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29 Nov 24. Terma Connect expands its capabilities with the launch of a premium package, building on the success of the digital service platform which collects operating data from all radars in multiple locations, and presents it in a single, easy-to-use platform. The new package introduces new features, like more detailed graph options, an integrated task manager for efficient planning, and customizable functions that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each customer. With Terma Connect Premium, users can access a suite of graphs that provide an overview of radar data, enabling better monitoring and analysis. The task manager feature allows for seamless scheduling of maintenance activities. Additionally, the premium package can be customized to ensure that users can get features that align with their operational needs. The latest upgrade also includes a new dashboard that showcases key information about radar health into a user-friendly interface. This simplifies the monitoring, making it easier to detect potential incidents. In an environment where maximum uptime is critical, early fault detection is invaluable. Already implemented by Avinor and in use at Oslo Gardermoen Airport, Terma Connect is essential for streamlined monitoring of their radar operations: “Terma Connect allows us to keep an overview of our radars and allow us to run maintenance and handle potential incidents before they happen. This keeps the airport running” says Thomas Østvang, who is responsible for radar systems and surface surveillance at Oslo Gardermoen Airport. Additionally, Connect Premium offers advanced reporting features that enable users to customize and tailor reports to fit specific needs. Users can extract data and reports directly from Terma Connect and ensure offline representation of data trends and statistics. This flexibility allows for differentiated reporting, ensuring the content reaches the right stakeholders while streamlining the reporting process.
What’s next for Terma Connect?
The future of Terma Connect is one of constant evolution. Going forward premium users can look forward to regular updates and new features three times a year. This will keep the platform adaptable to future technological advancements. This ensures Terma Connect remains future-proof and can consistently meet the changing demands of the industry.
“At Terma we want to deliver digital solutions that not only meet today’s challenges but also anticipate and adapt to tomorrow’s needs within monitoring and pre-emptive maintenance of radar sites. This is exactly what we have done with Terma Connect and Connect Premium” says Jesper Bak Olesen, Vice President, Applications at Terma.
28 Nov 24. US Army developing AESA radar for combat rotorcraft. US Army officials are looking to develop an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, specifically for the ground service’s fleet of combat rotorcraft, according to a November request for information (RFI). The Apache Attack Helicopter (PM AAH) office, within the Program Executive Office for Aviation (PEO AVN), is leading the development of the ASEA radar variant, the RFI stated. The radar will be designed to meet programme requirements for the service’s AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, and Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). US Army officials approved the Bell V-280 Valor to enter the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase for the FLRAA programme in August, clearing the way for work on the prototype and low-rate initial production (LRIP). Bell is set to build six prototypes of the Black Hawk replacement, with the first scheduled to fly in 2026. LRIP aircraft are scheduled for production in 2028, and the type’s entry into service is expected in 2030. EMD approval came after the V-280 cleared preliminary design review (PDR) in April. The capabilities aboard the AESA radar being sought by the army for the FLRAA and its current rotorcraft fleet will include fire control, pilot aid in Degraded Visual Environments (DVEs), airborne hazard detection, terrain following and avoidance, and shoreline mapping using augmented reality (AR) techniques, according to the RFI. Industry prototypes will be evaluated during test exercises at Army Test and Evaluation Command’s Redstone Test Center (RTC) at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, service officials wrote in the RFI. Test and evaluation scenarios will include “attack profiles for ground, air, and littoral targeting”, they added. (Source: Janes)
28 Nov 24. USAF seeks C2, data relay capability for tactical drone swarms. Programme officials at the US Air Force (USAF) are soliciting information from industry to support the development of new command-and-control (C2), data relay, and electronic warfare (EW) payloads, specifically for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUASs). Managed by the Offensive Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS) System Program Office (SPO), as part of the air service’s Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance & Special Operations Forces directorate, the sUAS payloads being sought will be able to provide C2 and data relay capabilities “to an sUAS swarm in a contested environment”, according to a November request for information (RFI). The EW payload will enable the USAF’s small unmanned aircraft to carry out those missions “in a contested environment”, the RFI stated. The focus of the programme will be to develop those specific integrated payloads for signature-managed Group 3 sUASs, service officials said. Group 3 sUASs are defined as tactical-level UASs with an operational weight of 1,320 lb, a maximum speed of 250 kt, and an altitude ceiling of 180 ft, according to a US Department of Defense (DoD) fact sheet. Examples of Group 3 sUASs include the RQ-7 Shadow and the Small Tactical Unmanned Aerial System (STUAS). USAF programme officials have not publicly disclosed which Group 3 sUAS the payloads will be developed for in the RFI. However, they did note that industry proposals would be weighed against “platforms with currently integrated payload solutions”. The C2 and data relay payloads, according to the RFI, would be used to enable drone swarms of Group 2 sUASs. (Source: Janes)
27 Nov 24. Today, Immersive Display Solutions, Inc. (IDSI), a leading global supplier of immersive training solutions, and Vrgineers, a leading global supplier of XR headsets, announced collaboration on the new Somnium VR1 mixed reality (MR) headset. IDSI will be showcasing the VR1 headset as the role player in a Joint Fires training scenario. Vrgineers’ Somnium VR1 is today’s most user-friendly mixed reality (MR) headset. Known for its affordability, durability, and TAA compliance, the Somnium VR1 offers impressive 3K per eye resolution, 4K mixed reality cameras, and SteamVR tracking with embedded UltraLeap hand tracking. This all-in-one headset features custom hybrid cables, extending up to 16.4 feet (5m) with metallic and optical lines to ensure latency-free mixed reality experiences over longer distances.
