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20 Mar 25. Northrop Grumman MESA. For over 75 years, Airborne Early Warning & Control platforms have been indispensable assets to military forces around the globe. From early detection and surveillance to air defense and strategic deterrence, they are crucial to ensuring air superiority. One such platform plays a pivotal role in airborne command and control and battle management: the E-7. Working as part of a larger network of platforms and systems, the E-7 serves as the airborne mission conductor, allowing operators to assess the landscape and direct fleet operations accordingly. This is made possible by having a comprehensive picture of the operational environment. Northrop Grumman’s Multi-Role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) — the multifunction surveillance sensor for the E-7 — provides operators 360-degree coverage of the battlespace and the ability to detect, track and classify a wide array of airborne, maritime and ground threats from long ranges. This real-time data is used to orchestrate the fleet in dynamic situations for effective mission execution.
Battle-Tested and Continuously Modernized
MESA’s combat identification (ID) technology — a key differentiator on the sensor — determines and discriminates friendly assets from potential threats and allows operators to manage operations dynamically at mission speed. In rapidly changing environments, the flexibility and agility of this technology maximizes the effectiveness of allied forces and strengthens engagement decisions. In collaboration with Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Northrop Grumman recently developed enhanced combat ID capabilities for MESA, and integrated and tested the updates using an operational E-7 aircraft. Rather than simulating performance via a testbed aircraft, an in-service E-7 was utilized to perform these flight tests, reflecting the technical maturity and mission readiness of these capabilities. The mission system integration and subsequent flight tests were conducted from RAAF Base Williamtown, home to Australia’s E-7 aircraft. Flying in a true mission environment with these advanced capabilities for the first time, MESA identified air threats and securely processed key intel faster than ever before.
“Military operators need instant, precise identification data to make real-time decisions, especially as the battle landscape continues to advance at an exceedingly rapid pace,” said Ed Griebel, vice president of airborne surveillance programs, Northrop Grumman. “We’re modernizing our multifunction sensor technology – including MESA – to deliver resilient capabilities quickly and without disruption.”
One Team, One Global Fight
Northrop Grumman delivers critical capabilities and mature technologies to keep allied forces operating ahead of enemy threats. The use of digital transformation and advanced manufacturing, coupled with extensive testing practices, allow Northrop Grumman to scale production efforts and execute with speed and discipline.
“MESA’s performance is a testament to Northrop Grumman’s commitment to program execution and operating in a digital ecosystem,” said Griebel. “Working in a seamless environment with our customers and suppliers ensures our systems directly reflect customer needs and the current environment, and that they work the first time, every time.”
The collaboration and real-time feedback allow Northrop Grumman to make enhancements when needed, thanks to the open systems architecture of both the E-7 and MESA. The E-7 serves as a critical communications node for the joint force —a conductor, if you will — and relies on its advanced sensing and interoperability to make sure the fleet is in the right place at the right time. The Northrop Grumman team, alongside customers and platform operators, will integrate these enhanced combat ID capabilities across current and future E-7 fleets. MESA is currently in production for the U.S. and Royal Air Forces and actively fielded on E-7s for the Royal Australian, Turkish and Republic of Korea Air Forces. Learn more about MESA.
19 Mar 25. Compact Video Compression Solution for Challenging Environments from DTC. Domo Tactical Communications (DTC) introduces Vidar, a compact, high-performance video compression system designed for real-time, low-bandwidth streaming in contested environments. Domo Tactical Communications (DTC), a leader in mission-critical communication solutions, has introduced Vidar, an ultra-compact two-channel video compression system engineered to deliver real-time, high-quality video streaming in the most demanding environments. Designed to operate over ultra-low bandwidths, Vidar provides seamless transmission even in contested, congested, or remote network conditions. Engineered for uninterrupted video streaming in unstable or low-connectivity environments, Vidar minimizes latency while maintaining exceptional video clarity. Whether deployed in remote locations with poor cellular coverage or integrated into private IP networks, the system ensures reliable and robust video transmission. Its ultra-low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) profile makes it an ideal choice for drone-mounted applications, tactical surveillance, and other space-constrained deployments.
Jacob Randbaek, Business Unit Director, Law Enforcement at DTC, said, “Vidar will position itself as a strong contender in the miniature, low bandwidth video streaming market. Vidar has a significantly smaller footprint than its competitors and has the advantage of interfacing with external modems and RF radios for ultimate resilience. This flexibility in deployment, increases maneuverability, ease of integration and reduces its SWaP. Vidar has no dependence on servers allowing it to stand alone in a mission. As an independent product it can stream directly to a smartphone, to a monitoring site or into a preferred video management system, enhancing mission effect immediately.”
Key Features & Capabilities
* Compact & Lightweight: Optimized for low SWaP, ensuring ease of deployment on UAVs, ground vehicles, and personnel-worn systems.
* High-Quality Streaming with Low Bandwidth Consumption: Maintains superior video clarity even in austere conditions.
* Flexible Connectivity: Interfaces seamlessly with external modems, RF radios, and standard IP/USB cameras, leveraging existing camera infrastructure for cost-effective deployment.
* Advanced Motion Detection & Image Capture: Users can define areas of interest and automatically capture high-quality still images.
* Pre- & Post-Event Recording: Configurable recording options ensure mission-critical moments are preserved, with automatic image transfer to secure FTP/SFTP servers for further analysis.
* Seamless Integration: Supports RTSP and WebRTC, enabling smooth ingestion into existing video management systems or direct playback on mobile devices.
* 4G & 5G Compatibility: Utilizes public networks at ultra-low data rates, ensuring continuous 24/7 situational awareness while optimizing data usage and storage.
With Vidar, DTC continues to enhance real-time video streaming solutions for defense, law enforcement, and tactical operations, providing mission-critical reliability in the most challenging environments.
(Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
19 Mar 25. ELTA North America to evaluate M3S2 for US DoD. The suite is tailored for both tracked and wheeled vehicles and includes a range of tactical sensors. ELTA North America, based in Maryland, US, has secured a contract from the US Department of Defense (DoD) to assess the capabilities of the new multi-mission/multi-sensor suite (M3S2). The M3S2 is designed to enhance situational awareness with a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) footprint, and provide defensive options for military vehicles and assets. This system integrates radar and electro-optical sensors into a compact package, offering active protection, counter-uncrewed aerial systems, and advanced ground surveillance. The suite is tailored for both tracked and wheeled vehicles and includes a range of tactical sensors such as staring radars, muzzle flash detectors, and acoustic sensors. These are coordinated through a central signal processing unit that employs enhanced algorithms to ensure accurate target information is relayed to the operator. The system’s Man Machine Interface simplifies decision-making for immediate action. Its modular nature facilitates easy integration with different weapon stations and turrets, states the company. Additionally, when connected to the Fire Control System, the M3S2 completes the sensor-to-shooter loop.
