Joint Counter-Small UAS Office and U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Lab to support Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations and counter-unmanned systems missions.
Epirus announced today the introduction of Leonidas Expeditionary, developed as part of a $5.5m contract award from the U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Research (ONR).
The HPM system, with the program name: Expeditionary Directed Energy Counter-Swarm, or ExDECS, is being developed by ONR, Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL) and the Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO).
The program’s future will involve initial integration with the U.S. Marine Corps’ Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S), along with field experimentation and multi-platform testing in expeditionary scenarios to enhance USMC’s Ground Based Air Defense Capabilities.
Epirus developed ExDECS, a solid-state, software-defined, long-pulse HPM system to support U.S. Marine Corps Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) and counter-unmanned systems missions. The system is designed to be compact and easily maneuverable, making ExDECS operationally relevant to any expeditionary force mission set.
“With drone warfare dominating daily headlines, we are proud to bring ExDECS to life and work with the Marine Corps to develop an expeditionary HPM capability,” said Andy Lowery, Chief Executive Officer, Epirus. “We are committed to accelerating the delivery of operational HPM capabilities for cUAS across the joint force.”
Leonidas Expeditionary, or ExDECS, is the latest derivative of the Leonidas HPM product suite and utilizes Epirus’ revolutionary approach to HPM, dramatically reducing the size and weight of the system and enabling greater operator control. The modular and scalable system is designed to fit on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) trailer and compliment Low Altitude Air Defense in expeditionary operations.
As part of the contract, Epirus will deliver a completed ExDECS HPM system to the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab by the end of 2024.
(Source: ASD Network)
20 Sept. 24. E-7 Wedgetail facility opened ahead of arrival of three aircraft. The new facility was built by Boeing supplier McLaughlin & Harvey, with more than 175 people at the project’s peak over a period of 18 months.
The UK Royal Air Force has officially opened a new maintenance facility to house its newly acquired E-7 Wedgetail fleet according to an update from 19 September 2024.
Located at RAF Lossiemouth, North Eastern Scotland, the new structure sits alongside the Atlantic Building, from which the UK’s fleet of nine Poseidon MRA Mk1 aircraft already operate.
The new facility was built by Boeing supplier, McLaughlin & Harvey, with more than 175 people employed on site at the project’s peak over a period of 18 months.
The building was officially opened in a ceremony at Lossiemouth by RAF programme lead Air Commodore Alex Hicks in the presence of Boeing Defence UK fixed wing director Ashley Parkes, McLaughlin & Harvey’s managing director Paul Griffen, and Stephen Horrocks (pictured with Air Cdre Hicks), head of multi-mission aircraft and Lossiemouth programme lead Laura McNally both of Defence Equipment and Support.
E-7 Wedgetail procurement
The platform is a successor to the E-3D Sentry and it will provide a fifth-generation airborne early wanring and control (AEW&C) capability, with a multi-role electronically scanned array that is interoperable and interchangeable with key allies.
Wedgetail is capable of generating a 360-degree view of the airspace and as a force multiplier, it will provide advanced warnign of approaching threats to enable commanders to fight effectively in complex environments.
Collocating engineering teams
Known as the Combined Line Engineering facility, the building will bring together engineering teams for the Poseidon and Wedgetail.
“It is a real privilege to open the Combined Line Engineering facility for the joint use of Poseidon and Wedgetail engineering teams,” said Air Cdre Alex Hicks, Head of Capability Delivery for ISR. “Collocating the teams will bring significant advantage to Defence as they operate, train and learn from each other to drive synergies into the maintenance of the two capabilities.
“Thank you to all of the stakeholders that have worked hard to deliver such an excellent capability to the Front Line, your efforts will provide benefit for years to come.” (Source: airforce-technology.com)
23 Sept. Argentina enriches naval surveillance with acquisition of P-3 Orion. The United States and Norway have both assisted in facilitating the acquisition.
Amid efforts to enhance defence capabilities, the Argentine Navy has received the first of four aircraft. Source: Argentina.gob.ar
In a step towards modernising its defence forces, the Argentine Navy has officially received its first Lockheed Martin P-3 Orion aircraft from Norway.
The acquisition is part of a strategy to enhance maritime surveillance in the nation’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Minister of Defence Luis Petri officiated the ceremony, emphasising the aircraft’s role in revitalising the Navy’s aviation capabilities. “This aircraft represents a great technological leap that puts our capabilities on par with those of the rest of the region and also represents a great opportunity for the transfer of capabilities,” he stated.