“We are excited to showcase the potential of mixed reality, in this case in the JTAC training. We believe the Somnium VR1 fills a crucial gap in the market, offering an affordable yet professional solution,” says Marek Polcak, Vrgineers CEO.
“IDSI is pleased with how quickly the VR1 integrated with the RAVE Renderbeast,” said George T. Forbes Jr. CEO of Immersive Display Solutions. He continued “We believe that the combination of Somnium VR1 with RenderBeast delivers the training performance that our customers require.”
Demonstrations will be powered by MACE and ARMOR developed by Battlespace Simulations Inc. (BSI). ARMOR provides advanced 3D visualization capability allowing trainees to enhance situational awareness and mission rehearsal by observing and interacting with simulated environments in real-time. MACE is the core electronic warfare simulation functionality. Additionally, they can connect directly with Vrgineers’ newly released Generic Classroom Trainer, delivering a turnkey solution for comprehensive training that integrates pilots, command & control, and JTACs.
IDSI will demonstrate the Somnium VR1 with Renderbeast at I/ITSEC 24 in Orlando (booth #1381)
About IDSI: IDSI is a systems integrator and global solutions provider of immersive visual displays for simulation and training. Solutions range from mixed reality, dvLED, static and full-motion direct project full and partial domes, cylindrical, and panoramic displays, mobile trailer-based and classroom training systems, and visual system upgrades, with all solutions supported by internal software engineering and support. IDSI
27 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that Thales Australia and University of Adelaide partner to explore long-range laser C-UAS technology. Thales Australia and the University of Adelaide have this week announced a partnership to explore development of a unique Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) to counter threats from drone swarms on the battlefield. The partnership aims to explore the application of ultra-short pulse LDEW where long-range continuous wave systems – which have a more limited range and are slower to defeat threats – have traditionally been used. By developing ultra-short pulse lasers (USPL), the partnership has the goal of delivering a capability that is, Thales states:
“More effective at long range, can penetrate through fog or cloud, and has a significantly smaller weight, space and power requirement, enabling mobility, transportability and integration into vehicles and smaller platforms.”
The development of USPL is the next step in transforming directed energy capabilities, one of six core priorities of the Australian Government’s Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA). The ASCA was launched by the Australian Government on July 1, 2023 with the mission of accelerating the delivery of capability to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) by “connecting and streamlining the defence innovation system”.
Graham Evenden, Director Business Growth at Thales Australia, commented that the recent partnership with the University of Adelaide is an exciting opportunity to deliver “a unique USPL technology that builds on Thales’ expertise in Directed Energy Weapons, optronics and laser science.”
Professor Anton Middelberg, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of Adelaide highlighted the role of the University as “one of the nation’s most research-intensive institutions” with the partnership acting as “part of the University’s commitment to ensuring it builds and maintains the research skills, infrastructure, commercialisation and knowledge transfer abilities required to contribute to the defence of our nation.”
https://cuashub.com/en/content/thales-australia-and-university-of-adelaide-developing-laser-c-uas-technology/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
27 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that Oklahoma National Guard drives Counter UAS development. On November 7, the Oklahoma National Guard (OKNG) was joined by representatives from state, education and the defence industry to discuss the development of Counter UAS technologies. With specific focus on interoperability and standardization, participants discussed advancements in both UAS and Counter UAS capabilities. This demonstrates the OKNG’s continued commitment to innovation within the Counter UAS market following the testing exercises conducted in March earlier this year alongside industry partners. Reflecting on the event and broader efforts from the OKNG to position itself at the centre of innovation, Colonel Shane Reiley, Director of the National Guard’s Launched Effects Program stated that:
“The Oklahoma National Guard is connected to the broader environment of innovation like never before. I think it is really a model for successful integration that gives Oklahoma dynamic opportunities”.
Colonel Riley is expected to expand on these developments at the Loitering Munitions USA conference taking place next April, where he will provide further updates into ongoing efforts to advance both offensive and defensive UAS capabilities.
The OKNG also announced that the meeting has resulted in the establishment of an expert group called the Launched Effects Alliance, which marks a further milestone and step towards institutionalizing vital conversations around UAS & Counter UAS capability development.
Although the membership list of this group has not been publicly announced, Colonel Riley also reflecting on its importance, stating that:
“This is really an unofficial agreement for a broad group of hyper-capable organizations to work together to solve big problems. In these meetings, I’m surrounded by PhD industry leaders, state employees and defense activity decision makers that want to move fast and solve problems.”
