Sponsored by Echodyne
www.echodyne.com
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
24 Feb 26. Joint Interagency Task Force Announces Counter-UAS Marketplace. Joint Interagency Task Force 401 announced today that its revolutionary counter-unmanned aircraft systems marketplace has reached initial operational capability. The online platform, hosted on the common hardware systems electronic catalog, will revolutionize how the War Department and its interagency partners acquire critical counter-UAS technology. The marketplace streamlines the process for users to identify and procure the right equipment to meet their specific needs, featuring a growing catalog of validated counter-UAS systems and components, with plans to include performance data from the task force’s authoritative test and evaluation repository. It allows customers to compare systems based on real-world performance against a variety of threats and in different environments.
“The JIATF 401 -UAS marketplace is a critical step forward in our whole-of-government approach to countering the threat of small drones,” said Army Brig. Gen. Matthew Ross, JIATF 401 director. “Our goal is to integrate sensors, effectors and mission command systems into a responsive, interoperable network that protects service members and American citizens alike.”
The marketplace is built on an established indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract, enabling customers to place orders immediately and significantly reducing the lengthy contracting process typically associated with defense procurement. The common hardware systems website provides an intuitive interface for users to browse available equipment, review technical specifications and compare pre-negotiated contract options.
“Building and maintaining the -UAS marketplace has been a collaborative effort focused on delivering a user-friendly and effective tool for the warfighter,” said Army Maj. Matt Mellor, the lead acquisitions specialist assigned to JIATF 401. “We’ve worked to create a platform that not only simplifies the procurement process but also provides the crucial data and expert support necessary for our customers to make informed decisions. This is about getting the best technology into the hands of those who need it as quickly as possible.”
The marketplace is actively expanding its inventory to include all validated counter-UAS equipment not already designated as a program of record. The common hardware systems electronic catalog already lists over 1,600 items, demonstrating its capacity to support a comprehensive, growing selection of counter-UAS solutions.
Access to the marketplace is available to users throughout the War Department and interagency partners via a common access card or other government-issued smart card. (Source: U.S. DoD)
26 Feb 26. At Enforce Tac 2026, Aaronia AG demonstrated how its AARTOS DDS platform addresses these evolving threats through a fully integrated approach to detection, analysis, and electronic warfare. The strong interest from government, military, and industry representatives at this year’s event underscores a clear trend: the demand for scalable, multi-sensor systems capable of delivering reliable, real-time situational awareness across complex operational environments continues to rise.
Integrated Architectures for Real-Time Situational Awareness
A key takeaway from technical discussions at Enforce Tac 2026 is the shift away from standalone sensor solutions toward fully integrated, networked architectures. Modern operational scenarios require systems that can fuse data from multiple sources and generate a consistent, actionable situational picture in real time.
Aaronia’s AARTOS platform is designed to meet this requirement. Its modular architecture integrates RF detection, optional radar, EO/IR sensors, and electronic countermeasures within a unified system environment. Through advanced sensor fusion, AARTOS delivers precise detection, classification, and geolocation capabilities—even in dense and highly dynamic spectrum conditions.
At the core of the system is Aaronia’s RTSA Suite PRO, a high-performance software platform for near real-time wideband spectrum analysis. The software automatically identifies protocols, classifies signals, and visualizes threats with minimal latency, enabling operators to make rapid, informed decisions.
As a scalable software backbone, RTSA Suite PRO supports a wide range of applications—from mobile deployments to fixed, networked installations—and forms the basis for advanced SIGINT and electronic warfare operations.
End-to-End Electronic Warfare Capabilities
Beyond detection, electronic warfare capabilities are becoming increasingly critical for protecting critical infrastructure, large-scale events, and sensitive facilities. AARTOS addresses this need with a closed-loop, end-to-end approach that combines sensing, analysis, and electronic attack within a single system.
A key component is the programmable 360° Smart Jammer, which enables targeted and adaptive disruption of defined frequency bands or sectors. The system supports a wide range of operational effects, including:
- Neutralization of non-cooperative UAVs
- Suppression of unauthorized or malicious transmissions
- Mitigation of deceptive or manipulative RF signals
- Protection of critical communication channels
Leveraging wideband receivers, high sampling rates, and adaptive waveform generation, the jammer integrates seamlessly into existing AARTOS and broader EW architectures. In combination with RTSA Suite PRO, this enables a continuous workflow from detection and analysis to electronic attack—providing a decisive advantage in complex operational environments.
Strong Interest from Government, Military, and Industry
Feedback from Enforce Tac 2026 was overwhelmingly positive. Visitors from government agencies, armed forces, and industry highlighted the system’s technical depth, modularity, and integrated approach as key differentiators.
The need for solutions that not only provide comprehensive real-time situational awareness but also enable active countermeasures is growing rapidly across all sectors.