ELTA North America CEO Joe Adams said: “As modern threats evolve, so must our defensive solutions. The M3S2 provides 360-degree tactical vehicle protection, seamlessly combining advanced sensors to counter a wide range of threats while reducing the need for multiple, standalone systems.”
Previously, in 2021, ELTA North America delivered the OTM V4 counter-small uncrewed aerial system to the US Department of Defense and the US Department of Homeland Security. ELTA North America undertakes?classified and unclassified work? under a US Government mitigated foreign ownership, control, or influence status and is affiliated with Israel aerospace Industries. (Source: army-technology.com)
19 Mar 25. Anduril, OpenAI partner to boost counter-drone tech for bases, troops. Defense technology firm Anduril Industries announced this week it will partner with ChatGPT-maker OpenAI to use the company’s artificial intelligence models to improve the U.S. military’s ability to protect its bases and personnel from drone attacks.
“Anduril and OpenAI will explore how leading edge AI models can be leveraged to rapidly synthesize time-sensitive data, reduce the burden on human operators and improve situational awareness,” Anduril said in a statement Wednesday. “These models, which will be trained on Anduril’s industry-leading library of data on CUAS threats and operations, will help protect U.S. and allied military personnel and ensure mission success.”
The companies did not disclose whether there is funding attached to the agreement, which continues a recent trend of large AI firms partnering with the defense industry. In November, Anthropic and Palantir announced they would work with Amazon Web Services to sell Anthropic’s AI models to defense and intelligence agencies. The partnership comes amid growing concerns about weaponized drones, which have been used against U.S. and allied forces in the Middle East and Ukraine. In June, the Defense Intelligence Agency reported that a slew of attacks by Iran-backed groups on shipping vessels in the Red Sea affected 65 countries and 29 major energy and shipping firms. The Pentagon is working to push cutting-edge counter-drone technology to the military services through the second phase of its Replicator program, created to bypass the sluggish acquisition processes that keep the Defense Department from adopting and scaling technology. Anduril is on contract to provide hardware and software for the first iteration of Replicator, which is on track to field thousands of small drones by next summer. The firm also announced a $250m contract to deliver 500 of its Roadrunner counter drone systems to an unnamed Defense Department customer. And earlier this week, the Pentagon’s Chief Digital and AI Office awarded Anduril a $100m contract to increase production of its Lattice Mesh networking capability. The Defense Department is already using the data distribution platform at a small scale, but the three-year CDAO contract will make it available to all services and combatant commands. (Source: Defense News)
19 Mar 25. Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has successfully integrated its AN/TPQ-53 multi-mission radar (MMR) with the Joint Task Force – Southern Border (JTF-SB) command and control systems in an operational environment, supporting U.S. Northern Command’s (USNORTHCOM) southern border mission. The AN/TPQ-53 MMR’s open architecture design allows seamless integration with a variety of sensors and systems, providing a unified operational picture. This flexibility enables the system to quickly incorporate new capabilities and cutting-edge software, ensuring service members have the necessary tools to respond to emerging threats before they can adapt.
“The successful integration of the AN/TPQ-53 MMR in the southern border deployment showcases the power of collaboration between industry, government agencies such as the Department of Defense’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office and end-users in addressing complex challenges,” said Rick Cordaro, Lockheed Martin’s vice president and general manager of Radar Sensors and Systems. “The AN/TPQ-53 MMR’s proven performance and reliability have earned it a reputation as a trusted asset, and its open architecture design ensures it will remain a vital component of USNORTHCOM’s mission to actively work with Customs and Border Protection to secure the southern border.”
The USNORTHCOM southern border mission demands the capability to detect and track various threats, ranging from airborne to ground-based threats. The AN/TPQ-53 MMR is built to address this demand, offering agile and precise 360-degree scanning that can be deployed in under five minutes. The system identifies rapid threats, such as unmanned aerial systems , enabling service members to swiftly detect and respond with agility. This integration with the JTF-SB follows recent demonstrations Northern Strike and Desert Guardian 1.0 highlighting AN/TPQ-53’s ability to quickly adopt software updates and meet urgent national security priorities.
19 Mar 25. Ukraine conflict: Kara Dag Technologies develops new UAS detector. Ukrainian drone detection specialist Kara Dag Technologies is developing a new variant of its Obriy artificial intelligence (AI)-powered unmanned aircraft system (UAS) detector, incorporating advances in radio frequency (RF) detection and other innovations learnt from active use by the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in the war against Russia. Kara Dag Technologies was founded in 2023 by Ukrainian information technology (IT) engineers to address the growing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to both militaries and civilians, said Andrew Poberezhniuk, co-founder and chief operating officer (COO) of the company. Its major offering for militaries is the Obriy 1.3 UAS detector, which is used by the AFU on the front lines to detect incoming UASs across multiple frequency bands (1.2 GHz, 2.4 GHz, and 4.8 GHz), Poberezhniuk said. The wearable system is designed to detect the approach and direction of UASs up to 4 km away, including DJI-type drones and first-person view (FPV) systems. The system is built on advances in AI, machine learning (ML), and radio signal recognition. It can be connected to a monitor for video interception, Poberezhniuk said, providing insights into the FPV drone’s point of view and approach vector. “It also offers the possibility of integration with electronic warfare (EW) systems, ensuring they activate only upon detecting a hostile signal rather than operating continuously, as it damages the jammer and its battery,” he said. The system’s new customers are military personnel, volunteers, or individuals involved in civilian evacuations, he added. “We have recently expanded our production capabilities, enabling us to focus not only on Ukraine but also on international markets where our technology can enhance security and protection.” (Source: Janes)
19 Mar 25. Cuashub.com said today that UK law enforcement crack down on stadium drone incursions. A man has been ordered to pay nearly £3,000 in fines and costs after illegally flying his drone over a football stadium and exceeding legal height limits on multiple occasions. Nicholas Durbin, 45, of Upton, Wirral, was found guilty at Sefton Magistrates’ Court on March 13, 2025, of four offenses related to drone operation. The court heard that Durbin flew his drone from the Wirral, crossing the River Mersey to Everton’s new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock on May 9, 2024. During the flight, he exceeded the 400ft height limit, posing a potential risk to other airspace users, and flew up to 1.3km from his take-off point, violating the requirement to maintain visual line of sight. Durbin committed a similar violation on March 20, 2024, when he flew a drone nearly 300ft above the legal height limit in Anglesey. On that occasion, he also flew 2.39km from his take-off point, again losing visual contact with the aircraft. He was convicted of two counts of failing to comply with operating height regulations and two counts of failing to keep an unmanned aircraft in sight. As a result, Durbin was fined £1,600, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £640 and court costs of £650, bringing the total to £2,890. Sergeant Kyle Sayers of Merseyside Police warned that authorities would be stepping up enforcement against illegal drone use, particularly during major public events.