The emphasis on collaboration demonstrates recognition from all concerned stakeholders that siloed development and discussions undermine the capability development required to address both the threats and opportunities in the UAS field.
These efforts fit within the OKNG’s wider mission and modernization priorities designed to ensure that future warfighters are equipped with the technologies required to operate effectively in modern conflict.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/oklahoma-national-guard-drives-counter-uas-development/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
27 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that Officials call for counter-UAS solutions in UK prisons. Authorities have observed a sharp rise in the use of drones to smuggle contraband into prisons in England and Wales, sparking warnings from officials about escalating risks. Drone incidents around prisons have increased almost tenfold since 2019, with 1,063 sightings recorded last year compared to just 122 four years earlier, figures obtained by the BBC reveal.
HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Charlie Taylor, highlighted the dangers posed by drones delivering larger payloads into prison facilities:
“We are seeing bigger payloads of drugs coming into prisons, more mobile phones. Drones are becoming more sophisticated in terms of how much they can carry, so of course it adds to the risk of potentially other more risky things coming into prisons.”
Taylor warned that drones can quickly enter and exit prison grounds, bypassing traditional security measures:
“We know security is being compromised in lots of prisons when it comes to drone activity. They can be in and out of a jail very quickly.”
A former prisoner described witnessing several drone drops during his 14-year incarceration:
“A drone can come into prison and it ain’t getting stopped. And there could be anything on the drone. There could be a gun,” he said. “I’ll be stood at the window at night time, and the lads will be talking out of the window, and all of a sudden a drone will come over. Someone will grab the parcel. That’s how easy it is.”
Drones are increasingly a concern
Prisons across England and Wales are grappling with the issue. Inspectors recently described HMP Garth in Lancashire as “like an airport” due to the frequency of drone activity. At HMP Swaleside in Kent, drones delivering contraband have become a “major problem,” and at HMP Guys Marsh in Dorset, drone drops and thrown items are a constant challenge, according to monitoring boards.
Drones have even been used creatively by inmates. At HMP Garth, prisoners reportedly burned holes in cell windows to allow drones inside and used stolen broom handles to retrieve contraband parcels.
Steve Gillan, general secretary of the Prison Officers Association (POA), warned of dire consequences if the issue remains unchecked:
“Unless it’s dealt with, I predict there could be a total disaster in one of our prisons if drones are flown in with incendiary devices, a gun or ammunition.”
The POA has called for strengthened measures, including physical barriers like netting and technological solutions to detect and repel drones. “We’ve been saying for a long time that things will get worse, not better, unless drones can be blocked from the perimeters of prisons,” Gillan added.
Counter-UAS solutions
While Drone Defence’s Skyfence, a virtual anti-drone fence, trialled in Guernsey successfully repelled drones by disrupting their signals, no similar systems have yet been deployed in England and Wales. Prison governor John De Carteret noted the system’s effectiveness:
“When a drone tries to breach the perimeter, it’s repelled until it runs out of battery and then it slowly lowers itself to the floor.”
In response to the growing threat, the Prison Service has installed restricted fly zones around prisons and worked with police to secure over 90 drone-related convictions, leading to sentences totaling more than 315 years.
A Prison Service spokesperson said: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to drugs, and these figures show our work locally with the police to deter, detect, and disrupt the growing illegal use of drones around prisons.”
Underlying issues persist
Dr Erin Sanders-McDonough, a criminologist from the University of Kent, emphasised that addressing drone use alone is insufficient: “The mechanisms to get drugs through the door have been constantly evolving. We need a holistic approach that tackles the root issues, including mental health provision and drug treatment programs.”
Taylor echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for secure physical infrastructure and advanced detection technology to combat the growing drone threat: “It’s about having netting in place that helps to stop drones being able to land… and technological solutions like detecting drones and having CCTV cameras that pick up where drones are dropping stuff off.”
As the frequency and sophistication of drone incidents continue to rise, experts and officials alike are urging urgent action to mitigate the threat and protect the safety of prison staff and inmates.
(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
27 Nov 24. Smart body cameras could assist SANDF, BMA. One of the items brought to this year’s South African Army Exercise Vuk’uhlome Distinguished Visitors’ Day on 21 November by the defence and security industry was a smart body camera incorporating video and communications. The body camera on display by Vision Digital (Pty) Ltd is equipped with functionality that allows for the use of either a sim card enabled by 5G capability utilising a standard commercial Mobile Operator’s network, or a Private 5G network. It can also utilise WiFi, allowing for a great deal of flexibility in the method of communications. In addition to standard body camera functionality, the device has GPS location enabled, allowing for blue force tracking. Along with the video capability it also can transmit audio utilising voice over IP (VOIP) to and from the command centre which provides true real-time situational awareness and response. The device also has a SOS button that activates an alarm to a monitoring centre where emergency response can be actioned depending on the situation. Apart from the security official being able to active a video recording, take pictures or communicate via audio with the command centre, the command centre can also remotely control these functionalities on each deployed device as well as have a graphical view of exactly where every security official is situated.
