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15 Nov 24. Russian Supercam Drone Offered to Central Asia. The Russian unmanned aerial vehicle Supercam S350, developed and manufactured by the Unmanned Systems Group, was presented during the Securex Uzbekistan 2024 expo, held in Tashkent from November 5 to 7.
The company is offering the combat-tested drone for a wide of missions.
Supercam unmanned aerial vehicle systems can be useful for Uzbekistan to protect state borders, maintain law and order, search for people, as well as in agriculture, the fuel and energy sector and in the mining industry. Unmanned Systems Group has previously supplied its products to Uzbekistan for topographic surveys. Supercam S350 combines new technologies and costs less than Israeli or American unmanned aerial systems, the manufacturer said.
The company noted that the drone is perfectly suited for flights in extreme temperatures, in mountainous terrain, and in the absence of a GPS signal. It is equipped with modern video cameras. Optics and stabilization enable high-altitude reconnaissance while remaining undetected. The payload – a video camera and an HD thermal imager — help detect a person from a height of 1,200 m.
Leading Russian expert in the field of unmanned aerial systems Denis Fedutinov, in a conversation with RIA Novosti, drew attention to the fact that Uzbekistan has many promising areas for the use of drones.
“In addition to re-equipping its armed forces with modern weapons and military equipment, Uzbekistan pays special attention to protecting the long line of the state border, the monitoring of which must be ensured, including from the point of view of controlling drug trafficking and smuggling,” the expert said.
During the exhibition, the Unmanned Systems Group announced that it had introduced on Supercam drones a new airborne laser scanning system. The system is already being used at fields in the Yamal region of Russia.
The Unmanned Systems Group notes that the Supercam350 has proven itself in real combat operations, performing reconnaissance, targeting, and artillery fire adjustment tasks.
Unmanned Systems Group has been a designer and manufacturer of Supercam unmanned aircraft systems and one of the major players in the Russian UAV market since 2010, says the company’s website. (Source: UAS VISION/Arabian Defence)
13 Nov 24. Lockheed Martin has successfully integrated the Q-53 multi-mission radar (MMR) with Anduril’s Lattice Command and Control (C2) environment during the U.S. Central Command Desert Guardian exercise held at Fort Drum earlier this month. Desert Guardian is part of a set of exercises aimed at filling key gaps in its ability to detect and track drone threats.
“The successful integration of the Q-53 MMR and Lattice showcases Lockheed Martin’s valued partnership with the U.S. Government and industry partners, allowing us to deliver tailored solutions for our customers,” said David Kenneweg, director of Multi-mission Air Defense Radars at Lockheed Martin. “At Desert Guardian, we were able to collaborate to uncover customer needs as we continue to innovate the technology needed to detect and counter emerging threats to make smarter, faster decisions.”
During Desert Guardian, Lockheed Martin’s Q-53 MMR rapidly integrated into the Lattice C2 Network and pushed data to Lattice to integrate and create a common air picture. This integration demonstrated the capability to significantly enhance the overall operational picture, enabling more informed and timely decision-making in a netted environment.
“We are adapting to our customers’ mission and developing capabilities that will benefit operators; we will continue to work with the Department of Defense in addressing and solving for joint urgent operational needs,” said Kenneweg.
Lockheed Martin is building on the successes of Desert Guardian and preparing for a second exercise, coordinated by CENTCOM, to take place at a base in the Middle East. The company’s multi-domain expertise will help their customer integrate sensors into a single interface used by operators in the field.
13 Nov 24. L3Harris Opens Service Center in Italy for WESCAM MX-Series EO/IR Systems. L3Harris’ new WASC in Italy will provide product support and services to Italian and European end-users. L3Harris Technologies opened its new WESCAM Authorized Service Center (WASC) in Bologna, Italy, to provide product support and services to the Italian end-users and customers in the surrounding regions. The WASC builds upon L3Harris’ investments into its growing customer-care ecosystem and its commitment to provide localized, self-reliant defense capabilities among its customers. It will also generate increased economic return to the region, employing and training local teams of EO/IR system experts and technicians. Part of a new 5,500-square meter L3Harris manufacturing and support center, the regional WASC serves to improve end-user operational availability and provide advanced repair capability for its WESCAM MX™-Series electro-optical/infrared sensor systems. To accelerate mission-readiness, the new WASC is equipped with state-of-the-art WESCAM MX-Series service equipment, testing capabilities and technician support systems.