“Over the coming months, Merseyside Police will be proactively targeting illegal drone use, and during the Aintree Festival next month, a temporary restricted airspace will be in place,” he said. “Drone users who fly inside a restricted airspace without permission will be guilty of committing an offense and could be prosecuted, as well as having their equipment seized and confiscated.”
Merseyside Police have previously imposed drone restrictions during high-profile events such as Eurovision, the Aintree Festival and the visit of HMS Prince of Wales. Officers say these measures, along with road closures and river patrols, are crucial in ensuring public safety. https://cuashub.com/en/content/uk-law-enforcement-crack-down-on-stadium-drone-incursions/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/
19 Mar 25. Cuashub.com said today that Saab and Swedish Air Force unveil “Loke” counter-UAS system. The Swedish Air Force, in collaboration with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration and Saab, has rapidly developed and evaluated a new counter-drone system, known as “Loke,” in just 84 days. The project, aimed at addressing the growing threat posed by UAS, marks a key step in Sweden’s efforts to enhance its air defense capabilities. The rise of drone technology has introduced new challenges for military forces, with commercial and military drones operating at low altitudes, often evading traditional detection methods. Existing air defense systems, primarily designed to counter conventional aircraft and missiles, are not optimized for small, slow-moving drones. The Swedish military’s swift development of “Loke” suggests an urgent need for adaptive counter-UAS solutions that can respond to these evolving threats. The system is described as modular and mobile, integrating multiple components across the detection, tracking and engagement phases. It includes the Giraffe 1X radar for detection and classification, a command-and-control system based on short-range air defense (SHORAD) principles, and the Trackfire remote weapon station, commonly used on naval vessels. The result is a flexible counter-drone solution designed for rapid deployment and real-world effectiveness.
“This wasn’t a typical product development cycle spanning several years,” said Carl-Johan Bergholm, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab’s business area Surveillance. “By cleverly repurposing existing products and integrating new features and technologies, we brought the concept together at record speed.”
The project was led by Sweden’s Air Warfare School, Command and Control Warfare School and Air Force Staff, with support from the Ground Warfare School. Personnel from Norrbotten Air Wing, F 21, were also involved, ensuring operator perspectives were incorporated early in the process. The Swedish Air Force plans to integrate “Loke” into its combat units by late 2025.
Major General Jonas Wikman, Chief of the Swedish Air Force, emphasized the importance of rapid innovation in military development:
“We need to constantly evolve and find fast and competent solutions to build a stronger Air Force,” he said.
With the proliferation of drone threats showing no signs of slowing, Sweden’s accelerated approach to counter-drone technology reflects a broader trend among military forces worldwide, particularly in Europe where efforts to advance defence capabilities are accelerating.
https://cuashub.com/en/content/saab-and-swedish-air-force-unveil-loke-counter-uas-system/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/
19 Mar 25. Cuashub.com said today that Norwegian Army drops tennis balls to simulate drone attacks in NATO exercise. The Norwegian Army has taken a unique approach to drone warfare training by using tennis balls to simulate explosive payloads during NATO’s Joint Viking 2025 exercise. The drills, which took place in Northern Norway, tested soldiers’ ability to detect, evade and counter modern drone threats in an evolving battlespace. The exercise incorporated drone swarms and FPV drones, tactics that have been widely observed in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Operators maneuvered FPVs in dive attack patterns to mimic real-world drone strikes, while tennis balls served as stand-ins for munitions. According to Maj. Tor Sellevold of the Norwegian Army’s Combat Lab, the exercise was designed to provide participating forces with insights into their aerial visibility and vulnerabilities.
“To simulate attacks on participating forces, tennis balls were dropped and FPVs were flown in dive attack patterns to simulate modern-day drone threats,” Sellevold said. “The purpose was to provide insights to the participants of their own aerial signature, experience the threat from top-attack drones and evaluate their standard operating procedures.”
More than 30 tennis balls were dropped across ten FPV sorties, marking the first time the Norwegian Army has conducted such large-scale drone attack simulations. Soldiers had to quickly adapt by improving camouflage, dispersing into smaller groups and employing deception tactics to avoid detection. Sigurd, the Army’s head of drones, noted that the difference in soldier responses over the course of the exercise was significant.
“The same people we exposed to drone threats in the first days made a lot of improvements,” Sigurd said. “When we came back, we noticed an incredibly big difference. They have done a great job, and I would especially like to highlight the Combat Training Battalion.”
Norway is closely monitoring Ukraine’s battlefield innovations in drone warfare, particularly as drones become increasingly effective at striking armored vehicles and even aircraft. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense recently announced the Drone Line project, which aims to establish a 15-kilometer unmanned “kill zone” along the front lines using a mix of reconnaissance and attack drones. Norwegian defense officials are keen to integrate lessons from Ukraine into their own military planning. The Norwegian Army is also looking to acquire new drones optimized for Arctic conditions, featuring advanced long-range cameras for extended surveillance capabilities. Unlike frontline units, the military intelligence battalion plans to operate drones from greater distances, enhancing battlefield awareness without direct engagement. During Joint Viking, the U.S.-made Puma drone, manufactured by AeroVironment, was among the surveillance assets deployed. With drones becoming a dominant force in modern warfare, the Norwegian Army’s latest training exercise highlights the growing importance of counter-drone tactics and adaptation in military strategy. https://cuashub.com/en/content/norwegian-army-drops-tennis-balls-to-simulate-drone-attacks-in-nato-exercise/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
19 Mar 25. Australia’s ‘biggest defence export’ was meant to go to the US first, but Canada snuck past Donald Trump.
In short: Canada was always meant to follow the United States in acquiring world-leading Australian radar technology but “things moved quickly” after Donald Trump won the US presidency.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the $6.5bn JORN purchase overnight, after a conversation with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
What’s next?
Defence Minister Richard Marles says there are still some hurdles to clear, but the sale of the technology would be the biggest defence export in Australia’s history.
For months, senior officials have been discussing exporting Australia’s world-leading radar technology JORN to the United States, but after Donald Trump’s return to the White House, Canada saw an opportunity and leapt. Overnight, new Canadian leader Mark Carney spoke to his counterpart, Anthony Albanese, then flew to his country’s Arctic territory of Nunavut to announce a $6.5 bn high-tech Australian military purchase.
“Today, I’m announcing that our government will be working with our long-standing defence and security partner Australia to build a new, long-range, over-the-horizon military radar system,” he said.
“[It] will enable Canada to detect and respond to both air and maritime threats over our Arctic both faster and from further away. It will most fundamentally keep all Canadians safe.”