“Enforce Tac is one of our most important platforms for engaging directly with the professional community—from general stakeholders to highly specialized experts,” said Stephan Kraschansky, Chief Defense & Government Solutions Officer, Aaronia AG.
“We clearly see that demand for integrated C-UAS and electronic warfare solutions continues to accelerate. AARTOS is designed to meet this demand with a scalable, high-precision system architecture.”
Driving Innovation in Spectrum Operations and Counter-UAS
With continuous advancements in both hardware and software, Aaronia continues to position AARTOS as a leading solution in electromagnetic intelligence (SIGINT), counter-UAS, and electronic warfare.
The company’s focus on integrated system design, real-time data processing, and adaptive electronic attack capabilities reflects the increasing importance of spectrum dominance in modern security and defense operations.
25 Feb 26. US Army revamping its electronic warfare acquisition system. As the U.S. Army embarks on a massive reorganization of its acquisition agencies, it’s also changing the ways it acquires electronic warfare and signals intelligence systems. The problem is that “the Army lacks the ability to sense, locate, attack, and protect” across the electromagnetic spectrum, warned Gen. David Hodne, commander of Transformation and Training Command. This is partly the result of an acquisition system for electromagnetic spectrum operations, or EMSO, that is too fragmented.
“Currently, EMSO capabilities are spread across different warfighting functions and not fully designed as cohesive technologies that are modular, scalable, and adaptable enough to mitigate modern threats,” Hodne wrote in a January memo on the new EMSO concept of operations.
“This prevents the Army from truly leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) for quick decision making to exploit opportunities across the competition continuum.”
Thus, the Army is seeking feedback from industry on both the Army’s new concept of EMSO and a potential Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contract for procurement of EW and SIGINT equipment.
The Program Manager Electronic Warfare & Cyber “is exploring an acquisition strategy to provide commercially sourced, worldwide, end-to-end lifecycle management products for the Army’s portfolio of Electromagnetic Warfare (EW) and Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) systems,” according to the Army’s Request for Information. Responses are due by March 13.
Among the questions is whether industry is willing to invest money in order to deliver solutions more quickly.
“If the Government were to leverage multi-year procurement contracts, would vendors pay facilitation costs to increase production quantities or significantly improve production schedules for EW/SIGINT Equipment?” the RFI asked.
The Army also wants systems that are tailored for different types of users.
“Fielding a common basis of issue (BOI) across varied formations (e.g., heavy, light, airborne) has proven to be neither cost-effective nor optimal for ensuring battlefield lethality against modern, technologically advanced adversaries,” the RFI noted.
The Army is soliciting feedback on the EMSO concept of operations itself, including the desire for “industry partnerships” cited in the January memo.
“What partnership models would be most effective for the rapid development and fielding of EMSO capabilities?” the RFI asked.
Hodne’s memo envisions speeding up the fielding of new systems by having T2COM program managers work closely with Command and Control/Counter C2 Portfolio Acquisition Executive.
“This approach enables continuous integration and delivery of EMSO capabilities for operations in austere and DDIL [denied, disrupted, intermittent and limited-bandwidth] environments,” the memo said.
The memo also called for a variety of offensive and defensive electromagnetic capabilities, including protocol-based effects that target specific communications protocols, simultaneously identifying and locating multiple enemy emitters, and obscuring friendly electromagnetic signatures from enemy detection. EMSO systems should also have an open architecture that can be integrated with the Next-Generation Command-and-Control framework. (Source: Defense News)
26 Feb 26. Kongsberg Discovery is opening up access to one of the world’s most advanced underwater imaging technologies, with today’s market launch of the HISAS2020 synthetic aperture sonar. Previously available exclusively as part of integrated payloads on Kongsberg Discovery’s HUGIN AUV family, HISAS can now be implemented across any platform – including all relevant AUVs, USVs, ROVs and towed assets – delivering crystal-clear, centimetre-level resolution, robust system design for long-term reliability, and real-time data processing. The solution, suitable for a vast array of defence, energy and ocean science applications, will be officially showcased at Oceanology International in London in March.
Proven performance
As Espen Reinertsen, VP Mapping, Kongsberg Discovery, points out, the launch is particularly noteworthy as HISAS is already market proven across thousands of missions worldwide, with today’s solution actually representing the fourth generation of the breakthrough technology.
“It’s unique for an innovative solution to come to market with a proven track record of success across so many operational domains and applications,” comments Reinertsen. “The technology has matured through years of real-world use, in exceptionally demanding missions and operating conditions, giving HUGIN users imaging with resolutions many times higher than conventional sonar. We now believe the time is right to push those benefits out to a wider audience, enabling platform-independent deployment for the ultimate in flexibility, usability and consistently high quality results. This is a natural, and important, evolution for HISAS.”
Speed and precision
HISAS2020 operates in the 120–210 kHz frequency range, delivering ultra-high-resolution imagery, alongside co-registered bathymetry, in a single pass. A key advantage is its real-time, GPU-enabled processing architecture, allowing data to be processed on the fly, transforming raw acoustic returns into actionable insights during the mission itself, rather than through post-processing onshore. The result is faster decision-making, reduced survey time and increased operational efficiency.