“The opening of our new Italy WESCAM Authorized Service Center is a monumental step forward to expanding our service and support throughout Italy and surrounding NATO allies,” said Tom Kirkland, Vice President & General Manager, Targeting and Sensor Systems, L3Harris. “L3Harris continues to demonstrate its commitment to localization and providing customized solutions for our customers’ unique challenges.”
The WESCAM MX-Series of multi-sensor, multi-spectral, EO/IR surveillance imaging systems are field-proven, supporting intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and target acquisition missions from platforms across multiple domains. L3Harris designed its EO/IR systems to keep operators focused on their mission without concern for operability or reliability. Enhancing in-country support, manufacturing and service at WESCAM Authorized Service Centers across the globe enables local experts and technicians to perform the production, repair and maintenance of WESCAM MX-Series systems. L3Harris has delivered over 7,000 WESCAM MX-Series systems worldwide, and over 1,400 to European countries. WESCAM MX-Series systems are deployed on over 260 different types of platforms in more than 86 countries. (Source: ASD Network)
13 Nov 24. US develops directed energy capabilities. The US Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) gave an update on its development of directed energy (DE) capabilities at SAE Media Group’s Future Armoured Vehicles Survivability (FAVS) 2024 conference being held in London from 11 to 13 November. Colonel Steven Gutierrez, RCCTO project manager for DE Maneuver-Short Range Air Defence (M-SHORAD), told the conference audience on the first day of FAVS 2024 that his organisation was perfecting DE with the aim of staying ahead of potential adversaries.
Supporting the Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO) are 10–20 kW Palletized-High Energy Laser (P-HEL) systems designed to provide force protection against Class 1–2 unmanned aircraft systems (UASs). Manoeuvre/mobile air-defence projects include the 20 kW Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL), designed to provide protection against Class 1–2 UAS threats, and the 50 kW DE M-SHORAD countering Class 1–3 UASs, helicopters, and rockets, artillery, and mortars (RAMs). Fixed- and semi-fixed-site protection projects include Indirect Fire Protection Capability-High Energy Laser (IFPC-HEL) to counter threats from Class 1–3 UASs, cruise missiles, RAMs, and fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft and the Indirect Fire Protection Capability-High Power Microwave (IFPC-HPM) system to counter Class 1–2 UAS threats and swarms. (Source: Janes)
12 Nov 24. Raytheon Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor Excels at Latest, Most Complex Live Fire Test. Advanced, 360-degree radar demonstrates exceptional performance.
Raytheon, an RTX business, today announced that its Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor, or LTAMDS, successfully completed its most complex live-fire exercise to date, detecting and defeating a tactical ballistic missile. Achieving all objectives, the milestone is the latest in a rigorous U.S. Army test program, advancing towards fielding the 360-degree, full sector capability this year.
This was the fifth of a series of exercises, increasing in complexity, to effectively demonstrate the radar’s performance and integration with the Integrated Battle Command System, or IBCS. A tactical ballistic missile surrogate was launched, flying at high speed and at a long range, representing a current and relevant threat. LTAMDS acquired and tracked the target, passed track data to IBCS, and LTAMDS guided a PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missile to intercept.
“The progression of the LTAMDS program has been remarkable – from a sense-off and contract award in 2019, successful testing in 2023, to the program’s planned entry into production early in 2025 – that is unprecedented for a new development program,” said Tom Laliberty, president of Land and Air Defense Systems at Raytheon. “It is a testament to a strong government-industry partnership that, together with the Army, we have designed and developed the most advanced air and missile defense radar, capable of defeating the complex threats of today and tomorrow.”
The LTAMDS program has been executing to an aggressive schedule, with the first six prototype units rotating through simultaneous testing and integration at multiple Raytheon and Army test sites. Tests have increased in complexity to stress the radar and prove its capabilities against real and representative threat sets. Throughout, LTAMDS has met complex test objectives and showcased the performance of this transformational radar. While rigorous testing continues in 2024, the program is expected to achieve Milestone C, the official transition from development to production, in second quarter of FY2025.
International interest in LTAMDS is strong, with more than a dozen countries requesting information and receiving briefings. In October 2023, the Polish Minister of Defense signed a letter of acceptance with the U.S. Army for 12 radars. With this Foreign Military Sale, Poland will be the first international customer to add the advanced 360-degree LTAMDS radar to their air and missile defense architecture. (Source: ASD Network)
12 Nov 24. Teledyne FLIR Defense Awarded $168m IDIQ Contract for US Army’s NBCRV Program. As lead integrator will continue work on multi-sensor detection system for manned and unmanned platforms designed to safeguard troops from CBRN threats. Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), announced it has been awarded a five-year, $168.3 m Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract by the U.S. Army for low-rate initial production to upgrade the M1135 Stryker’s Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicle (NBCRV) Sensor Suite. The company also received its first delivery order, valued at $7.5 m.