Vision Digital’s Vickesh Dhookie explained that the smart body camera is ideal for defence and security sectors like the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Border Management Authority (BMA) as well as the South African Police Service (SAPS) and private security companies.
For the SANDF, Dhookie believes the new body camera would be a great improvement over its existing capabilities, as the SANDF is familiar with Tetra (terrestrial trunked radio), which is 2G and voice only, whereas the 5G-enabled body camera can do video, voice and GPS location.
In addition, advanced video analytics and artificial intelligence can be incorporated to improve the device’s capabilities.
Dhookie is currently working with the SANDF to look at rolling out Private 5G communications for the SANDF to ensure it maintains sovereignty over its communications infrastructure. This can be greatly expedited by the SANDF as ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa) does provide allowance to the SANDF for the required spectrum. A private 5G network would allow security as well as a broad, fast communications network to be established and thus forming a foundational building block on the SANDF’s digital transformation journey. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
26 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that Ondas secures latest order for Iron-Drone Raider system. Ondas Holdings has announced a its latest purchase order for its Iron Drone Raider counter-drone system, placed by a major Israeli defense company. This development follows an initial purchase order for the system back in May, followed by a series of successes throughout 2024. The Iron Drone Raider, a state-of-the-art counter-uncrewed aircraft system (C-UAS), uses AI-driven technology to intercept and neutralise hostile drones with minimal collateral damage. Originally launched commercially last year, the system has since been enhanced to meet military specifications and is gaining traction among defence and homeland security agencies.
“We are building our presence in the defence sector by introducing the Iron Drone Raider platform to important players in the market with capabilities that are tailored for military deployments,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas. “We believe this system offers best-in-class specifications and will help protect borders and critical infrastructure in countries worldwide.”
During the third quarter of 2024, Ondas Autonomous Systems (OAS), the company’s drone solutions arm, secured multiple defence-related orders, including $9 m from a government military customer. The Iron Drone Raider is being deployed as part of a multi-layered homeland security infrastructure designed to safeguard critical locations, assets and populations from emerging drone threats. https://cuashub.com/en/content/ondas-secures-latest-order-for-iron-drone-raider-system/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
26 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that unidentified drones spotted over US bases in Britain. Unidentified drones have been observed flying over three bases used by the United States Air Force in Britain, authorities from both countries confirmed. The incidents, which occurred between Wednesday and Saturday, involved the Royal Air Force (RAF) bases at Lakenheath, Mildenhall and Feltwell in eastern England.
A spokesperson for the US Air Forces in Europe stated: “Installation leaders determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.”
According to a CNN source, five to six drones were involved, and their activity appeared to be coordinated. While the origin of the drones remains under investigation, they were not believed to be operated by hobbyists. The source added that the drones posed no threat to the bases, nor was there evidence they had gathered sensitive intelligence.
A representative of the UK Ministry of Defence said: “We take threats seriously and maintain robust measures at defence sites. This includes counter-drone security capabilities.”
Both governments declined to provide further details on the events.
The three bases, located just miles apart, are key to US and NATO operations. RAF Mildenhall is home to the USAF’s 100th Air Refueling Wing, the only permanent American wing in Europe for air refueling. Nearby, RAF Lakenheath houses the 48th Fighter Wing, which has played significant roles in operations in Afghanistan and Iraq since 9/11. RAF Feltwell, while smaller, supports military logistics and operations.
This is not the first time these bases have faced security challenges. In 2017, a car attempted to breach the Mildenhall base entrance, prompting US personnel to fire shots and initiate a temporary lockdown.