The delivery of the P-3 Orion is part of the National Public Investment Project aimed at improving the capabilities of the Naval Aviation Command. The project includes three P-3C aircraft and one P-3N mobile logistics support aircraft, all of which will undergo an ASLEP (Aircraft Service Life Extension Program). This ensures a lifespan of approximately 17,000 flight hours, projected to last at least 15 years.
With a wingspan of 30.38 metres and a range of 1,500 nautical miles, the P-3 Orion is designed for various missions, including anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue (SAR), and humanitarian aid. Its capabilities—featuring infrared cameras, sensors, and real-time data processing—enhance the Navy’s ability to monitor vast maritime areas.
The United States and Norway have both assisted in facilitating the acquisition. This partnership enhances the Argentine Navy’s operational readiness and lays the groundwork for future technological transfers and collaboration.
The introduction of the P-3 Orion aircraft is poised to improve the Argentine Navy’s capabilities in patrolling the coastline and extending operations into challenging environments like Antarctica. The aircraft allows extended search operations beyond the horizon, increasing detection probabilities while reducing exploration time.
Argentina is making strides in modernising its air and naval forces through acquisitions and upgrades. The Argentine Air Force recently purchased a Basler BT-67 utility aircraft under a $143m Foreign Military Sales (FMS) deal with the US, alongside 24 second-hand Danish F-16s for $300m. (Source: naval-technology.com)
23 Sept. 24. Ukraine Joins NATO Drill to Test Anti-Drone Systems.
NATO concluded a major anti-drone exercise this week, with Ukraine taking part for the first time as the Western alliance seeks to learn urgently from the rapid development and widespread use of unmanned systems in the war there.
The drills at a Dutch military base, involving more than 20 countries and some 50 companies, tested cutting-edge systems to detect and counter drones and assessed how they work together.
The 11-day exercise ended with a demonstration of jamming and hacking drones in a week when their critical role in the Ukraine war was demonstrated once again.
On Wednesday, a large Ukrainian drone attack triggered an earthquake-sized blast at a major Russian arsenal. The following day, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow was ramping up drone production tenfold to nearly 1.4 m this year.
The proliferation of drones in the war – to destroy targets and survey the battlefield – has prompted NATO to increase its focus on the threat they could pose to the alliance.
“NATO takes this threat very, very seriously,”
said Matt Roper, chief of the Joint Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Centre at the alliance’s technology agency.
“This is not a domain we can afford to sit back and be passive on,”
he said at the exercise site, Lieutenant General Best Barracks in the east of The Netherlands.
Experts have warned NATO that it needs to catch up quickly on drone warfare.
“NATO has too few drones for a high-intensity fight against a peer adversary,”
a report from the Center for European Policy Analysis think tank declared last September.
“It would be severely challenged to effectively integrate those it has in a contested environment.”
THREAT EVOLUTION
The drills that wrapped up on Thursday – complete with ice cream for onlookers provided by a radar company – were the fourth annual iteration of the exercise.
Claudio Palestini, the co-chair of a NATO working group on unmanned systems, said the exercise had adapted to trends such as the transformation of FPV (first-person view) drones – originally designed for civilian racers – into deadly weapons.
“Every year, we see an evolution of the threat with the introduction of new technology,” he said. “But also we see a lot of capabilities (to counter drones) that are becoming more mature.”
In a demonstration on Thursday, two small FPV drones whizzed and whined at high speed through the blue sky to dart around a military all-terrain vehicle before their signal was jammed.
Such electronic warfare is widespread in Ukraine. But it is less effective against long-range reconnaissance drones, a technology developer at Ukraine’s defence ministry said.
The official, giving only his first name of Yaroslav for security reasons, said his team had developed kamikaze drones to destroy such craft – a much cheaper option than firing missiles, which Ukraine had previously done.
“You need to run fast,” he said of the race to counter the impact of drones. “Technology which you develop is there for three months, maybe six months. After, it’s obsolete.” (Source: UAS VISION/Reuters)
23 Sept 24. C-UAS Hub said today Skyfire and Echelon join forces to advance AI for UAS. Public safety and Department of Defense (DoD) drone programme implementation specialist, Skyfire Consulting, has announced that it will merge with Echelon AI, a provider of AI for autonomous and swarming drone technology. Together, they will form SkyfireAI, which aims to revolutionise the future of drone operations for public safety and defence. Skyfire’s founders and core team have backgrounds in law enforcement, military service, the CIA, DARPA, firefighting and EMS-first response as well as military and civil aviation.