Teledyne FLIR is the lead integrator in modernizing the Army’s NBCRV system with improved and autonomous chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) sensors. The company had earlier delivered initial Sensor Suite upgrade prototypes for government testing. Successful test results led to it being awarded this production contract.
Among other third-party solutions, the NBCRV Sensor Suite will feature capabilities of the FLIR Defense R80D SkyRaider™ drone integrated with FLIR’s MUVE™ B330 biological detection payload designed for small unmanned aerial systems. Also, a FLIR-developed command and control system integrates all devices and platforms with sensor fusion and automation features that lessen the cognitive burden on users and improve decision-making.
“The advanced sensor capabilities on NBCRV will help protect our troops from weapons of mass destruction and enhance mission success on future battlefields,” said Dr. JihFen Lei, president of Teledyne FLIR Defense. “We’re honored to continue our work with the Army, leveraging our UAS platforms and remote sensing solutions to deliver the NBCRV Sensor Suite.”
Work on the NBCRV program is expected to continue through 2029 at company facilities in Stillwater, Okla.; Elkridge, Md; and Tucson, Ariz. (Source: ASD Network)
12 Nov 24. Japan’s 10kW High-Power Laser Weapon Truck Enters Service with Japanese Army. During the 70th Anniversary Review Ceremony of the South Korean Ministry of Defense and Self-Defense Forces on November 9, 2024, Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) presented a groundbreaking piece of technology—the 10kW-class high-power laser electronic warfare (EW) combat truck.
Developed by Japan’s Defense Acquisition Agency, this state-of-the-art laser system marks a significant advancement in Japan’s directed-energy weapon (DEW) capabilities, which are increasingly critical in countering modern threats on the battlefield.
The 10kW-class high-power laser EW vehicle is a formidable innovation designed to counter aerial and missile threats, including hostile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and low-altitude missile systems. Japan’s Defense Acquisition Agency, a key institution within the Ministry of Defense that spearheads defense technology development, has pushed the boundaries in both electromagnetic and laser-based technologies. This system is part of Japan’s broader defense modernization effort, aiming to bolster capabilities that traditional missile-defense systems struggle to address effectively, especially against the backdrop of rapidly advancing drone warfare and complex aerial threats.
Equipped with a high-power laser system mounted on an 8×8 truck chassis, the vehicle offers both flexibility and rapid deployment potential across diverse terrains. The laser’s 10kW output enables it to neutralize targets within short to medium range, targeting and disrupting the electronic or physical components of drones and missiles. By integrating this capability into a mobile electronic warfare vehicle, Japan gains a tactical advantage with a reusable, high-precision tool that minimizes collateral damage and costs associated with traditional munitions. The JGSDF’s system development underscores the country’s shift towards innovative, cost-effective, and adaptive defense solutions to meet evolving battlefield demands.
This unveiling of Japan’s high-power laser EW vehicle signals a significant commitment to enhancing national and regional security amid increasing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. Given the regional escalation in drone and missile capabilities, Japan’s advancement in directed-energy weapons provides a strategic countermeasure that could support allied forces in the region, contributing to stability and defense. As the need for advanced counter-drone and anti-missile systems grows, Japan’s latest development in directed-energy technology could prompt future collaborations with partner nations seeking similar defensive capabilities.
During South Korea’s defense review, Japan’s display of the 10kW-class high-power laser EW vehicle reflects a promising leap forward in the nation’s defense objectives. Combining mobility, precision, and adaptability, this new technology enhances Japan’s strategic readiness and positions it as a leader in directed energy and electronic warfare, essential in maintaining security across the Asia-Pacific region. This achievement highlights Japan’s proactive approach to defense innovation, strengthening its role as a formidable force in countering emerging security threats. (Source: UAS VISION/Army Recognition)
12 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that the Brazilian Navy signs MoU for anti-drone technology. UAE-based defence technology group EDGE has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Brazilian Navy. This collaboration aims to advance autonomous surface and aerial defence systems, laying a foundation for developing sophisticated anti-drone technologies specifically tailored for naval operations.
The agreement, signed by Admiral Edgar Luiz Siqueira Barbosa, Director General of Material for the Brazilian Navy, and EDGE Managing Director & CEO Hamad Al Marar, formalises a partnership that reflects a growing global focus on counter-drone technologies.