The coordinated drone sightings come amid heightened concerns over the use of UAS for reconnaissance or disruptive purposes. Both the US and UK are expected to continue their investigations into the incidents.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/unidentified-drones-spotted-over-us-bases-in-britain/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
26 Nov 24. November is Critical Infrastructure Security Month. This November the UK is marking Critical Infrastructure Security Month (CISM) for the first time, and we are doing so alongside our key allies Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States of America. CISM is an opportunity for us to highlight the importance of boosting resilience among our critical national infrastructure (CNI): the infrastructure and systems that we cannot live without. CNI resilience is fundamental to the functioning of our society. This includes clean drinking water, reliable IT networks, the provision of energy, access to healthcare and our emergency services. Resilience is a whole-of-society effort, where everyone must play a part. By working with our international partners, we are strengthening our work to address the threats to our CNI, minimising disruption wherever possible. Our CNI landscape has changed significantly in recent years. We are more aware than ever of the role cyber systems play in our everyday lives and, therefore, work within and outside government is carried out to strengthen the resilience of cyber CNI. In September, the government designated data infrastructure as a CNI subsector within the wider Communications sector. Through the CNI framework and closer partnership between government and industry, data housed and processed in UK data centres is less likely to be compromised during outages, cyber attacks, and adverse weather events. This puts data centres and cloud providers on an equal footing as water, energy and emergency services systems and will mean that data centres sector can now expect greater government support in anticipating and responding to critical incidents, giving the industry greater reassurance when setting up business in the UK and helping generate economic growth for all. The resilience of our CNI is fundamental to this government’s missions: their success must rest on resilient foundations. That is why we work across government and with industry and devolved governments to ensure our CNI is as resilient as possible. Our constant close working with our international partners, highlighted during CISM, is also a core part of this endeavour. Through this work, we also collaborate with the National Cyber Security Centre and the National Protective Security Authority. They provide a wealth of resources that are available to UK businesses to help them bolster their cyber and physical resilience. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
25 Nov 24. Teledyne FLIR to Provide Thermal Cameras for Red Cat Drone Black Widow US Army SRR Program Award. Teledyne FLIR, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, has announced that it has been selected by Red Cat Holdings, Inc., to provide thermal imaging and Artificial Intelligence (AI) embedded software for its Black Widow small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS). Red Cat was selected as the winner of the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record after an evaluation process completed by the Army Project Management Office for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, Army Maneuver Battle Lab, Army Test and Evaluation Command, and Army Operational Test Center.The U.S. Army’s current acquisition objective is for 5,880 systems, with each system consisting of two aircraft. Red Cat incorporated Teledyne FLIR’s NDAA-compliant Hadron 640R+ longwave infrared and mega-pixel visible camera module and its Prism AI embedded perception software into Black Widow, a highly capable, rucksack-portable sUAS designed for operation in Electronic Warfare (EW) environments. Black Widow’s fully modular architecture enables swift adaptation to diverse mission requirements, including SSR and secondary payload operation.
“We are proud to be selected by Red Cat to support the Black Widow with unparalleled tactical capabilities for the U.S. Army’s SSR Program,” said Paul Clayton, Vice President, Teledyne FLIR. “This collaboration provides the Black Widow with superior yet compact dual thermal-visible imaging along with AI software libraries that enable classification, object detection, and object tracking to complete the mission day or night.”
“The Hadron 640R+, with its best-in-class thermal vision, will play a key role in helping the warfighter Dominate the Night with the Black Widow,” said George Matus, CTO of Red Cat. “We are thrilled to continue our longstanding relationship with the world leader in thermal imaging technology, enabling Red Cat to accelerate deployment to the U.S. DoD and its allies across the globe.”
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-free Hadron 640R+ provides a 640×512-resolution thermal camera with industry-leading thermal sensitivity and a 64-MP resolution visible camera in a size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimized package. Paired with Prism AI embedded software, the combination can enable high-precision object detection within application-specific classes, multiple object tracking, motion target indication, and more. Military+Aerospace Electronics magazine recently recognized Teledyne FLIR’s Prism digital ecosystem as a Platinum Honoree, its highest award for innovation in defense and aerospace.
25 Nov 24. DroneShield Limited (ASX:DRO) (“DroneShield” or “the Company”) has released the latest update to its full range of Radio Frequency (RF) sensors including the RfPatrol, DroneSentry-X and RfOne models. This update adds new drone models and communication protocols which can be identified by RFAI, including new types of home-made or non-commercial UxS. RF devices operate with greater stability and accuracy resulting in faster, more reliable drone detection.
New features include:
- Faster Scanning with AI: Detection scans are now 17% faster, so users are notified of drones sooner and kept up to date in near-real-time. Settings can be configured to further optimize scan time based on mission requirements
- New Drone Types: RFAI drone library has been expanded to recognize more signals which are used in custom and aftermarket drones
- Growing API: Each device’s inbuilt gRPC API extends to cover greater control of positioning systems. Disruption protocols are faster and more regular, providing dependability when it matters most
- Cybersecurity Resilience: Onboard firmware has seen a slew of security improvements in line with expectations from leading defense clients
- AI & Software Improvements: Increased accuracy in direction-finding calculations, as well as future-proofing features for upcoming performance improvements in 2025
Angus Bean, DroneShield Chief Technology Officer, commented, “DroneShield always aims to provide our customers with industry-leading technology so they can maintain the highest degree of safety and security in the face of an evolving drone threat.”
For more information on product capabilities, visit www.droneshield.com.