Following President Trump’s repeated threats to annex Canada and Greenland, Ottawa is purchasing the Australian-developed technology known as the Jindalee Over-the-Horizon Radar (JORN) to build its new Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar system. Ottawa has been under pressure from Washington to step up its defence spending and the new radar system will support “NORAD”, the joint US-Canadian initiative that detects incoming threats. Now in its fourth decade of service, the high-frequency, sky-wave, over-the-horizon (OTHR) system is considered the most advanced in the world, providing wide-area surveillance of ships and aircraft out to 3,000 kilometres. Unlike traditional radars that were limited by line of sight, Australian scientists designed JORN to beam a high-frequency radio signal skywards towards the ionosphere above the earth’s surface, which then refracted the signal down to illuminate a target. The echo from the target then travels by a similar path back to a separate receiver site and the data received is processed into real-time tracking information — a capability crucial to monitoring Australia’s vast northern maritime approaches. With the United States continuing its campaign of tariffs on foreign nations, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was good for Australia to “diversify” its trade relationships.
“[Mark Carney] certainly spoke to me about the over-the-horizon radar technology that Canada is interested in purchasing from Australia, it’s important that we diversify our trade relationships,” Mr Albanese said.
“It’s important that we develop that diverse series of relationships and Canada is a very important one, we have so much in common.”
DOGE razor gang made JORN project uncertain
In recent meetings, senior Australian officials have continued discussing exporting and installing the JORN technology on the United States’ west coast, but the massive project faces uncertainty under the Elon Musk-led DOGE audit of Pentagon spending. For well over a year, American military officials have privately expressed interest in purchasing Australia’s JORN technology because of its potential to monitor military movements as far away as China’s mainland. One senior Australian official confirmed to the ABC that “the Canadians were always going to follow the US purchase and slipstream off that” but circumstances changed and “things moved quickly”.
Following Canada’s announcement, Defence Minister Richard Marles talked up the potential of the final JORN deal, which could end up being Australia’s largest military export on record.
“There’s a little water to go under the bridge, but what’s in prospect here is potentially the biggest defence industry export that Australia has ever been a part of,” he told ABC News Breakfast.
“That would obviously be very good for Australian industry.”
The ABC has confirmed the United Kingdom, where the parent company of BAE Systems Australia is based, has also expressed interest in purchasing the JORN technology, but is yet to approve the idea. (Source: Google/https://www.abc.net.au/news)
09 Oct 24. ARES Security and MatrixSpace announce a technology partnership that combines the AI collaborative sensing capability of MatrixSpace Radar™ with ARES Security’s AVERT Mission Planning and Operations (MPO) software for autonomous systems. The AVERT MPO software enables mission planning and control for squads of ground and aerial robotic systems from a single interface in a remote tactical operations center (TOC). The expendable low SWAP-C MatrixSpace Radar, which can be deployed on ground and aerial autonomous platforms, brings unparalleled adversary, vehicle, and sUAS detection capability into the AVERT MPO common operational picture. Through this collaboration, customers, in particular branches of the Department of Defense, are now equipped with a decisive tactical advantage across a range of security and defense applications. The new capabilities will be featured at the Department of Defense’s Thunderstorm 24.4 in early November, an invitation-only field technology showcase focused on innovative solutions for expeditionary military operations.
“Battlespaces and secure sites have a myriad of objects they must detect accurately, moving at rapid speeds in all weather conditions, day and night. Building MatrixSpace Radar into the ARES solution takes it to the next level in terms of managing and monitoring these secure locations. Enabling rapid counter UAS initiatives by bringing advanced technological solutions to the DoD is the key focus of our partnership,” stated Lori DeMatteis, CRO, MatrixSpace.
MatrixSpace Radar offers robust situational awareness of both airborne and ground-based objects, regardless of lighting and weather conditions. This facilitates highly accurate detection and Counter Uncrewed Aircraft System (CUAS) capabilities, Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight for uncrewed, autonomous and tethered aircraft, and overall general awareness and security. AVERT MPO integrates robotic platforms, sensors, and personnel using the tactical assault kit (TAK) into a common operational picture providing critical data for informed decisions and rapid response. AVERT MPO is unique in its ability to automate robotic sentries using trusted AI, intelligent pathing, and 3D modeling / simulation, and is capable of integrating with over 450 sensors through an advanced C2 platform, providing a decisive advantage during tactical operations.
Ben Eazzetta, CEO of ARES Security commented: “We are impressed by MatrixSpace’s powerful radar that delivers new levels of 4D outdoor surveillance, enhancing detection range, accuracy, and adaptability to adverse conditions. Paired with AVERT MPO’s AI-driven control and intelligent pathing, the solution enables precise mission planning, faster threat responses, and optimized patrols, creating a more robust security ecosystem for any security force protecting personnel and assets.”
18 Mar 25. Greece to Deploy Four New French Patroller Long-Range Surveillance Drones. The Hellenic Armed Forces are set to receive four Patroller drones in the coming months, likely by summer, as part of a program valued at approximately €55m. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will be operated by the Army Aviation and are expected to enhance Greece’s surveillance capabilities over key areas, including the Aegean Sea and Thrace. Greece has chosen two airfields to host the UAVs: Rhodes, at the military airfield in Maritsa, and Chrysoupoli Airport in Kavala. From these locations, the drones will be able to monitor the Eastern Aegean, including the Kastellorizo complex, the northern Aegean, and Greece’s land border with Türkiye, providing comprehensive coverage of national territorial interests. Initially, Crete was considered as a base for two of the Patroller UAVs designated for high-priority surveillance missions in the southeastern Aegean. However, the military leadership opted for Rhodes to extend operational coverage further. The Patroller drones, manufactured by Safran Electronics & Defense in France, are designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and target acquisition. They will provide real-time data to operations centers and are capable of detecting and tracking small targets at long distances. Personnel from the Army Aviation are currently undergoing training in France to operate and maintain the Patroller UAVs. Once delivered, the drones will be immediately operational for surveillance missions. The Patroller has a top speed of 200 km/h and can fly at altitudes up to 16,000 feet. With external fuel tanks, it can remain airborne for up to 15 hours, allowing for extended coverage of vast areas. The drone can carry payloads up to 210 kg, enabling integration with advanced sensors. The fuselage houses intelligence-gathering equipment capable of processing data from land, sea, and air operations. A notable advantage of the Patroller compared to other UAVs is its low radar signature, which makes it difficult to detect, especially when flying at long distances and low altitudes. The four UAVs arriving in Greece will not be armed, but the military is already considering acquiring additional Patroller units in an armed UCAV configuration. This would enable them to use laser designation for guided munitions, such as rockets and other precision-strike weapons. The Chrysoupoli base in Kavala has been officially designated as a key operational site for the new UAVs, with infrastructure developments already underway. The Greek Ministry of Defense has awarded a contract worth €226,433.15 to RENEL I.K.E. for the construction of a new readiness facility to accommodate the drones. The contract was awarded with an average discount of 10.95%. At the same time, a separate contract for the construction of a 15-position special vehicle hangar was canceled.