By combining Skyfire’s expertise in implementing drones for law enforcement and military applications with Echelon’s advancements in artificial intelligence, the new entity plans to deliver more efficient, autonomous solutions for a range of mission-critical scenarios. This includes drone-first responder (DFR) programs, intelligent border and perimeter protection and enhanced situational awareness during complex operations.
SkyfireAI will work to progress the capabilities of UAS, advancing the drone industry by integrating AI-driven solutions alongside existing drone technologies. The company’s mission control platform will enable real-time adaptability for drones, making them more responsive to changing environments and mission requirements.
As drone hardware becomes more standardised, SkyfireAI’s software will differentiate itself by enabling autonomy and dynamic mission success. Their AI technology will allow drones to respond to evolving hardware states and unpredictable circumstances on the ground, improving operational safety and efficiency.
This merger comes at a time when drone technology is increasingly being used in both defence and public safety sectors. SkyfireAI will build on Skyfire’s track record of supporting agencies by not only providing hardware and regulatory support but also integrating sophisticated AI into these systems. The new platform promises to enhance response times and decision-making capabilities by leveraging AI for swarming operations and multi-ship formations.
By merging their strengths, SkyfireAI seeks to push the boundaries of drone technology, with a particular focus on autonomy and AI innovations that will drive the next generation of UAS for public safety, defence and emergency services. (Source: C-UAS Hub)
23 Sep 24. Advanced Protection Systems (APS), a Polish leader in counter-drone technology whose products are helping protect Ukraine’s skies, has unveiled an interceptor drone that autonomously tracks and knocks down unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) through direct collision, a powerful and cost-effective solution to the threat.
The new interceptor is part of APS’s SKYctrl anti-drone system, which integrates FIELDctrl radars, various neutralization tools (effectors) and CyView C2 command and control software. Using machine learning algorithms, the system can differentiate between drones and objects such as birds, while providing real-time threat detection and reporting.
SKYctrl has proven its effectiveness on the battlefield during the war in Ukraine, helping counter the threat from the Russian army’s drones. Elements of the system are deployed worldwide by military forces and operators of critical infrastructure sites, including power plants, refineries and telecommunications networks.
“The widespread use of combat drones in the Ukraine war inspired us to create innovative solutions like the interceptor drone,” said Maciej Klemm, co-founder and CEO of APS. “The interceptors use machine learning to work with a high level of autonomy, relieving the burden on human operators.”
The interceptor drones are guided by radar systems combined with advanced video tracking technology. They can work in groups, communicating with each other to assign targets and neutralize drone swarms. Unlike conventional weapons, the interceptor drone carries no explosives, making it a versatile solution for both military and civilian applications.
“The interceptor drone adds a cost-effective option to our suite of neutralization tools,” said Radosław Piesiewicz, co-founder and vice president of APS. “This technology offers our partners an efficient solution for defending their territories and critical infrastructure.”
The complete SKYctrl systems use a variety of effectors, including radio frequency jammers, small-caliber cannon and now the interceptor drone. APS’s flexible architecture allows integration with other tools, such as machine guns and laser weapons, to meet a range of defense needs.
Beyond military applications, the interceptor drone offers a non-explosive alternative to jammers for protecting civilian airspace, including airports, from invasive drones. This technology is expected to be highly effective in ensuring public safety without disrupting other electronic systems.
APS presented its interceptor drone for the first time at the MSPO defense industry trade show in Kielce, Poland, Sept. 3-6.
23 Sept 24. C-UAS Hub said today that Austrian Armed Forces deploy AARTOS for airshow defence. At the Airpower24 airshow, the Austrian Armed Forces and AARONIA Austria deployed a collaborative effort, and the AARTOS system, to safeguard against illegal drone activity or hostile drone threats. Held in early September in Zeltweg, Austria, the event featured 206 aircraft from over 20 countries. AARONIA’s AARTOS DDS system, an advanced anti-drone solution that the Austrian military has used since 2018, played a key role in ensuring safety throughout the airshow. The event involved aerobatic teams such as the Flying Bulls and the Austrian Armed Forces’ Eurofighters.
The AARTOS system, a key part of the Austrian Armed Forces’ “Electronic Warfare for Drone Defense” (ELDRO) strategy, was enhanced this year with a fully automatic 28-meter mast system, equipped with a high-performance RF sensor. This allowed the system to monitor the entire frequency spectrum and provide 360° coverage of the airspace.