26 Nov 24. Wavefront Systems Ltd., a leader in sonar technology, has been awarded a contract by glodal defense company MARSS Group to deliver its Sentinel IDS® (Intruder Detection Sonar) as part of MARSS’s NiDAR surveillance system for a fleet of Corvette-class vessels deployed in South-East Asia. The contract involves the installation of NiDAR and associated sensors, by MARSS, onboard multiple vessels. The NiDAR platform will fuse a range of new and legacy sensors – including Wavefront’s Sentinel IDS sonar, navigational radars and infrared cameras – into a single user interface, to provide a highly accurate and rapid means of detecting and classifying underwater and surface threats to the vessel, when in transit, at anchor or in port. Wavefront’s Sentinel IDS as part of a NiDAR C2 ‘Command & Control’ system, or installed as a standalone system, protects assets and people, across all domains, including ships and yachts, critical national infrastructure, and civilian or military harbours. This contract represents the first occasion when NiDAR will be operational on combat-facing vessels. The project, beginning this year, is expected to run until 2029, with the first vessel due for handover in 2026. Sentinel IDS automatically detects, classifies and tracks underwater threats approaching your protected area or asset, such as a diver, swimmer delivery vehicle or underwater drone. The latest generation IDS, Sentinel 2, adds advanced Simultaneous In-band Active and Passive Sonar capability (SInAPS®) to identify threats and protect assets, at ranges of up to 1500m for mini-subs and diver detection at up to 1000m. Sentinel IDS has been designed for simple integration into C2 systems using industry standard APIs allowing the system to automatically inform the operator of any potential threat without the need for sonar-trained personnel. Deployment of the sonar heads, for this project, is made via a through-hull deployment machine allowing for rapid deployment and retrieval.
Frederik Giepmans, Managing Director MARSS Maritime, added, “By bringing our NiDAR technology to the front lines of naval defence, we’re not just expanding our market reach, but actively contributing to the security of those who serve and the nations they represent. It’s a responsibility we take very seriously, which is why we only work with sector-leading sensor partners – such as Wavefront – with systems our customers can rely on.”
Commenting on this sale Ioseba Tena, Managing Director of Forcys – Wavefront’s sister company and now the primary route to market for future defence programmes – said, “This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration. By combining MARSS C2 with Wavefront’s Sentinel, navies worldwide have been able to protect critical assets worldwide from underwater threats. At Forcys, we look forward to continuing this legacy and supporting new customers whose naval bases and ships are currently at risk.”
ABOUT WAVEFRONT
Founded in 2004 and now part of the Covelya Group, Wavefront Systems Ltd has a mission to apply engineering excellence to the problems of underwater detection, imaging and navigation. Wavefront works with its customers to make the underwater world visible – protecting Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), preventing maritime collisions, monitoring the integrity of undersea assets and exploring our under-water world with stunning high-resolution imagery.
Product Portfolio
- Sentinel IDS® – Intruder Detection Sonar is the world’s most deployed Intruder Detection Sonar capable of detecting, tracking and classifying underwater targets including new drone threats;
- Vigilant FLS® – Forward-Looking Sonar is a Forward Looking Sonar with unique patented technology capable of depth finding at ranges ahead of your vessel in excess of 20 times the prevailing water depth;
- Solstice MAS® – Multi-Aperture Sonar is a unique Multi-Aperture Sonar designed to provide world-class imagery by blending the high performance of Synthetic Aperture Sonar with the reliability and robustness of conventional side-scan; and
- Sentry IMS – Integrity Monitoring Sonar is a field-proven Integrity Monitoring Sonar designed for ocean depth deployments where it continuously monitors bns of cubic feet of seawater around critical seabed assets.
ABOUT FORCYS
Forcys is a global maritime defence company. Backed by 50 years of expertise in the domain and an in-house developed technology portfolio, we deliver, integrate and support customer-shaped solutions for navies and defence organisations, helping them to defend and project battlespace advantage above and below the surface.
25 Nov 24. New AI-Enabled Cameras Improve Airspace Monitoring in Washington Area. Around Washington, D.C., the National Capital Region is partially protected by an integrated air defense system installed after 9/11 to keep an eye on the skies and defend against airborne threats. It’s monitored through a network of cameras and lasers that are in the process of being upgraded.
The new, artificial intelligence-based visual recognition and identification system is spread throughout the NCR and offers an exponential increase in capability compared to the old system. Known as the Enhanced Regional Situational Awareness system, the ERSA system is closely monitored by the Eastern Air Defense Sector in Rome, New York.
“If we need to validate some radar data that we can’t for sure say what it is, we can utilize the camera system as an asset to look in that set location to assist in the validation process,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Kendrick Wilburn, a New York Air National Guardsman and the noncommissioned officer-in-charge of capabilities and requirements at the Joint Air Defense Operations Center at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C.
The JADOC hosts a National Guard squadron from EADS that, in partnership with the Army, operates ERSA. When there are perceived threats within the NCR, the JADOC ERSA operators act as an extension of the sector to rapidly assess the situation and determine if they need to warn unauthorized air traffic to get out of the NCR Special Flight Rules Area.
The new ERSA cameras each have a naked eye-type of view known as an electro-optical visual, as well as an infrared view of the landscape. Made by small tech company Teleidoscope, they’re replacing a system that was installed in 2002, which had replaced the initial cameras installed after 9/11.
Wilburn said the new AI-capable cameras are a vast improvement over the legacy system.
“You have an extended range — you can see further. We went from standard definition to high definition. The fidelity is incredible,” Wilburn said. “On the infrared side, you have multiple enhanced features like IR colorization. For example, you could utilize a RGB filter to where … the object that we’re tracking sticks out via heat signature.”