Greece’s acquisition of the Patroller follows a NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) contract signed in June 2023 between Safran Electronics & Defense and the Greek Army. The agreement aims to modernize the Army’s tactical UAV fleet by replacing older Sperwer drones, which Greece has operated since 2002. The Patroller was the first tactical drone to receive NATO STANAG 4671 certification in February 2023, a crucial step for fixed-wing UAVs over 150 kg operating in controlled airspace. The Patroller is classified as a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAV, capable of flying up to 16,000 feet and reaching speeds between 100 and 200 km/h. Designed for intelligence gathering, surveillance, and target acquisition, it can support both external operations and domestic security missions, including maritime patrols. It features advanced sensors, high-resolution radar, and an electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) payload capable of tracking moving targets. Additionally, it has electronic warfare capabilities, allowing it to conduct signal intelligence and electronic surveillance missions. Greece is the first confirmed export customer for the Patroller, with deliveries scheduled for late 2024 and 2025. The Greek Army will use the drones primarily for surveillance missions. The first production Patroller was delivered to the French Army in May 2024, with further units expected in the coming months. The French military’s program has faced delays due to technical issues, including a 2019 accident caused by a flight control system malfunction. Despite these challenges, the Patroller is expected to restore and enhance battlefield surveillance capabilities for the French Army. The Patroller, developed by Safran Electronics & Defense, is based on the Stemme ASP S15 airframe and first flew in 2009. It has an operational range of 150 km and can be equipped with a Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical sensor. The drone has been used for surveillance missions and is undergoing integration of laser-guided rockets for potential armament, with developments expected by 2026. The first 14 Patrollers acquired by France cost approximately 300 m euros, including 12 years of maintenance. The system is designed to provide intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition, with additional roles in maritime security and electronic warfare. In addition to Greece, Safran has been in discussions with Egypt and Vietnam regarding potential exports of the Patroller UAV. The company has established collaboration agreements for local assembly and training centers in Egypt. Vietnam has also explored acquiring the system as part of its efforts to enhance its intelligence and surveillance capabilities. The Patroller is a key component of Safran’s unmanned aerial vehicle portfolio, integrating advanced optronics, radar, and electronic warfare capabilities for modern battlefield operations. (Source: UAS VISION/Army Recognition)
18 Mar 25. Cuashub.com said today that Taiwan strengthens UAS development with new research agreement. Taiwan’s National Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) is set to sign a memorandum of understanding with National Taiwan University, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, and National Formosa University on Wednesday. The agreement aims to integrate industry, academic and research capabilities to advance the country’s UAS sector. According to NCSIST, the collaboration marks a major milestone for Taiwan’s UAS industry. The research initiative is expected to accelerate technological advancements, foster talent development and align industry growth with economic expansion. Given the high consumption rate of UAS, NCSIST emphasized the importance of autonomous production capabilities to ensure long-term sustainability. Taiwan is also expanding its UAS infrastructure with plans to establish a second UAS center in Chiayi. This facility, along with the existing Asia UAV Innovation Center and Minxiong Aerospace Industrial Park, aims to enhance industrial clustering and position Chiayi as a key hub for drone development. Once completed, the Minxiong Aerospace Industrial Park will provide private companies with space to expand manufacturing and offer Original Design Manufacturer and Original Equipment Manufacturer services. By integrating military, civilian and academic research efforts, the park is expected to strengthen Taiwan’s UAS development capabilities. Deputy Premier Cheng Li-chun recently outlined five strategies to establish a secure and democratic drone supply chain in Taiwan. She highlighted the impact of geopolitical shifts on global supply chains, positioning Taiwan’s UAV industry as a critical player in ensuring reliable and secure production networks. https://cuashub.com/en/content/taiwan-strengthens-uas-development-with-new-research-agreement/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
18 Mar 25. Cuashub.com said today that AeroDefense launches AirWarden drone detection system. AeroDefense has introduced AirWarden Essentials, a drone detection system designed to provide cost-effective airspace monitoring through networked Remote ID broadcasts. The system aims to enhance situational awareness for organizations concerned about unauthorized drone activity. AirWarden Essentials operates using a small receiver, which can be installed on a building or pole within ten minutes. The device connects to a cloud-based command console via LTE or ethernet, offering users real-time drone and pilot location alerts through text, email and on-screen notifications. One of the system’s key features is its ability to provide regional live monitoring, allowing organizations to track drones across multiple locations from a single interface. Users can analyze drone flight patterns and behaviors through the ‘history view’ function, while a built-in search feature enables quick retrieval of past drone events based on specific identifiers. The technology is based on AeroDefense’s Collaborative Drone Detection Network, developed under a Department of Defense contract. It allows multiple agencies to share a common operational picture, improving coordination in responding to potential drone threats. The University of Mississippi was the first to deploy AirWarden Essentials. Craig Wilmoth, Emergency Management Coordinator for the university’s campus police, noted that the system has successfully identified every drone flying on campus since installation. As concerns over unauthorized drone activity grow, solutions like AirWarden Essentials offer organizations a means to monitor their airspace and develop proactive security measures. https://cuashub.com/en/content/aerodefense-launches-airwarden-drone-detection-system/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
14 Mar 25. US Army to commence C-UAS training and systems assessment programme in Germany. The US Army will soon begin the next phase of Transforming in Contact (TiC) 2.0, the service’s initiative to revamp how units rapidly equip, test and acquire technology such as counter-drone systems in a changing battlefield. During a training rotation in Hohenfels, Germany over the next six to nine months, soldiers from the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) will receive new, next generation equipment and be trained in counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS), electromagnetic decoys and the integration of UAS. The training will serve as preparation for Combined Resolve 2026, a joint, multinational exercise. In TiC, soldiers can directly impact the development of next generation weapons by providing feedback which the Army channels into capability documents. TiC participation will be organised into four phases. The 1st ABCT starts by changing “how it fights” with a greater focus on lethality and survivability while taking and integrating greater input from modern conflict data. Second, the soldiers will integrate the existing technology including UAS and C-UAS. Next, the new equipment will dictate how the unit organises its formations. Finally, the 1st ABCT will continually look for opportunities to integrate new technology when it becomes available. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
12 Mar 25. Drone Rodeo 2025 to feature live C-UAS demonstrations. Drone Rodeo 2025 will take place at the Constellis Training Center (CTC) on June 3, 2025, in Moyock, North Carolina. This uncrewed systems industry day is a public event which will feature live demonstrations of uncrewed systems as well as counter-drone, LIDAR, remote sensors and communications technologies plus Constellis’ Layered Extended Security Operations (LEXSO) platform. The event will also bring together operators to explore the latest developments and discuss how these technologies are supporting security and defence operations. The CTC is a 3,600-acre proving ground featuring a 2,600-foot runway, airfield, multi-use shooting ranges, driving track, and training capabilities. Drone Rodeo 2025 is open to anyone 18 years or older. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
11 Mar 25. US Department of Homeland Security C-UAS tests underway in National Capital Region. The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate is conducting counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) tests in the National Capital Region (NCR) this week. From March 10-15, multiple short-duration drone flights will be launched from designated sites to assess C-UAS technology capabilities. The team has coordinated and approved testing locations within the NCR with all stakeholders. Participating agencies include the US Secret Service, Federal Protective Service and local agencies through the National Capital Region Command Center. The test activities are closely coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and comply with the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107) such as the drone remaining within direct line-of-sight of the pilot and operating at altitudes that do not exceed 400 feet above ground level. FAA Part 107 certified pilots will conduct the flights in compliance with all Part 107 requirements. DHS said law enforcement officers will accompany all drone teams. No test activity will occur at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport but the test coordinator will maintain real-time communication with the airport’s air traffic control for awareness. This test follows DHS’ notice of proposed action to evaluate C-UAS technologies against simulated threats. The agency says that no data on non-test drones in the area will be intentionally collected or retained. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
11 Mar 25. UAS Denmark Test Center hosts multi-sensor C-UAS test exercises. The UAS Denmark Test Center has shared progress from the second phase of the NextGen Robotics drone project. As part of the counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) project, red-blue team exercises have been conducted at the test centre at Hans Christian Andersen Airport, including the deployment of integrated sensors on a common platform. The exercises are a further step towards developing and testing an integrated multi-sensor C-UAS system. UAS Denmark Test Center is collaborating with Bionic System Solutions, Circle Scope, MyDefence, Quadsat, and Weibel Scientific, along with the University of Southern Denmark for the project. The Danish Business Promotion Agency is providing support.