For users, this means seeing more detail, detecting smaller objects, and understanding underwater environments with both greater confidence and speed — whether the task is seabed mapping, surveys of critical underwater infrastructure, or target identification.
Enabling confidence
The flexibility of HISAS2020 makes it relevant across a wide range of high value use cases.
Defence operators benefit from precise seabed awareness for mine countermeasures, harbour protection, search and rescue operations, and overall maritime domain awareness. Energy companies gain improved inspection capability for pipelines, cables and offshore assets, supporting both maintenance and integrity assessments. Ocean scientists and hydrographers can capture highly detailed maps of habitats, archaeological sites and geological features, enabling long-term monitoring and environmental research.
What unites these applications is the need for accuracy, reliability and consistency — qualities that have defined Kongsberg Discovery’s hydroacoustic portfolio for decades.
“Users want data they can trust, especially when operating in complex or sensitive environments,” Reinertsen adds. “HISAS2020 is about delivering that trust. It provides a complete picture in a single pass, reducing uncertainty and enabling better outcomes across missions.”
Gold standard for all
Kongsberg Discovery was among the first companies to bring synthetic aperture sonar into the commercial market, and HISAS has long been regarded as ‘the gold standard’ for high-end survey work. By opening access beyond the HUGIN ecosystem, the company is extending that legacy — while maintaining the performance and quality that made the system successful in the first place.
The standalone launch reflects Kongsberg Discovery’s broader commitment to platform-agnostic innovation and long-term partnerships with customers, enabling them to build solutions tailored to their specific operational needs.
Those wishing to experience HISAS2020 first hand can visit Kongsberg Discovery’s stand at Oceanology International, where specialists are available to discuss integration options, applications, and the vast potential of future developments.
To discover more please see https://www.kongsberg.com/discovery/
25 Feb 26. Rheinmetall Showcases C-UAS Remote-Controlled Weapon Station. Rheinmetall is showcasing the RCWS320C-UAS remote-controlled weapon station at Enforce Tac 2026 in Nuremberg. It is a latest-generation effector designed to protect vehicles and stationary infrastructure against drones, other unmanned aerial systems and other fast-moving targets. The modular system combines sensor fusion, automated target engagement, and hard-kill and soft-kill effectors, enabling situation-adaptive, scalable defence capabilities against aerial threats. In conjunction with the SEOSS-320 vision system, the RCWS320-UAS offers high precision and first-hit probability while providing the crew with full situational awareness. The weapon is a Dillon Aero M134D – the proven, electrically driven minigun with an extremely high rate of fire. The RCWS320-UAS complies with NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA) and is suitable as an effector for tracked and wheeled vehicles, unmanned platforms and fixed sites, ensuring reliable performance under demanding operational conditions. (Source: UAS VISION)
25 Feb 26. Cuashub.com said today that Mehler Protection unveils close-range C-UAS for land vehicles at Enforc.Tac. Mehler Protection has presented a new close-range counter-drone protection system, SCILT, at Enforce Tac 2026, positioning it as a last protective layer for land vehicles facing increasingly complex small drone threats. According to the company, SCILT is designed to address a growing operational challenge: uncrewed aerial systems approaching vehicles not only from above, but also from terrain features, ditches, flanks and rear sectors at very short distances. In these scenarios, reaction times are limited and traditional mobile air defense systems may struggle to detect and engage threats within the immediate close-in envelope.
A close-in protective layer
Mehler describes SCILT as a “dedicated last protective layer” intended to bridge the gap between larger mobile air defense systems and passive vehicle armor. The system is designed to counter small drones, including FPV systems, loitering munitions and so-called kamikaze drones, operating in close and very close-range engagements. The architecture combines effector modules, sensors and operating logic mounted directly on the vehicle. Sensor kits can include electro-optical and other close-range surveillance systems to support detection and operator decision-making. The system enables sector-based activation, allowing specific directions to be activated or deactivated depending on vehicle formation and movement.
SCILT incorporates three staged alert levels: detection alert, approach alert and trigger alert. In its initial version, the system uses a deliberate man-in-the-loop architecture, with further automation planned as procedures and approval processes evolve.
Scalable effectors and vehicle integration
Effector modules use commercially available shotgun-caliber ammunition, ranging from rubber projectiles to hardened-core, tungsten-carbide fragment and armor-piercing variants. Mehler states that this range enables scalable effects and controlled hazard areas, depending on the operational scenario.
The system connects through a vehicle data bus and can integrate into existing vehicle architectures. Where such interfaces are unavailable, SCILT can operate as a self-contained package with its own surveillance and control chain. Remote control units can be installed at multiple positions inside the vehicle. According to the company, development has been underway for approximately 18 months, during which 48 test campaigns were conducted. These included external and terminal ballistics trials, temperature behavior assessments, trigger reliability testing and fragment-density measurements to determine effective range parameters.