A key feature of AARTOS is its ability to detect and locate illegal drones and their operators in real time. With its precision, the system can track drone positions, flight paths and operator locations with an accuracy of five meters, allowing military police to swiftly locate unauthorised operators.
What made this year’s deployment of the AARTOS system particularly effective was its modular design, which allowed for seamless integration of radar, cameras and sensors. This improved the system’s ability to cover complex topographical conditions in real time and simplify operational management, a critical factor for a large-scale event like Airpower24.
The robust anti-drone defences not only intercepted several unauthorised drones the night before the event but also prevented any incidents during the show itself. AARONIA’s mobile solution has already proven its reliability at other high-profile events, such as Formula 1 and MotoGP, and has demonstrated its effectiveness in maintaining security and preventing unauthorised drone activity at large events. (Source: C-UAS Hub)
24 Sept. 24. Rheinmetall Unveils Skyranger 35 Mobile Air Defense System on Leopard 1 Chassis. On September 18th, 2024, at the Ochsenboden Testing Centre in Studen, Switzerland, Rheinmetall unveiled its Skyranger 35 anti-aircraft system mounted on the Leopard 1 tank chassis. This high-profile event, titled the Skyranger System Demonstration 2024, gathered defense officials, military personnel, and industry leaders from 26 countries, offering an exclusive first look at Rheinmetall’s latest innovation in mobile air defense.
This demonstration marked the debut of the Skyranger 35 system on the Leopard 1 platform, which follows the system’s earlier appearance on the Leopard 2 chassis at the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition in Paris. With this unveiling, Rheinmetall has positioned the Skyranger 35 as a cutting-edge solution for short-range air defense (SHORAD), specifically designed to meet modern and future battlefield challenges. The event demonstrated Rheinmetall’s commitment to providing military forces with a highly versatile, powerful, and adaptive mobile air defense system.
The Skyranger 35 represents a significant leap forward in Rheinmetall’s air defense technology, designed as a modern alternative to older systems like the Flakpanzer Gepard, which was first introduced in 1976. While the Gepard has seen renewed use in recent conflicts, particularly by Ukraine in its defense against Russian missile and drone attacks, it lacks the advanced technological capabilities offered by the Skyranger 35.The Skyranger 35 system is built around Rheinmetall’s renowned 35 mm Oerlikon revolver cannon. Capable of firing 1,000 rounds per minute, this rapid-fire cannon is optimized for Rheinmetall’s Advanced Hit Efficiency And Destruction (AHEAD) ammunition—a sophisticated airburst round that releases a cloud of sub-projectiles just ahead of its target. This makes the Skyranger 35 highly effective against a range of modern threats, including low, slow, and small (LSS) aerial targets like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), as well as performing Counter-Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (C-RAM) duties.
The Skyranger 35 is equipped with an advanced sensor suite, capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously. This includes the Oerlikon AMMR (Active Multi-Mode Radar) system, which employs four air-cooled AESA antennas providing 360° surveillance. The radar system operates in the S-band and is capable of detecting even the smallest of aerial targets, such as drones, which have become an increasingly prominent threat on the battlefield. On the turret’s roof sits a tracking head that includes a Ku-band radar, thermal imaging cameras, television sensors, and dual laser rangefinders—one optimized for ground targets and the other for air targets—ensuring the system can engage with both precision and accuracy.
The version of the Skyranger 35 demonstrated in Switzerland was mounted on the Leopard 1A5BE chassis, highlighting the system’s adaptability. The Leopard 1’s chassis has been modified to accommodate the Skyranger turret by welding a pedestal with a support ring to the upper plate, allowing it to securely hold the turret. The turret itself was borrowed from the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 transportable/self-propelled gun, a design tailored specifically for mobile platforms. This version features a lower profile than previous iterations, designed to reduce the vehicle’s height while maintaining full functionality.
The Skyranger 35 turret weighs 4.25 tons when fully loaded, yet despite its size, it is entirely unmanned and controlled remotely by two operators inside the vehicle. Its rotation capabilities allow for a 360° field of fire, while the cannon can elevate up to 85°, making it effective against high-flying aerial threats as well as ground targets. The system’s ammunition feeding system is beltless, contributing to the turret’s efficiency. The magazine, which holds 252 rounds of 35×228 mm ammunition, is located at the rear of the turret. One of the most notable aspects of the Skyranger 35 is its modularity.