A laser range finder allows operators to shoot an eye-safe laser at an object to measure its altitude and distance. There are also some machine-learning elements to the system, such as an enhanced auto-tracking feature that has various locking modes.
“The system itself tries to identify what it believes the target to be, and then the operator can assess whether to override it or fine-tune it,” Wilburn said. “The more the feature is used, the better it’ll get.”
He said there have been a few growing pains, but that’s to be expected.
“The camera itself is amazing. We were able to acquire small targets such as a bird flying all kinds of patterns. It locked onto it and held that lock,” Wilburn said. “With the legacies , you’d have a harder time getting the system to do that.”
“You can imagine looking at the camera quality on your iPhone from 2011 to today,” said Marine Corps Maj. Nicholas Ksiasek, a Defense Innovation Unit project manager involved in the upgrade project. “Instead of trying to hold steady on the airplane … are able to spend more time on things that are better suited… like trying to think about what the intent is of the aircraft.”
The cameras also integrate a visual warning system, which is a laser that can illuminate the cockpit of an aircraft. The new lasers are used on aircraft that aren’t following an assigned flight plan and aren’t in radio contact or compliant with the Federal Aviation Administration’s special flight rules.
“Non-compliant aircraft are aware that, when they see the red-green laser, they need to turn to a heading away from the center of the flight restricted zone, or SFRA, as soon as possible and immediately contact the FAA to try to figure out why they’re being sparkled at,” Wilburn said, referring to lingo for the visual warning system when it’s in use. “There are times that I’ve used it … and are responsive to it.”
Without that option, military aircraft would have to be deployed to investigate — a much more costly alternative.
Teleidoscope’s cameras were tested out by air defense operators during the acquisition process. Two other companies were selected to create prototypes out of commercially developed and available technology. All three systems were installed and tested in 2022.
“They were able to see what worked best in their unique scenario,” Ksiasek said.
Wilburn said Teleidoscope’s software enhancements were what made its cameras stand out.
“That camera felt like it was an upgrade, versus the other ones were kind of like a refresh,” he said.
The Defense Innovation Unit helped Teleidoscope secure funding from the Air Force and the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies program to quickly field the new camera system. Two of the new cameras have been installed and are operational. The team is working to install seven new cameras a year going forward. (Source: U.S. DoD)
22 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that Anduril announces $200m Marine Corps contract. The U.S. Marine Corps has awarded Anduril Industries a $200m, five-year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract to develop and deliver a Counter-UAS Engagement System (CES) as part of its Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS) programme. The CES aims to bolster the Marine Air Ground Task Force’s defences against a spectrum of air threats, particularly unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The CES, a critical component of the MADIS block upgrade program, is designed to provide advanced C-UAS capabilities that address the challenges posed by evolving drone threats. Central to this system is Anduril’s Anvil, a kinetic interceptor tailored to neutralise Group 1 and Group 2 drones. Anvil employs autonomous onboard computing and sensors for precise targeting, offering a low-collateral solution to dynamic threat environments.
The CES will also utilise Anduril’s Lattice operating system, an open-architecture platform integrating sensor fusion, artificial intelligence and edge computing. This system allows for streamlined threat detection, tracking and response, enabling Marines to make rapid decisions in high-tempo operations. According to Anduril, this modular approach supports continuous upgrades, ensuring the system evolves to counter emerging threats.
Operational implications for the Marine Corps
The MADIS CES aims to improve the Marine Corps’ ability to counter a broad spectrum of aerial threats, including drones, fixed-wing aircraft and rotary-wing systems. The contract also allows for ongoing Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs), enabling swift integration of new capabilities as they are developed.
Chris Brose, Chief Strategy Officer at Anduril Industries, discussed how the systems’ capabilities will aid with the Marine Corp’s operational needs:
“By leveraging advanced AI and autonomy, Anduril’s CES will provide the Marines with a robust and scalable solution to counter evolving drone threats, ensuring greater protection and operational effectiveness on the battlefield.”
Anduril’s previous work with the Marine Corps, including the deployment of its fixed-site Sentry Towers for detecting and defeating UAS threats, has influenced the CES design. These installations have provided a testbed for refining the technologies now incorporated into the MADIS CES, which is intended for use in forward-deployed and expeditionary environments.
Pat Morris, VP of Air Defense at Anduril, stated:
“We are proud to support the Marine Corps in this vital mission and look forward to continued collaboration in delivering critical capabilities to the warfighter.”
Broader impacts
This contract is the latest effort by the Marine Corps’ to advance its expeditionary air defence systems, with Epirus having recently been contracted to deliver its Leonidas system. The integration of autonomous systems, open architectures and continuous updates reflects a shift toward more adaptable and scalable defence strategies.