The first version of SCILT is expected to be available from summer 2026 as an effector package with sensor kits and control units that can be adapted to different vehicle configurations.
Mehler Protection unveils close-range C-UAS for land vehicles at Enforce Tac
(Source: https://cuashub.com/
25 Feb 26. Australia signs C-UAS research acceleration agreement with DroneShield. Australia’s Department of Defence (DoD) has signed an agreement with local company DroneShield to accelerate research and development of counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UASs) for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The DoD announced on 25 February that it has signed a three-year bilateral collaborative research agreement with DroneShield, which is intended to enable the DoD’s Defence Science and Technology Group and DroneShield to share technical information and test facilities to develop C-UASs.
The DoD said, “Research and development are the cornerstone of advancing next-generation defence capabilities, which are essential if Australia is to obtain a decisive edge in complex operational environments.
“Working together with industry to share counter-drone research delivers significant benefits for national security, helps drive innovation within the domestic defence sector, and helps ensure sovereign capability in an increasingly contested technological environment.”
The agreement follows the establishment of a C-UAS-industry panel in January 2026, which includes DroneShield among 27 other companies. At the time, the DoD said the panel will advise it and other government agencies on C-UAS solutions that are effective against small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The new panel was set up to support the DoD’s Land 156 project, which was launched in February 2025 to establish a layered and distributed C-UAS capability intended to enable the ADF to detect, track, identify, and neutralise small UAVs. (Source: Janes)
24 Feb 26. Diehl Defence unveils AI-enabled GARMR mobile C-UAS system at Enforce Tac. Diehl Defence has unveiled a relaunch of its mobile counter-UAS system at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg, introducing an updated platform under the new name GARMR. Previously known as the Kinetic Defence Vehicle, the system has been rebranded as GARMR, a reference to a watchdog from Nordic mythology. The relaunch includes the integration of new interceptor drone types and an artificial intelligence-supported detection and decision-making architecture. According to the company, GARMR has been developed as a hybrid, modular system designed for a wide range of applications. It is intended for the protection of critical civilian infrastructure, such as public buildings and major events, as well as deployment in high-intensity military combat environments. The system incorporates two interceptor drone configurations. The GARMR SRS (Short Range System) deploys the CICADA interceptor drone, which can be equipped with either a capture net or a warhead. The GARMR MRS (Medium Range System) uses additional interceptor drones designed to engage targets at greater distances. Diehl Defence said further effectors can be integrated across both configurations to tailor the system to specific operational requirements. A central feature of the update is the introduction of AI-supported detection, identification and prioritization capabilities. The system uses algorithms to analyze sensor data, classify aerial threats and support operator decision-making. The company states that the detection suite is designed to identify a broad spectrum of targets, ranging from small commercial multicopters to larger military drone systems such as Shahed- and Lancet-type loitering munitions. By combining detection sensors, identification modules and interceptor drones on a highly mobile platform, GARMR is positioned as a self-contained counter-UAS solution. The relaunch at Enforce Tac 2026 highlights Diehl Defence’s focus on expanding its mobile air defense and counter-drone portfolio amid growing demand for layered protection against unmanned threats.
Diehl Defence unveils AI-enabled GARMR mobile C-UAS system at Enforce Tac
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
24 Feb 26. JIATF-401 leads C-UAS exercise to strengthen defense of National Capital Region. Joint Interagency Task Force 401 took part this week in a multi-day Counter-sUAS Threat Simulation Exercise aimed at strengthening defenses across the National Capital Region. The exercise brought together base defense forces from Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and senior leaders from Joint Task Force–National Capital Region, the Combat Capabilities Development Command and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. The event was designed to test and evaluate emerging counter-drone technologies under realistic operational conditions.
Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, director of JIATF-401, visited the exercise on Feb. 18 and observed teams conducting a series of simulated drone incidents. The scenarios included dozens of mock sUAS incursions using multiple drone types to evaluate 11 sensor systems and three mitigation devices. Events were conducted during both daytime and nighttime operations to replicate real-world conditions.
“The threats we face are constantly evolving, and exercises like this are critical to ensuring we stay ahead of our adversaries,” Ross said during the visit. He added that observing advanced counter-drone technologies in action increased confidence in the region’s ability to defend key assets.
A central focus of the exercise was interoperability, ensuring that systems and personnel from multiple agencies could operate together effectively. Officials said data gathered during the event will help refine the National Capital Region’s multi-layered counter-UAS defense strategy.
Col. Brian Reynolds, provost marshal of Joint Task Force–National Capital Region, emphasized the collaborative nature of the effort.
“This training is about more than just technology; it’s about people and partnerships,” Reynolds said. He noted that the participation of interagency, federal, state and local law enforcement partners is intended to build a unified and coordinated defense structure.