According to Admiral Siqueira Barbosa, the partnership will enhance both nations’ capabilities in a domain crucial for modern defence:
“EDGE Group has proven itself to be a valuable and reliable partner to the Brazilian Navy for the long-term, as demonstrated by our close collaboration on the MANSUP series of anti-ship systems,” he said. “This preliminary agreement to pursue the joint development and delivery of sophisticated counter-drone technologies and solutions will not only ensure that both parties benefit from the sharing of knowledge and innovation but will also enable us, as partners, to become leaders in the field, meeting sovereign needs and eventually those of other export markets in the face of modern naval and airborne threats.”
EDGE’s counter-drone systems combine technologies essential for maritime defence, integrating sensors such as radar and electro-optics with jamming capabilities to disrupt and neutralise unauthorised drones. The Brazilian Navy views these systems as increasingly important, given the rise in unmanned aerial vehicle threats to naval security worldwide.
Highlighting the global importance of counter-drone technology, EDGE CEO Hamad Al Marar commented: “Counter-drone technology is a vital solution required worldwide, addressing the increasing presence of unmanned vehicles in modern defence scenarios. These systems bring advanced capabilities in detecting, tracking, and neutralising evolving threats, and we are focused on furthering this development to deliver a truly cutting-edge system to market. EDGE has already made significant strides in this field and we remain committed to continuously driving innovation. The Brazilian Navy is a hugely important partner, and together we are shaping the future of these essential defence technologies.”
This MoU establishes a framework for a coordinated, multi-layered response to emerging drone threats, which will enable the Brazilian Navy to strengthen its defence against potential unmanned incursions across its fleet. Both EDGE and the Brazilian Navy anticipate that this collaboration will bolster strategic security, not only for domestic operations but potentially for international export markets.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/brazilian-navy-signs-mou-for-anti-drone-technology/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
12 Nov 24. Innov’ATM to provide U-space services for robot, drone airport security patrols. Innov’ATM reports it will be providing U-space and UTM services to the Projet France 2030 PanDrone programme, which will provide surveillance and security of airports with drones and robots conducting automated and regular patrols. As part of this project, Innov’ATM will be responsible for deploying its U-SpaceKeeper® U-space services in the airspace surrounding the airport to safely integrate drones and the AirportKeeper® ground traffic supervisor on the Bordeaux platform to safely integrate robots.
Consortium partners comprise: Bordeaux Airport, Icarus Swarms, Laboratoire Bordelais de Recherche en Informatique (LaBRI), Lynxdrone, ESTIA – École Supérieure des Technologies Industrielles Avancées, XLIM, ThinkDeep AI, optim.aize | AI, data, science & GIS, Azur Drones, Running Brains Robotics, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, CESA DRONES, Bordeaux Technowest.
The programme is part of the EUR54 bn France 2030 investment plan, “which aims to close the gap in French industrial development, invest heavily in innovative technologies, and support the ecological transition.”
For more information: https://www.innov-atm.com/the-france-2030-pandrone-project-granted-by-the-prime-minister-e6-5-m-allocated-for-an-integrated-solution-for-airport-surveillance-using-drones-and-robots/
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
12 Nov 24. NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) issues RFP for modular air defence programme. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has released the first Request for Proposal (RfP) related to the Modular Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) project.
“The objective is to explore potential system architectures and future solutions to implement the Key User Requirements,” says the agency. “The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) is executing the Modular GBAD Concept Stage on behalf of the participating Nations. The Agency, in cooperation with industry, will explore the matching of Nations’ requirements with state of the art technology to fulfil the challenges of interoperability between individual modules for both future and legacy GBAD systems.
“This Concept Study #1 is aimed at an initial identification of Modular GBAD architecture solutions. In order to promote innovation and maximize technical and operational value, Contractors will be selected based on “best value” criteria. Companies will be invited to submit their proposals before 10 January 2025.
“After a first evaluation aiming to select up to five compliant bids, the selected Contractors will be requested to produce a set of deliverables presenting in details their proposals of Modular GBAD system architectures. Subsequently, a second evaluation will take place in order to keep two Contractors in order to further define and specify their respective architectures and thus support the Modular GBAD Concept Stage via complementary Concept Studies and technical services.
“A Bidders’ Conference will be held on 25 November 2024 at NSPA Headquarters in Capellen (Luxembourg). The purpose of this Conference is to provide interested bidders with detailed information about the project, clarify any technical aspects of the scope, and answer questions to ensure that all participants have a thorough understanding of requirements and expectations.