While Anduril’s CES is expected to deliver notable enhancements to counter-drone capabilities, its effectiveness in addressing the full range of modern aerial threats will likely depend on continued innovation and real-world operational feedback.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/anduril-announced-200-m-marine-corps-contract/(Source: https://cuashub.com/)
22 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that Invariant Corporation secures $200 m to contribute to Marine Corps’ MADIS. Huntsville-based Invariant Corporation has been awarded a $200 m contract by the U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command to assist in development of the C-UAS Engagement System (CES). The system will enhance the Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), a key component of the Marines’ air defence plans. This follows another contract, also awarded November 19 and valued at $200 m, to Anduril Industries under the same programme. The five-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract, which includes firm-fixed-price and cost-plus-fixed-fee components, represents Invariant’s largest contract to date. The CES will be mounted on Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) trailers, creating a mobile defence solution designed to counter Group 2 and Group 3 UAS threats.
“This contract represents a pivotal achievement in our company’s history and underscores our commitment to national defence,” said Daniel Levis, Invariant’s Director of Technical Operations. “With over a decade of experience in C-UAS development, this award enables us to continue delivering advanced solutions tailored to meet emerging threats.”
Invariant’s system will incorporate proprietary technologies such as the Multi-Use Launch Electronics (MULE) and the Optical Surveillance Infrared (OSIRIS) Imaging System. These technologies are intended to enhance detection, tracking and engagement capabilities against larger and more advanced drones. The company will also work with industry partners to integrate additional capabilities into the system.
The contract runs through October 2029, with a base period and four optional ordering periods. Initial funding has been allocated from the Marine Corps’ fiscal year 2024 research, development, test and evaluation budget.
The CES is part of a broader push by the U.S. Marine Corps to address evolving drone threats, which have become increasingly sophisticated on the modern battlefield. By focusing on mobility and advanced technology, the CES aims to provide forward-deployed forces with improved protection and operational flexibility.
This award highlights the ongoing investment in counter-drone technologies by the U.S. Department of Defense as adversaries increasingly utilise unmanned systems to challenge traditional military operations.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/invariant-corporation-secures-200-m-to-contribute-to-marine-corps-madis/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
25 Nov 24. Department of Defense Awards $5.1m to Demonstrate and Establish Process to Recrystallize Nitroguanidine. The Department of Defense recently made two awards totaling $5.1m to Canadian Commercial Corporation and Estes Energetics. These awards, facilitated through the Defense Production Act Purchases (DPAP) office, in collaboration with the Joint Program Executive Office Armaments and Ammunition, will enable the recipients to demonstrate and subsequently establish a process for recrystallizing nitroguanidine (NQ), a key energetic. This effort supports the 2024 National Defense Industrial Strategy’s objective to ensure the availability of raw materials to increase supply chain resilience and, in turn, support domestic production of critical weapon systems.
“These investments will ensure continued domestic availability of a critical energetic while a new U.S.-based manufacturing capability for NQ is established,” said Dr. Laura Taylor-Kale, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (ASD(IBP)).
The DPAP office and the Army are jointly funding the effort. Canadian Commercial Corporation, which is based in Ottawa, Ontario, was awarded $3.4m for the effort, of which $2.9m is DPA funding and $0.5m is Army funding. Execution of this award will be completed by General Dynamics – Ordnance and Tactical Systems in Valleyfield, Canada. Estes Energetics, which is based in Penrose, Colorado, received $1.7 m for the effort, of which $1.1m is DPA funding and $0.6 m is Army funding.
Demand for the solvent extruded triple base propellant and IMX explosives used in critical artillery systems has surged as a result of current global conflicts. One major production limitation for these materials is the requirement for large quantities of NQ, which are currently imported. With this DPA Title III funding, the award recipients will establish a recrystallization technology capable of reprocessing the large existing DoD inventory of NQ, thereby helping to mitigate the risk of supply chain issues stemming from NQ shortages.
“This important investment will ensure that production of weapon systems that use triple base propellant and advanced explosives, such as 155mm artillery rounds, is not disrupted while utilizing the DoD’s reserves of NQ,” added Mr. Anthony Di Stasio, Director of the Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization (MCEIP) directorate within OASD(IBP).
These were two of the 70 awards, totaling $672m, made by the DPAP program in Fiscal Year 2024. The DPAP office is overseen by the MCEIP directorate.
For more information visit https://www.businessdefense.gov/ibr/mceip/index.html and https://jpeoaa.army.mil/.
About the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (OASD(IBP))
The OASD(IBP) works with domestic and international partners to forge and sustain a robust, secure, and resilient industrial base enabling the warfighter, now and in the future. OASD(IBP) also utilizes a new Defense Industrial Base Consortium Other Transaction Agreement (DIBC OTA) to solicit new ideas for research or prototype project solutions for critical Supply Chain Resiliency Focus Areas. It underscores the Department’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding the integrity of our crucial supply chain and furnishing our warfighters with requisite materials and technologies promptly. To learn more about the DIBC OTA, please visit: https://www.dibconsortium.org. (Source: U.S. DoD)
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