The National Capital Region encompasses Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas in Maryland and Virginia, home to key government facilities, military installations and critical infrastructure. Officials said continued joint training and technology testing are essential to maintaining readiness against potential aerial threats.
JIATF-401 and its partner organizations stated they will continue to focus on innovation, joint training and the integration of advanced counter-drone capabilities to enhance homeland defense.
JIATF-401 leads C-UAS exercise to strengthen defense of National Capital Region
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
24 Feb 26. Kongsberg Discovery has strengthened its multibeam echosounder portfolio with the launch of two new EM2042 variants, extending high-performance seabed mapping capability from surface vessels to deepwater platforms and naval operations. The new EM2042 DR600 and EM2042 BNS build on the market proven EM2042 platform, sharing its successful next-generation acoustic architecture, while addressing two distinct operational needs: deep-rated subsea vehicles (spanning platforms from AUVs, ROVs, ROTVS to submarines) and demanding naval environments. Both products will be showcased at Oceanology International in London, giving visitors the opportunity to explore how Kongsberg Discovery continues to push boundaries in underwater sensing innovation.
Data deep dives
The EM2042 DR600 offers the same market leading performance as the standard EM 2042 but is engineered specifically for underwater vehicles and deep unmanned platforms. With a depth rating of 600m, thanks to pressure resistant titanium housing and subsea-qualified electronics, the system delivers ultra-high-resolution mapping in a lightweight, energy-efficient package optimised for subsea vehicles with limited power budgets. Its vehicle agnostic design and single cable connectivity offer flexible, simple integration, while its unique dual RX and single TX configuration enables up to 220° swath coverage on subsea platforms. Other stand-out features include multi‑transmitter/multisector technology, with full 4D motion compensation for precise mapping, even on manoeuvring vehicles, and QuadSwath ready technology for increased coverage and faster operations.
“EM2042 DR600 brings world class depth-rated performance in a vehicle agnostic package suitable for a huge range of applications,” comments Jose Cordero, Product Manager, Kongsberg Discovery. “It gives operators a new capacity to dive deeper, especially with autonomous assets, and achieve ultra-high-resolution mapping results with speed and precision they can trust. This is an exciting development the market has been calling out for.”
Built tough
Complementing the DR600 is EM2042 BNS, a naval-optimised multibeam solution developed to enable optimal underwater domain awareness, critical infrastructure protection, rapid environment assessments and a wide range of defence applications.
Built for harsh environments, with military-grade robustness, the BNS variant combines high-resolution bathymetry with co-registered backscatter, enabling accurate seabed modelling, change detection and target tracking in the water column. Its wideband frequency coverage (150-700 kHz) and advanced motion stabilisation, deliver precise mapping even on fast-moving or unstable platforms, while a single-cable architecture simplifies installation and reduces topside complexity – particularly valuable for submarine and naval integrations.
The result is a light, limber and capable system that supports faster operations, improved mission efficiency, and confident decision making, when it matters most.
“EM2042 BNS sets a new standard for naval seabed mapping and navigation,” Cordero adds. “It pairs unmatched acoustic performance with the robustness and stability required for demanding defence environments, giving users the confidence to meet demands and address challenges, from wide-area awareness to high-resolution inspection.”
Customer at the core
Both EM2042 DR600 and EM2042 BNS demonstrate Kongsberg Discovery’s ambition to continually evolve and improve its product portfolio to meet the challenges of an ever-changing, increasingly unpredictable operational environment.
“Everything we do is driven by our ambition to enable customer success,” Cordero concludes. “These new EM2042 variants demonstrate how we listen to the market and respond with practical, high-performance solutions – whether that’s enabling autonomous operations at depth or enhancing situational awareness for naval platforms. Our mission is to keep pushing what’s possible underwater, helping users work smarter, safer and with greater confidence.”
Visitors to Oceanology International will be able to experience both new EM2042 models firsthand and speak with Kongsberg Discovery specialists about integration options, applications and future developments across defence, energy and ocean science.
To discover more please see https://www.kongsberg.com/discovery/
About Kongsberg Discovery
Kongsberg Discovery develops advanced technology to explore the ocean, manufacturing acoustic instruments for seabed mapping at various depths. The company is part of Kongsberg Gruppen ASA, a Norwegian multinational corporation that supplies high-technology systems to customers in the merchant marine, defense, aerospace, offshore oil and gas industries, and renewable and utilities industries.
24 Feb 26. BAE Systems has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with defence firm Frankenburg Technologies to explore collaboration opportunities, with an initial focus on addressing the growing challenges of drone warfare. Both companies will explore opportunities to combine their expertise to accelerate the development of warheads for Frankenburg’s intended mass producible, low-cost missile systems for use in counter drone operations, as well as exploring other future technologies for development.
Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Maritime & Land Defence Solutions business, said: “Collaborating with innovative companies like Frankenburg Technologies enables us to accelerate the development of advanced, affordable solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. By bringing together our proven munitions expertise with Frankenburg’s disruptive missile technology, we’re helping to deliver the next generation of counter‑drone capability at pace to stay ahead of emerging threats.”