Rheinmetall has ensured that the system is not restricted to the Leopard 1 chassis; it can also be mounted on other tracked or wheeled vehicles, such as armored personnel carriers (APCs) and infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs).In an era where asymmetric warfare and drone technology have dramatically reshaped the battlefield, air defense systems like the Skyranger 35 have become critical assets. The system’s ability to fire programmable AHEAD ammunition offers a key advantage in neutralizing UAVs, which have become a staple of modern warfare. The AHEAD rounds, designed to release sub-projectiles just before impact, allow for precision engagement of small, fast-moving aerial targets that conventional rounds would struggle to hit.
Moreover, the Skyranger 35’s radar and sensor capabilities are finely tuned to detect even the smallest of drones, which pose a unique challenge to traditional air defense systems. The Oerlikon AMMR radar system’s ability to provide constant 360° surveillance ensures no target goes undetected, while the Ku-band radar and EO/IR cameras offer precise tracking, even in adverse weather conditions or at night. The system’s dual laser rangefinders further enhance its targeting accuracy, allowing it to engage both ground and aerial threats with a high degree of precision. (Source: UAS VISION/Military Leak)
20 Sept. 24. Germany to install missile defence systems on new government jets, Spiegel reports. Germany is to install missile defense systems on three new government jets that are used by senior leaders, the Spiegel news outlet reported on Friday.
The German defence ministry is to submit a corresponding contract to the parliamentary budget committee budget for approval by the end of the year, said the report, which did not give details of its source.
The three A350 jets, which are mainly used by President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, will be equipped with an infrared system on the fuselage that can disable the seeker heads of approaching missiles with laser pulses, Spiegel reported.
The last of the three planes was handed over to the German military in June.
The defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment or to a question on how other government jets are protected from possible missile attacks.
The high-tech system set to be installed in the A350s is developed by the Israeli company Elbit (ESLT.TA) in cooperation with German aircraft parts supplier Diehl, Spiegel said. Many military transport aircraft are already equipped with it. (Source: Google/Reuters)
20 Sept. 24. Boeing [NYSE: BA] has completed the first flight of the UK’s E-7 Wedgetail for the Royal Air Force (RAF). Currently unpainted, the aircraft is one of three 737 NG aircraft on British soil undergoing modification by a highly skilled team of over 100 people at STS Aviation Services in Birmingham.
“This safe and systematic Functional Check Flight is an important step for Boeing and the RAF as part of our rigorous and extensive testing and evaluation,” said Stu Voboril, Boeing vice president and E-7 program manager. “Our team is committed to ensuring the E-7 delivers the safety, quality, and capabilities we’ve promised to our customer as we prepare for delivery of the UK’s first E-7 Wedgetail to the RAF.”
Group Captain Richard Osselton, RAF Programme Director for Wedgetail said, “Achieving the first flight of Wedgetail is a significant milestone, representing an outstanding effort from the RAF programme team, DE&S, Boeing and STS Aviation. We will now build on this success and look forward to continuing the Test & Evaluation phase as part of our preparations for the aircraft to enter into service.”
DE&S Director Air Support, Richard Murray, said, “This first flight marks a significant milestone for the programme and for our team who have worked tirelessly with our partners to progress what is a hugely complex endeavour. We are moving forward and will be delivering this critical capability to the RAF.”
The combat-proven E-7 detects and identifies adversarial targets at long range and tracks multiple airborne and maritime threats simultaneously with 360-degree coverage via the Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) sensor. It provides the warfighter with critical multi-domain awareness and command-and-control decision advantage.
“We’re proud of the robust E-7 modification line we’ve stood up in the UK to deliver the RAF’s future Airborne Early Warning & Control fleet,” said Maria Laine, president of Boeing UK, Ireland and the Nordics. “We are committed to delivering this crucial capability to support the UK’s national security and contribute toward regional stability.”
The future UK E-7 fleet will operate from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, where Boeing’s local suppliers and contractors are nearing completion of the infrastructure facilities to support its introduction into service.
The RAF participates in a tri-lateral agreement with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and U.S. Air Force (USAF) toward cooperative Wedgetail interoperability, capability development, evaluation and testing, sustainment, operations, training, and safety.
The RAAF, the Republic of Korea Air Force, and the Turkish Air Force currently operate the E-7. Boeing is also building two rapid prototype E-7 aircraft for USAF and in 2023, NATO announced the selection of the E-7 for its AEW&C mission. The growing global E-7 fleet provides mission systems interoperability, mission readiness and lifecycle cost advantages, as well as a common technical growth path to stay ahead of global threats.
Later this autumn, following a series of flight tests and further evaluation, the aircraft will depart to a paint facility to receive its RAF livery.
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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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