“The red-blue team exercises have provided valuable insights and feedback, allowing us to refine our systems and enhance their effectiveness,” UAS Denmark Test Center said. “By simulating real-world scenarios, we ensure that our solutions are robust and ready to meet the challenges of modern airspace security.” (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
11 Mar 25. US military tests C-sUAS capabilities in jungle terrain. More than 30 Air Force Reserve Defenders recently tested their ability to detect, track, and neutralise small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) threats during Exercise NEXUS FORGE at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. The February 5 event saw Citizen Airmen train alongside the US Army’s 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, using electronic warfare tools such as the Dronebuster, DroneDefender, DroneShield, and DroneGun—navigation-frequency jamming systems designed to disrupt enemy drone control links. These tools force hostile drones to either land or return to their point of origin, preventing adversaries from gathering intelligence or launching attacks. The training also incorporated the Titan C-UAS monitoring system, which provides real-time intelligence on drone activity by detecting sUAS quantity, distance, and speed. This layered defence approach integrates electronic countermeasures with kinetic responses and traditional base defence assets. The event provided an opportunity to test C-UAS readiness in difficult terrain. “We’ve been stuck in the desert for so long,” said Master Sgt. Christopher Whalen, 349th Security Forces Squadron NCO in charge of readiness and training. Now it’s time to transition a bit. We’re looking at this thick, vast jungle—how do we see our enemies? How do we detect them inbound when there’s so much cover and concealment? Here, we’re getting an opportunity to do that.” (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
16 Mar 25. US Air Force seeks ground-air, air-air C-UAS capabilities against small drones. The US Department of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center has issued a Request for Information (RFI) from sources that have counter-UAS capabilities against drone groups 2/3 (can identify capability across other UAS groups). According to the RFI: “The capability must be ground-to-air or air-to-air employed. This capability may be autonomous or pseudo autonomous. This capability must have the ability to demonstrate All-Up Round capability at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) six (6) no later than 30 June 2025.
“EBD requires an effective and cost efficient air-to-air weapon system. Submittal of a ROM is not mandatory but highly encouraged. Describe government furnished support/equipment required for demonstration. All respondents must provide a capability statement detailing their ability to deliver the specified products or have the business relationships to fulfill the requirements. Capability statements shall address the following items:
“1. Design Maturity. Describe current TRL of your design. Describe any ground testing conducted of system components. Describe any flight testing conducted of system components. Is the design tested against MIL-STD-810 environmental requirements? Is the design ready to transition to production? Describe the employment environment (e.g. min/max range, altitude etc.) Seeker characteristics (size, new fuze or existing, etc.)
“2. Safety/Lethality Assessments. If design has explosives, provide experience with MILSTD-1316 requirements. Experience with AF/Navy safety processes in accordance with DAFI 91-205 and OPNAVINST 8020.14B. Have explosive devices been used in other DOD operational systems? Has arena testing been conducted on the warhead? Is lethality data available against the target set (drone groups 2/3)?
“3. Logistics. Experience with AF/Navy munitions packaging, handling, and storage requirements. Experience with developing technical data source material. Are CFR 49 qualified containers available for transporting and storing the system and/or components?
“4. Airworthiness (Air-to-Air Only). Experience with AF/Navy airworthiness requirements. Has the system or similar system flown on AF/Navy platforms, either in test or operationally? Are there any other DOD systems this has been integrated on? Has the weapon been fielded operationally? If so, provide full details to each question for this section.
“5. Manufacturing Maturity. Do you have the capability to manufacture this product? At what Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) has this been demonstrated? Would it be manufactured in the U.S.? What is the current maximum production capacity per month? Describe ability to increase capacity, if any, along with tooling and ROM to achieve increases up to 2,000 units/year. Address willingness to provide Unlimited/Gov’t Purpose Rights on the design for the Gov’t to pursue other/additional manufacturing sources.
“6. Support Equipment: Is support equipment required (list type, quantities, and cost)? Provide ratio of weapon units to support equipment.
“7. Maintenance: If periodic maintenance is required, please state the interval. If maintenance is not required, please specify. Is shelf life a part of maintainability?”
For more information: https://media.licdn.com/dms/document/media/v2/D4E1FAQGgY0EnNdfDew/feedshare-document-pdf-analyzed/B4EZWa0c.cH0AY-/0/1742059198997?e=1743033600&v=beta&t=VXdQ-XZ27SbZr-7xAUxmRS3odQeTt6en9NHuLZY_bSE (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
11 Mar 25. US Air Force issues RFI for C-sUAS technologies. The United States Air Force (USAF), Acquisition Management and Integration Center, in support of the Headquarters Air Combat Command’s Future Operations Division, is seeking information regarding vendors that can provide counter-small uncrewed aerial system (C-sUAS) capabilities. Issued on March 10, the request for information (RFI) says that USAF requires a C-sUAS that is fully developed and ready to deploy to multiple installations now and that the system must be scalable to at least five installations.