Dan Hallett, Managing Director of Frankenburg Technologies, said: “This partnership marks a powerful step forward for the UK defence ecosystem. By bringing together Frankenburg’s agility and rapid innovation with BAE Systems’ scale, industrial depth and global reach, together we’re creating the conditions for new technologies to move from concept to capability far faster. I am proud that this MoU further highlights the UK as a place where SMEs and primes can collaborate to deliver the next generation of sovereign capability.”
This collaboration is part of BAE Systems’ wider work harnessing its established industrial scale and defence expertise to support disruptive small and medium-sized enterprises in driving technological advancement and performance at pace.
24 Feb 26. Northrop Grumman Proposes Cannon-Based Air Defence System for US Army Drone Threat. Northrop Grumman is advancing its Cannon-Based Air Defense (CBAD) concept as a scalable response to the growing threat of drone swarms and low-flying cruise missiles targeting U.S. Army formations. CBAD integrates guided medium-caliber cannon ammunition with layered radar and electro-optical sensors, all connected through battle management command-and-control networks. Rather than functioning as a standalone gun system, it is designed as a fully networked defensive architecture combining battle-proven automatic cannons, advanced ammunition, surveillance radars, electro-optical trackers, and digital fire-control systems. This integration enables coordinated terminal defense against massed aerial attacks. The concept emphasizes cost-effective engagement. By relying on precision-guided cannon projectiles instead of expensive missile interceptors, CBAD aims to provide sustained short-range air defense against large-volume, low-cost threats. The approach reflects Army concerns that missile-based defenses could face financial and logistical strain during prolonged, high-intensity conflicts. A key enabler is guided ammunition. Unlike traditional programmable airburst rounds that detonate at a preset time, guided cannon projectiles perform in-flight trajectory corrections toward aerial targets. Fired in controlled salvos, these munitions extend engagement range and significantly improve probability of kill against maneuvering unmanned aircraft systems and low-flying cruise missiles. In effect, the concept transforms the cannon from a purely ballistic area weapon into a maneuver-capable short-range interceptor. While full performance data has not been publicly released, CBAD builds on existing medium-caliber systems such as the 30 mm XM813 Bushmaster chain gun mounted on Stryker M-SHORAD vehicles, which fires at roughly 200 rounds per minute with typical air defense ranges of 2–3 kilometers. Larger 35 mm systems, common in European service, can exceed 4 kilometers, delivering greater fragment mass and extended terminal coverage. (Source: UAS VISION)
23 Feb 26. Jugapro unveils counter-drone swarm system. Jugapro of India has developed a new counter-drone system to address the threat posed by small drones. The Skyner M5K features Trueview R40i active electronically scanned array radar panels, which offer 360-degree coverage for real-time surveillance at ranges in excess of 40km. Jugapro says the system is suitable across diverse terrains, from urban environments to remote borders and for applications such as safeguarding critical infrastructure, such as airports. The product launch has been covered in Indian defence media with Indian Defence News reporting that the system “addresses the escalating proliferation of low-cost, swarming drones used in asymmetric warfare”. Skyner M5K includes a smart jammer module, which deploys adaptive electronic warfare tactics designed to disrupt drone communications, GPS signals and control links without collateral interference. It incorporates AI-driven algorithms that analyse drone signatures rapidly, selecting optimal frequencies for denial-of-service attacks. The system also has spoofing and geofencing capabilities, according to media reports. Field trials have demonstrated the system’s efficacy against Group 1 and Group 2 drones, achieving interception rates above 95 per cent. Indian Defence News reports that production scaling is underway, with partnerships involving Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for mass manufacturing and quality assurance. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
16 Feb 26. India seeks net-capture ‘drone catcher’ system. India’s Ministry of Defence has issued an urgent Request for Information (RFI) for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) equipped with nets to neutralise rogue drones. The RFI details a three-part system comprising a drone sensor, drone catcher and ground control station. According to the RFI, systems should be able to deploy independently or in conjunction with in-service air defence weapon systems and other C-UAS weapon systems in challenging terrains. They must be capable of surveillance, detection and tracking as well as targeting and deploying a net capture system. The drone sensor, which the RFI says should be based on electronically scanned array technology or better, should be able to “detect the target drones all around with a minimum detection, tracking capability of 20 drones/ and UAS simultaneously”. In addition, “the drone sensor should be able to detect, track and prioritise and thereafter designate the hostile targets to the drone catcher through a ground control station.” The ground control station will feed information, data received from the drone sensor to the drone catcher remotely via a data link. In addition, “a jammer subsystem shall provide electronic attack capabilities against hostile UAS, including RF denial, selective GNSS denial, and GNSS deception, across standard and non-standard frequency bands,” the RFI continues. “The system shall support controlled and selective application of soft-kill measures and be capable of operating concurrently with hard-kill effectors without mutual interference.” (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
18 Feb 26. Canada’s DARIT Technologies wins CAD1 m award for its REMPART C-UAS system. DARIT Technologies, a Canadian specialist in fusion-driven solutions for Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS) and advanced ground-perimeter security, has announced that it has been awarded first place and a CAD1 m prize at the IDEaS (Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security) Urban Sandbox, held in November 2025 in Ottawa.