For more information: https://www.nspa.nato.int/news/2024/nspa-releases-first-rfp-for-modular-groundbased-air-defence-gbad- (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
11 Nov 24. Ukraine to test Estonian counter drone missiles. Ukraine is set to receive air defence missiles from the Estonian company Frankenburg Technologies for testing. Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence says the first samples for trials will arrive within the coming months. The deal was discussed in Kyiv during a meeting between Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defense, Brigadier General Anatolii Klochko, and Frankenburg Technologies’ leadership. The missiles to be tested by Ukraine are designed primarily to counter drones and can target objects at altitudes of up to 2 km. Frankenburg Technologies’ CEO, Kusti Salm said that if the trials are successful and further use is agreed upon, production of the missiles could be established in Ukraine. Deputy Minister of Defense for Ukraine Anatolii Klochko spoke of the nation’s need to have a broad arsenal of missile weapons and urged foreign manufacturers to provide such systems to Ukraine and to test it in combat conditions. “We are open to collaboration and ready to utilise various models of modern weaponry,” said the Deputy Minister. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
09 Nov 24. US almost doubles contract ceiling for C-UAS to fund urgent requirement. A procurement action notice by the United States Department of Defense states that it is increasing the Counter Unmanned Systems (CUxS) Systems Integration Partner (SIP) contract ceiling on the current Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract from USD 967,599,957.09 to USD 1,917,599,957.09.
“The contract ceiling increase is required to fulfil immediate C-UxS capability expansion and support requirements anticipated from Ukraine and Israel, supplemental funding for USSOCOM, United States Army, United States Marine Corps (USMC) and other government agencies,” the notice reads.
In January 2022, January 2022, the USSOCOM (United States Special Operations Command) Directorate of Procurement awarded the SIP production contract to Anduril Industries, Inc. as a 10-year (IDIQ).
Based on the current high threat environment driving an increased force protection footprint for deployed special operations forces (SOF), USSOCOM says it is now facing “urgent procurement demands” in support of SOF and its partners.
“Due to the urgency of the pending requirements, USSOCOM has determined that, in accordance with FAR 6.302-1(a)(2)(ii), no other responsible source will satisfy agency requirements with the available technical data without incurring substantial duplication of cost that is not expected to be recovered through competition,” the procurement action notice states.
For more information: DoD procurement action notice on SAM.gov (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
11 Nov 24. Moldova reports Russian drones in its airspace as drone war intensifies. The Foreign Ministry of Moldova says two Russian ‘decoy drones’ crashed in Moldova on November 10. A statement from the Ministry said the incursion “endangered Moldovan lives and violated our airspace”.
“We firmly condemn these aggressive incursions and reiterate our condemnation of Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine,” the statement continued.
The Ministry said the two drones were found in two separate locations, far apart but each within 50 km of the border with Ukraine. Moldova also reported finding Russian drone fragments in its territory in April.
Moldova’s Pro-European President Maia Sandu was recently re-elected, worsening already strained relations with Moscow.
Latvia and Romania have also reported Russian drones in their airspace recently. Romania’s Defence Ministry published a draft law on October 28 which, if passed, would allow it to shoot down drones illegally breaching its national airspace. And in July, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Poland would take out drones over Ukrainian airspace before they strayed into Polish airspace, if NATO would support the action.
Meanwhile, multiple media reports indicate that Russia and Ukraine have carried out their largest drone attacks against each other to date this weekend, with Russia reporting that it had intercepted more than 80 drones, some close to Moscow which affected operations at the capital’s airports. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia had launched 145 drones with most “shot down”. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
12 Nov 24. Sensor specialist HENSOLDT has been awarded the contract to modernise the sensor technology of a total of 90 Fennek vehicles. As part of the project, 30 Fennek scout vehicles will be upgraded from the now obsolete BAA I observation and reconnaissance equipment to BAA III. In addition, 50 Fennek Joint Fire Support Team (JFST) vehicles will be upgraded from BAA II to BAA III. Ten additional BAA III sets will serve as a recirculating reserve during the upgrade and will subsequently be available as spare parts. Another two BAA III sets will be delivered to the customer KNDS Deutschland for integration and verification management. The order itself comprises 92 BAA III sets. The order value is in the mid double-digit million range. The integration work is scheduled to be completed in a short time frame to ensure that the Fennek is operationally ready for use by the Bundeswehr. Deliveries will begin as early as the first quarter of 2026. This modernisation is part of a comprehensive programme that is being implemented in close cooperation with the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). As a technology partner, HENSOLDT is responsible for the delivery and integration of the new sensor packages.