“The Air Force requires a radar and or acoustic detection system, EO/IR sensors to slew and cue systems, RF counter capability systems, and a C2 open infrastructure integration system that will effectively locate, track, identify, and defeat UAS operating over AF installations,” the RFI states.
“The Air Force is also interested in C-sUAS that include defeat options such as directed energy and low collateral effects interceptors (drone-on-drone). The C-sUAS required capabilities include ability to locate, track, identify, defeat up to 3,500 ft AGL. It is highly desirable that the C-sUAS can integrate with and is interoperable with other C-sUAS systems. Desired capabilities include AI and Machine Learning, UAS Radar up to 8-10 km, Electro Optical/Infrared cameras with slew to cue, effective RF and counter GPS/PNT capability, and open infrastructure C2 system to pull elements together in a fused system.”
Interested parties are requested to respond by 09:00 EDT on March 17. For more information: https://sam.gov/opp/9814140af51e45f59f3386bb377b8462/view (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
14 Mar 25. EUROCONTROL and EUROCAE reinforce standardisation cooperation as air traffic evolves. The directors of EUROCONTROL and EUROCAE have signed an updated Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) aimed at strengthening the organisations’ partnership in the areas of aviation regulation and standardisation as air traffic management evolves. This renewed agreement, announced on March 14 and signed by EUROCONTROL’s Director General, Raúl Medina and EUROCAE’s Director General, Anna von Groote, supersedes the previous MoC that was signed in 2021.
“The updated MoC provides a framework for expanded cooperation, particularly in the development of European aviation standards and the creation of standardisation roadmaps that support the broader goals of the aviation sector,” the organisations said in a joint press release. “Through this renewed partnership, both organisations aim to further enhance aviation’s safety, efficiency and interoperability in support of the European and international aviation community.”
“Standards are the cornerstone of innovation in ATM,” von Groote said. “They provide the essential framework that enables the development, integration and widespread adoption of cutting-edge technologies. These standards are vital in ensuring safety, fostering global interoperability, and promoting international harmonisation. EUROCAE is delighted to continue our partnership with EUROCONTROL in this key area, aiming to maximise synergies and collectively contribute to the sustainable advancement of the aviation industry.”
“This new Memorandum of Cooperation is a testament to our ongoing commitment to collaborate on standardisation matters that are fundamental to the aviation sector,” said Medina. “Robust and timely standards are vital to ensuring that European aviation remains safe, efficient and sustainable – both now and in the future. As air traffic management continues to evolve, the need for standards will only grow, and this partnership will help ensure that we meet those needs with agility and foresight. By aligning our efforts and expertise, avoiding duplication and capitalising on synergies, together we are reinforcing our joint effort in supporting European aviation.” (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
10 Mar 25. US government is “considering its financial support to ICAO.” According to a US State Department spokesperson in response to an Unmanned Airspace question: “Funding for ICAO, along with other international organizations, is currently under review.” The USA is a major contributor to the agency. According to US State Department figures, the US government contributed over USD22m to ICAO in FY2023. But earlier this month the State Department issued a strongly worded statement objecting to the recommendation by ICAO’s Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) on proceeding with work on the sustainable aviation fuel programme.
“The United States strongly objects to a recommendation on “sustainable” aviation fuels made during the 13th triennial meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP),” said the statement. “This recommendation to the ICAO Council on multi-cropping, the practice of growing two or more crops on the same land, for sustainable aviation fuels, would unfairly penalize U.S. farmers and significantly benefit Brazil over the rest of the world. The U.S. government believes this proposal is premature and lacks sufficient technical or scientific justification. Despite these issues, CAEP adopted the recommendation, harming U.S. farmers and the aviation industry, while increasing incentives for deforestation of threatened tropical forests.”
The Trump administration has withdrawn from several United Nations agencies in the past few weeks. In February the US government announced it was pulling out of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHRC) agency, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation and in March withdrew from the United Nations climate damage fund established in 2023 to help developing countries most vulnerable to climate change when natural disasters strike.
It is not yet clear whether the US government’s review will result in a partial pull-out of some ICAO programmes, a continuation in funding or a full withdrawal. In 2019 the State Department announced it was refusing to pay at least some of its dues to ICAO because organization had not effectively implemented new protections for whistleblowers. The final paragraph in the State Department on the CAEP recommendation struck a more conciliatory note: “We deeply appreciate the hard work by ICAO, and the co-chairs and co-facilitators of CAEP and its working groups, in organizing the CAEP session in Montreal this month.” More information will be published when it becomes available.
For more information: https://2021-2025.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/FY23-Annex-U.S.-Contributions-to-International-Organizations-508-Compliant-12_4_2024.pdf/https://www.state.gov/united-states-objects-to-sustainable-aviation-fuels-recommendation-at-international-civil-aviation-organization-meeting/https://subscriber.politicopro.com/article/2019/11/state-confirms-us-holding-back-money-from-icao-3974366/https://geneva.usmission.gov/2025/02/05/executive-order-on-certain-un-organizations-and-all-international-organizations/ (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
17 Mar 25. Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, introduced high-lumen, multi-fuel versions of its TLR-8® and TLR-8® sub lines of laser-equipped weapon-mounted lights, featuring up to 1,000 lumens of brightness and a longer-reaching beam to maximize visibility and targeting capability. All the new models give users the choice of using either a cost-saving SL-B9® USB-C rechargeable battery pack or a CR123A lithium battery, depending on availability or user preference. They also offer convenient, front-loading battery replacement without having to remove the light from the firearm. The new lights include the TLR-8® HL-X with red laser and the TLR-8® HL-X G with green laser for full-size and compact railed handguns, and the TLR-8® HL-X sub with red laser and the TLR-8® HL-X G sub with green laser, available to fit select GLOCK®, SIG SAUER®, Springfield Armory®, and many 1913 short railed subcompact handguns. All models offer customizable rear paddle switches to match users’ shooting styles.
“Law enforcement, military, tactical, and other users will appreciate these newest additions to the growing family of TLR rail-mounted lights that are rechargeable, but also provide the option of using disposable batteries,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah. “Because the lights are high-lumen, they produce sweeping bright light, while also delivering an intense down-range beam, which is ideal for room clearing, search operations, or other pursuits under low-light conditions. And users have their choice of red aiming laser models or green laser versions for improved focus during daylight.”