“The award was officially presented to DARIT by Canada’s Minister of National Defence, David McGuinty,” said the company in a press release. “The IDEaS program—run by Canada’s Department of National Defence— aims to stimulate innovation by tackling real-world defence and security challenges. It accelerates concept development, propels emerging technologies, and fosters a robust Canadian defence-innovation ecosystem. Challenges submitted to the IDEaS program come directly from the operational needs of the Canadian Armed Forces, including drone detection, cybersecurity, sensing technologies, logistics, autonomous systems, and more.
At the sandbox, DARIT showcased its REMPART system, an autonomous Intrusion Detection System (IDS) designed for C-UAS and ground-perimeter protection. REMPART leverages the Fusion Core software suite and a diverse range of distributed sensor technologies—vision, acoustic, radar, RF, and LiDAR—to monitor air and ground activity within a practical, integrated C2 (Command and Control) system. Project partners included Echodyne, Robin Radar Systems, OpenWorks Engineering Ltd., and Infiniti Electro-Optics. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
23 Feb 26. US Army expects “significant increase” in C-sUAS testing workload. US Army Yuma Proving Ground’s Test Center (YPG) has been designated as the primary, dedicated interagency counter-small uncrewed aerial system (C-sUAS) test and training range. The designation means that YPG will primarily focus on Class I and II small UAS, while larger Class III through V systems will continue to primarily be tested at White Sands Missile Range, YPG’s larger sister installation. YPG includes nearly 2,000 square miles of restricted airspace, with a dry climate, making the post ideal for aviation testing. The site has also hosted semiannual industry demonstrations of the latest C-sUAS technology for most of the current decade.
“We anticipate a pretty significant increase in workload,” said Ross Gwynn, YPG Technical Director. “As industry is asked to demonstrate capabilities that will solve gaps for the military, we’re going to see industry partners and contractors that want to come out and get opportunities to test their systems in restricted airspace.”
The US Army’s Rapid-Equipping Force was the first to test counter-drone technology at YPG in 2015. Since then, numerous instrumentation and test methodologies have been developed in-house along with analytical processes to determine how these systems are performing. The designation is expected to speed up this process and focus these test efforts in a single location. James Amato, Executive Technical Director for the Army Test and Evaluation Command, said however that the workload will likely be so great that the Army will continue to use multiple test centres. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
20 Feb 26. Invariant tests STAKE system on uncrewed vessel. Invariant Corporation’s Surface-to-Air Kinetic Engagement (STAKE) system has been integrated onto a Textron Systems’ TSUNAMIR Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) and performed early integration testing at Lake Guntersville. The test demonstrated the STAKE system’s versatility and ship-borne readiness in a dynamic, complex environment as well as Invariant’s counter-unmanned systems team’s aptitude. STAKE, a modular system, can be integrated onto a variety of vehicles. The system’s maritime payloads consist of two core subsystems: the Hunter, which houses the sensor and laser designation package responsible for acquiring and tracking targets, and the Killer, the precision engagement platform. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
23 Feb 26. Northrop Grumman’s Valen: A Generational Leap in Sensing Tech.
Northrop Grumman is introducing Valen, the newest multifunction active electronically scanned array (AESA) in the company’s advanced sensing portfolio. Valen’s next generation capabilities are ready to deliver the tactical edge to U.S. and allied warfighters.
This wideband array is lighter, smaller and more affordable, combining radar, electronic warfare and communications into one elegant design for manned and unmanned platforms, from sky to space.
- Company-Funded Innovation: Funded entirely by Northrop Grumman, Valen builds upon generations of combat-proven AESA technology.
- Accelerated Production: Valen is 3D-printed and digitally designed, reducing its production timeline. Northrop Grumman continues to deliver at the speed of innovation.
- Unmatched Performance Excellence: Valen’s exceptional performance is powered by Northrop Grumman Microelectronics Center’s advanced packaging techniques, which combine many different semiconductor parts into one micro-sized package, so the device works faster, stays cooler and uses less power, all within a smaller footprint.
- Open Architecture: Built with the latest open-architecture standards, Valen’s hardware and software unites the power of advanced sensor capabilities from across Northrop Grumman and enables rapid updates.
Next-Level Detection: An AESA is a digitally controlled array that uses antennas and sensors to provide rapid detection, tracking and imaging capabilities in any direction without the need for mechanical movement.