The BAA III sensor package marks a technological leap forward for the Bundeswehr’s reconnaissance systems. It integrates a laser target designator, which enables precise target illumination for the use of precision weapons, as well as a laser pointer/illuminator. The new dual-band HDTV camera ‘Red Kite’ offers improved reconnaissance capabilities in the visible (VIS) and short-wave infrared range (SWIR), which ensures optimal target detection both day and night and enables observation of laser activities. In addition, the modern operating and display unit improves ergonomics and makes it easier to use under operational conditions.
Tanya Altmann, Head of the Optronics & Land Solutions division at HENSOLDT, emphasises the importance of the modernisation: ‘With the upgrade of the Fennek vehicles to the BAA III sensor package, we are setting a new standard in military reconnaissance. The integrated, high-precision systems offer the user superior sensor performance and make the decisive difference in complex operational scenarios. As a technology partner, we are proud to contribute to the operational capability of our armed forces with state-of-the-art optoelectronics.’
The BAA III not only adds operational value through improved target detection and tracking, but is also prepared for future requirements, as it is designed for the integration of further digital interfaces.
10 Nov 24. Finland Offers to Host NATO Reconnaissance Drone Base Near Russian Border. Finland has proposed hosting a NATO reconnaissance drone base, with the Pirkkala Air Base identified as the most likely location. The facility would boost NATO’s ability to monitor military activity along its eastern borders, especially near Russia. Currently, NATO’s drones operate from Italy but conduct regular missions over Finnish airspace to gather intelligence on the region. If NATO approves, Finland would host advanced reconnaissance drones, like the RQ-4 Global Hawk, which can endure Nordic weather and cover large areas. These drones are capable of monitoring up to 500 kilometers into Russian territory, providing NATO with crucial intelligence for regional security. Since joining NATO in April 2023, Finland has expanded its military defenses, prompting criticism from Russia. Moscow recently warned against NATO’s growing presence along its borders, and Finland has accused Russia of facilitating unauthorized border crossings. In response, Finland has closed its border with Russia and increased regional security measures. A final decision on the base location is expected in 2024. The proposed facility would bring NATO’s ISR capabilities closer to Russia, enhancing its ability to respond to potential threats in Northern Europe. (Source: https://www.sofx.com/)
11 Nov 24. Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT AG and Paul Lemmo, vice president and general manager Integrated Warfare Systems and Sensors at Lockheed Martin, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on a potential cooperation in the field of maritime command and control systems and radar technologies. “This MoU with Lockheed Martin reflects our positioning as a reliable partner for national and international security and defence programs and our strategic development as a provider of integrated system solutions,” said Oliver Dörre on the occasion of the signing of the MoU. “We are already working together successfully on various projects. We are therefore all the more looking forward to working with the Lockheed Martin team to drive forward concepts with pioneering technologies in the field of maritime command and control systems and radar and thus contribute to the sustainable expansion of the capabilities of our military customers and partners including the potential of local value creation” Dörre continued. “Lockheed Martin is dedicated to building industrial partnerships for programs in Germany and beyond. Our collaborative efforts in radar development will result in high-performance systems, constructed, and sustained in Germany, ensuring operational capability now and for decades to come.” – Paul Lemmo, vice president and general manager, Integrated Warfare Systems and Sensors at Lockheed Martin.
11 Nov 24. Diehl Defence Teams with Skysec to Develop C-UAS System. Diehl Defence has teamed up with Skysec to develop a drone interceptor. Diehl works with Skysec’s subsidiary, Skysec Defence, to modify the original civilian-oriented net-arresting interceptor into a hard-kill system suitable for military missions. Armasuisse, the Swiss Federal Office of Armaments, backs the program. Sky Sphere has undergone initial test flights without a live warhead. According to company sources, the system could be matured within 18-24 months. Earlier this month, Diehl displayed an innovative C-UAS system called ‘Sky Sphere.’ Using a kinetic effector designed specifically for this mission, this system complements other air defense capabilities by engaging small, slow, and low-flying targets such as unmanned aerial vehicles, one-way attack drones, and multi-rotors. The weapon relies on target data from a radar or EO system that detects, classifies, and tracks the flying object as hostile. Launched from a container/launcher, the interceptor accelerates toward the target through the midcourse flight, flying at a 200 km/h speed using the high RPM electrical engine. Reaching the target vicinity, it activates its active RF seeker to maneuver the end game. Onboard battery power supports 4-5 minutes of flight at this speed, enabling successful engagements beyond five kilometers, close in, and maneuver toward the target to engage it head-on. The high-explosive fragmenting warhead is optimized to defeat soft targets such as OWA UAVs within a 10-meter sphere. The seeker is at the front, followed by the rotor, engine, power source, and electronic circuitry. The warhead is situated at the rear end of the airframe, optimizing the lethal effect of a relatively small charge on the target. The original (non-kinetic) interceptor developed by Skysec utilized a net and parachute to neutralize a small drone flying over a restricted area, such as an airfield, with minimal collateral risk. At a length of 700 mm and diameter of 300 mm, it weighs 1.8 kg and flies at a maximum speed of 65 m/sec (235 km/h). Its intelligent flight controller manages complex customized flight plans like take-off, cruise, terrain follow, and object avoiding, along with interception of moving targets and planning the intercept within a safe zone. (Source: UAS VISION/Defense Update)
11 Nov 24. South Korea’s ETRI Develops EO/IR-Linked Radar Technology for C-UAS. A South Korean research team has succeeded in developing a new technology that can detect and track illegal flying drones that cause crimes such as unauthorized flying, terrorism, and privacy invasion. This technology is expected to strengthen national security and enhance public safety against the threat of illegal drones. The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) has developed technology to detect and track illegal drones using an EO/IR (Electro-Optics/Infrared) linked radar system. The institute has successfully commercialized the technology by transferring it to Samjung Solution Co., Ltd., and it is now close to being deployed in the field.