The TLR-8 HL-X and TLR-8 HL-X G feature a high-power LED and either a 640-660nm red or 510-530nm green laser. They deliver 1,000 lumens, 22,000 candela, a beam distance of 297 meters, and a run time of 30 minutes (default) or 500 lumens, 11,000 candela, a beam distance of 210 metres, and a run time of 1 hour (programmable) when using an SL-B9 battery pack. With a CR123A battery inserted, the lights provide 500 lumens,11,000 candela, a beam distance of 210 metres, and a run time of 1.5 continuous hours. The TLR-8 HL-X sub and the TLR-8 HL-X G sub also feature a high-power LED, as well as either a 640-660nm red or 510-530nm green laser. They are each available in four different models to fit GLOCK® 43X MOS/48 MOS and GLOCK® 43X/48 Rail subcompact handguns; the SIG SAUER® P365® and P365® XL; the Springfield Armory® Hellcat®; and select 1913 short railed subcompact handguns including the Smith & Wesson® M&P® M2.0®, Beretta® Px4 Storm, Springfield Armory® XD-E™, XD-S® and Hellcat® Pro, Heckler & Koch® HK45 and SIG SAUER® P365® XMACRO. They provide 1,000 lumens, 10,000 candela, a beam distance of 200 metres, and a run time of 30 minutes (default) or 500 lumens, 5,000 candela, a beam distance of 141 metres, and a run time of 1 hour (programmable) when using an SL-B9 battery pack. Using a CR123A battery, they deliver 500 lumens, 5,000 candela, a beam distance of 141 metres, and a run time of 1.5 continuous hours. All new TLR-8 HL-X and TLR-8 HL-X sub models come with Streamlight’s SL-B9 protected lithium-ion 850mAh battery pack that is rechargeable up to 500 cycles and charges via a USB-C port on the battery or optional bank charger. Securely fitting to a broad range of weapons (using the provided key kit), the new lights feature a one-handed, snap on and tighten interface that keeps hands away from gun muzzles when attaching or detaching them. The lights also include a “safe-off” feature, locking them so they cannot be turned on accidentally. The TLR-8 HL-X models each weigh 89 grams with the SL-B9 and 86.1 grams with a disposable battery. They measure 7.3cm in length. The TLR-8 HL-X sub models weigh 81.3 grams with an SL-B9 and 78.5 grams with a lithium battery; they are 6.3cm long. The new lights are constructed with impact-resistant 6000 Series machined aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish and feature an IPX4-rated design for water-resistant operation. Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, has launched multi-fuel models of its TLR-8® line of laser-equipped tactical weapon lights, designed to provide extreme brightness in tactical situations, while also offering users USB or disposable battery options. The new lights include the TLR-8® X with red laser and the TLR-8 X® G with green laser for full-size and compact railed handguns, and the TLR-8® X sub with red laser and the TLR-8® X G sub with green laser, available to fit select GLOCK®, SIG SAUER®, Springfield Armory®, and many 1913 short railed subcompact handguns. All models of these new lights deliver 500 lumens and offer customizable rear switches that provide ambidextrous operation.
“These new lights, like their originals, are designed to maximize shooters’ weapon platforms in a variety of home defense and tactical applications,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah. “The red laser models maximize visibility and long-range targeting capability, while the green laser versions improve users’ ability to focus on targets during daylight, as the colour green appears brighter to the human eye than other colored lasers. And all models are multi-fuel, giving users the choice of using either a CR123A lithium battery or Streamlight’s cost-saving SL-B9® USB-C rechargeable battery pack, depending on availability or user preference.”
Each of the new lights uses a high-power white LED that delivers 5,000 candela and 500 lumens over 141 metres and features a custom optic with a focused beam that optimizes peripheral illumination. The TLR-8 X and TLR-8 X sub include a 640-660nm red aiming laser, while the TLR-8 X G and TLR-8 X G sub feature a 510-530nm green aiming laser. All are powered by either one 3-volt CR123A lithium battery or one 850mAh Li-Ion USB-C rechargeable SL-B9 battery pack which charges via a USB-C cord or optional bank charger. Both types of batteries can be installed or removed through the face cap, eliminating the need to remove the light from the weapon. The new models offer three lighting modes, LED Only, LED/Laser Combined, and Laser Only. Run times are 1.5 hours in LED Only or LED/Laser mode and 60 hours in Laser Only mode using a CR123A battery. With the SL-B9 battery pack inserted, run times are one hour in LED Only or LED/Laser mode and 36 hours on the Laser Only setting. These lights feature a one-handed, snap on and tighten interface that keeps hands away from gun muzzles when attaching or detaching them. A key kit is also included to securely fit the lights to the broadest array of handguns of any light on the market. The new models are constructed with 6000 Series machined aircraft aluminum with a black anodized finish and feature a BOROFLOAT® impact and scratch-resistant lens. The TLR-8 X and TLR-8 X G each weigh 74.8 grams with a disposable battery, and 77.6 grams with the SL-B9 battery pack; they measure 6.5cm in length. Using a disposable battery, the TLR-8 X sub and TLR-8 X G sub models each weigh 78.5 grams, and 81.3 grams with the SL-B9 battery pack inserted. They are 6.3cm in length. Featuring impact-resistant construction, the new models have an IPX4-rated design for water-resistant operation. Both the TLR-8 X sub and the TLR-8 X G sub are available in four different models to fit GLOCK® 43X MOS/48 MOS and GLOCK® 43X/48 Rail subcompact handguns; the SIG SAUER® P365® and P365® XL; the Springfield Armory® Hellcat®; and select 1913 short railed subcompact handguns including the Smith & Wesson® M&P® M2.0®, Beretta® Px4 Storm, Springfield Armory® XD-E™, XD-S® and Hellcat® Pro; Heckler & Koch® HK45, and SIG SAUER® P365® XMACRO.
14 Mar 25. Hensoldt is Investing Millions in a New Radar Anechoic Chamber. Production capacity of SPEXER radars increased at the Ulm site. The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT is further expanding its production capacities. A new anechoic chamber for SPEXER radars has been put into operation at the Ulm site. The total investment volume amounts to more than one million euros. The SPEXER radar family offers high-performance surveillance radars for various ranges for automatic detection and classification of ground, sea and low-flying air targets. The SPEXER 2000 is part of the new Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defence vehicle from Rheinmetall Air Defence. It is also used in the German programs cUAS Feldlager (ASUL), qualified air defence, HoWiSM (high-energy laser for drone defence) and ‘Near and Very Short Range Air Defence System’ NNbS, among others. The measurement of AESA (Active Electronically Scanning Array) antennas is one of the most demanding high-frequency measurement methods for radar systems. The advantage of the new anechoic chamber is the fully automated data acquisition and analysis for far-field and near-field antenna measurements. In addition, the throughput time for measuring an antenna is reduced, making the process even more efficient.
“In view of geopolitical developments, the urgency of delivering products and solutions quickly and on a large scale is clearly noticeable,” says HENSOLDT Head of Production Gregor Schwab. “By expanding our capacities and switching to series production, we will more than triple the production of our SPEXER radars over the next three years.” (Source: ASD Network)
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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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