Krys Moen, vice president, advanced mission capabilities, Northrop Grumman:
“Our warfighters require advanced situational awareness no matter what platform they’re operating. Valen’s design embodies the future of warfare—integrating cutting-edge technology, adaptability and affordability to enable quick decision making and effective mission execution. Valen’s compact, lightweight design cuts production time, delivering a highly capable product to the field faster.” (Source: UAS VISION)
19 Feb 26. Cuashub.com said today that Drone detection tech wins first place at Canada’s IDEaS Sandbox. DARIT Technologies has been awarded first place and a $1m prize at the 2025 IDEaS Urban Sandbox, a defense innovation event run by Canada’s Department of National Defence. The award was presented in November in Ottawa by Canada’s Minister of National Defence, David McGuinty. The IDEaS (Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security) program is designed to support the development of technologies addressing operational challenges identified by the Canadian Armed Forces. According to the Department of National Defence, IDEaS seeks to stimulate innovation by tackling real-world defence and security challenges, accelerating concept development and fostering Canada’s defense innovation ecosystem. Challenges submitted to the program span areas such as drone detection, cybersecurity, sensing technologies, logistics and autonomous systems. At the Urban Sandbox, DARIT demonstrated its REMPART system, described by the company as an autonomous intrusion detection system intended for counter-UAS and ground-perimeter protection roles. REMPART integrates DARIT’s Fusion Core software suite with multiple sensor types, including vision, acoustic, radar, RF and LiDAR, within what the company describes as an integrated command-and-control architecture. The system is designed to monitor both air and ground activity, reflecting growing interest among defense organizations in multi-domain security solutions that can address small UAS threats alongside traditional perimeter risks.
In its announcement, DARIT characterized itself as “Canada’s global leader in fusion-driven solutions for counter-UAS and advanced ground-perimeter security.”
The company also acknowledged collaboration and equipment support from several industry partners during the sandbox event, including Echodyne, Robin Radar Systems, OpenWorks Engineering Ltd. and Infiniti Electro-Optics.
The IDEaS Urban Sandbox format allows companies to demonstrate prototype or near-market technologies in realistic environments, with military stakeholders observing and evaluating performance. For counter-UAS developers in particular, such venues offer an opportunity to test sensor fusion, detection reliability and system integration under operationally relevant conditions.
Drone detection tech wins first place at Canada’s IDEaS Sandbox
(Source: https://cuashub.com/
23 Feb 26. Robin Radar Systems today announces that its conflict-proven IRIS drone-detection radar will be deployed by components of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), alongside state and local agencies, as part of counter-UAS operations for the FIFA World Cup in North America later this year. The radars will be responsible for protecting high-visibility events and critical infrastructure following additional support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The deployment reflects growing recognition across U.S. homeland security agencies that drone threats at large-scale public events require persistent, reliable airspace awareness, delivered through scalable, easy-to-operate sensing systems.
The IRIS is a plug-and-play radar solution and can be set up in under 15 minutes by a single operator without technical support and operates 24/7 seamlessly with minimal human input. Unlike more complex military systems that require teams of engineers to deploy and operate, the IRIS radar integrates seamlessly into broader counter-UAS architectures alongside cameras, acoustic sensors, passive detection systems and command-and-control platforms.
The FIFA World Cup deployment builds on Robin Radar’s role in securing major international events, including the Paris Olympic Games in 2024, where IRIS was integrated into a multi-sensor security framework protecting athletes and spectators.
Robin Radar’s IRIS provides 360-degree situational awareness, detecting, tracking, and classifying airborne objects, including drones deliberately designed to evade traditional detection methods. With an instrumented range of up to 12 kilometres, IRIS offers early warning, giving authorities the time and space required to assess threats, coordinate responses, and act decisively.
IRIS is a TRL 9 capability, meaning it has been used extensively in active conflict environments, providing operational validation in high-pressure settings. That experience has informed product refinement and accelerated scaling, applying conflict-proven technology to the domestic setting.
Robin Radar has seen exponential growth across North America in 2025, driven by demand from DHS components and Canadian federal agencies, as major political and sporting events continue to require increased airspace security. The company has also partnered with multiple prime integrators under forthcoming DHS Counter-UAS procurement frameworks, reinforcing its position as a trusted radar supplier within the wider CUAS ecosystem.
Kristian Brost, General Manager, Robin Radar North America, said: “DHS components and state authorities are looking for solutions that work immediately, that scale, and that can be operated by non-technical teams. IRIS delivers exactly that. It’s a plug-and-play radar that provides persistent airspace awareness within minutes of arrival. At an event the size of the World Cup, clarity and early warnings are critical.”
Marcel Verdonk, Chief Commercial Officer at Robin Radar Systems, said: “Large-scale public events require trusted, off-the-shelf security technology that can be delivered at pace. We have demonstrated that we can supply in quantity, from supporting European ministries of defence to delivering at scale in North America. IRIS provides reliable military-grade detection with rapid deployment, and that reassurance matters when agencies are protecting ms of people.”
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
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.
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————