ETRI’s EO/IR-linked radar technology for illegal drone detection and tracking is designed to detect, track, and identify incoming drones by automatically directing EO/IR sensors toward the target detected by radar. The system is based on a radar subsystem and an EO/IR subsystem.
The radar subsystem was co-developed by ETRI and Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd., and is designed to detect small drones within a 5km radius using the Ku-band, avoiding the X-band, which is widely used for military purposes.
The EO/IR subsystem was independently developed by ETRI. This subsystem receives target information from the radar, uses an EO/IR camera to capture video footage of the target, and then detects, tracks, and identifies the drone based on that footage. The EO/IR subsystem can detect and track targets up to 3km away and can determine whether a flying object is a drone when it comes within 2km.
Meanwhile, ETRI transferred this technology to Samjung Solution Co., Ltd. in 2022. Samjung Solution then commercialized the technology through the Short-Term Security R&D Technology Commercialization Project, which ran from April 2022 to March 2024, as part of the Police Technology Commercialization Project, which was led by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korean National Police Agency.
As part of this project, Samjung Solution developed an integrated solution for low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles and successfully registered their ‘Vehicle-type Integrated Solution System,’ developed on July 18, in the Nara Marketplace of the Public Procurement Service.
ETRI used this technology during the 2024 Ulchi Training for an illegal drone response exercise. On August 20, the research team successfully detected and tracked a drone remotely as it attempted to infiltrate ETRI headquarters. Once the drone was within visual range, they confirmed its presence and successfully neutralized it by jamming its signals.
Through this training, it was confirmed that the illegal drone detection and tracking technology using ETRI’s EO/IR-linked radar system can be effectively applied in the actual field. With the successful development of this technology, ETRI is expected to contribute to strengthening national security and emerge as a leader in security and defense technology, protecting the safety of the nation and the public.
Cha Ji-Hun, Director of ETRI’s Autonomous UAV Research Section, stated,
“Our EO/IR-linked radar system for illegal drone detection and tracking is an advanced technology that can respond quickly and accurately to external threats posed by illegal drones. This new technology is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing national security and public safety. ETRI will continue to devote its efforts to developing innovative solutions that contribute to national security and public safety.”
Researchers involved in this project expect that this technology will be used in a variety of fields such as monitoring and surveillance for illegal drones at major events, public facilities, sports arenas, VIP protection, border patrol, coastline monitoring, drone traffic control, UTM-based facilities, and more. (Source: UAS VISION/National Research Council of Science and Technology)
08 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that FAA issues RFI to support UAS integration. The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Integration Office has issued a request for information (RFI) to industry stakeholders. The RFI seeks insights into research that could support the safe integration of emerging aviation technologies, such as drones and advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles, into the National Airspace System (NAS).
The RFI invites feedback on research priorities that may inform future standards and technology development as the FAA prepares to accommodate new airspace entrants.
“Research is central to creating effective policies, regulations, and procedures for new entrants like UAS/AAM vehicles,” FAA officials stated. Ongoing studies will help shape a framework for the assessment and integration of these technologies, enabling the FAA to make strategic, data-driven decisions in rulemaking, policy, certification and operational planning.
Key areas for feedback include beyond visual-line-of-sight operations, which would enable drones and other aircraft to operate outside the direct view of their controllers. The FAA also aims to explore command and control link technologies to ensure reliable communication between operators and unmanned vehicles, a crucial element for safe operations.
Traffic management systems for UAS, alongside broader air traffic control innovations, are also prioritised, with the RFI highlighting the need for advanced solutions to accommodate more unmanned vehicles in shared airspace. The FAA noted that “research into noise and societal impacts is also necessary,” adding that industry standards for interoperability will need to include vehicle-to-vehicle and aircraft-to-everything communication as well as detect-and-avoid capabilities.
Additional research areas include the risk of collisions among air vehicles of varying sizes and speeds, as well as electronic conspicuity technologies that increase the visibility of unmanned aircraft to others within the airspace. Human factors, including the human-system interface and training standards for UAS pilots and crew, are also a priority.
The FAA has emphasised the importance of advanced automation through artificial intelligence and machine learning applications to support the operations of these new technologies. Infrastructure needs, including airports, droneports and vertiports, are flagged as essential to accommodate the evolving landscape of air mobility. Additionally, hazardous material risks related to UAS cargo or power sources are highlighted as an area for analysis.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/faa-issues-rfi-to-support-uas-integration/(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
08 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that D-Fend forms partnership with U.S. Navy for C-UAS testing.
D-Fend Solutions, a developer of radio frequency cyber-based, non-kinetic, non-jamming counter-drone technology, has announced a new partnership with the U.S. D-Fend has partnered with the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) under its Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) programme.
The collaboration will focus on rigorous testing of D-Fend’s C-UAS technology across Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security test sites.
The testing is scheduled to take place at selected government airfields, commercial airports and various other facilities, with each site selected upon mutual agreement between D-Fend Solutions and NSWC PCD.
According to the agreement, D-Fend’s EnforceAir C-UAS detection, tracking and identification system will be deployed to gather continuous data on drones that breach airspace regulations, aiming to enhance drone mitigation and airport security capabilities.
“Partnering with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division under the CRADA programme provides a pivotal opportunity for us to continue to advance our counter-drone technology in complex and challenging military and civil aviation environments,” said Zohar Halachmi, Chairman and CEO of D-Fend Solutions.
“The expertise and rigorous standards of the NSWC PCD make them an exceptional partner, as we move to fulfil evolving airport security demands. Together, we will accelerate the evaluation and demonstration of our leading RF-Cyber C-UAS technology as we carry out the mission of protecting public safety and maintaining the continuity of essential operations.”
The new CRADA initiative is not the first time D-Fend has been involved in airport security programmes. In 2023, D-Fend Solutions contributed to the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Section 383 Research Programme, with testing conducted at Atlantic City International Airport and Syracuse Hancock International Airport.
The partnership is part of a larger effort within defence and public safety to enhance the ability to detect and neutralise unauthorised drones near sensitive locations, ensuring public safety and uninterrupted airport operations.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/d-fend-forms-partnership-with-u-s-navy-for-c-uas-testing/(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
08 Nov 24. USMC seeking dismounted C-UAS tech for urgent release. After industry demonstrations at Twentynine Palms, California, the US Marine Corps is evaluating counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) solutions from 17 companies through an urgent needs process and for an eventual programme of record, an official with the Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD) programme office told Janes in an interview on 5 November.
The selected system is anticipated to be in the hands of marines by at least the end of boreal summer 2025 but it could be as soon as a couple of months, Major Jason Dempsey, C-UAS and GBAD capabilities integration officer, told Janes. The GBAD programme office plans to have firmed up the requirements document for the programme of record at some point in 2025, he said.
A request for information released in July 2024 led to more than 60 companies submitting technology for the industry day. From that pool, 17 technologies, which ranged from enhanced optics to artificial intelligence-guided fire controls, were selected.
Some were kinetic-based solutions but most were non-kinetic detect, track, and identify solutions like jamming systems. Because an interim solution is needed quickly, marines took notice of some companies that had 50–100 systems already on the shelf, Maj Dempsey noted.
(Source: Janes)
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Echodyne is a U.S. designer and manufacturer of advanced commercial radar solutions for defense and national security applications. The company’s proprietary metamaterials electronically scanned array (MESA®) architecture, a rare breakthrough in advanced radar engineering, leverages a physics-design approach to adapt conventional materials and deliver unexpected and beneficial behavior. The result is a solid-state, low-SWaP unit coupled with advanced software capabilities that delivers superior radar performance and unparalleled data integrity, radically improving system performance and enhancing safety for people and machines. With leading positions in counter-UAS, force protection, base security, and portable ISR, Defense Agencies and Suppliers rely on Echodyne radar for extraordinary accuracy and consistent, reliable operation. For more information, please visit: Echodyne.com.
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