Sponsored by Echodyne
www.echodyne.com
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25 Mar 26.Echodyne, the radar platform company, today announces Echodyne Director of Government Affairs Max Rosen has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the uncrewed systems, autonomy, and robotics industries.
Since its inception, Echodyne has been steadily expanding its role in enabling safe commercial unmanned aircraft system (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM) environments, while also protecting the airspace from rogue or hostile activity with its patented metamaterials electronically scanned array (MESA®) radar technology. As the company’s footprint grows, joining AUVSI’s Board of Directors strengthens the company’s ability to engage more directly in Washington, D.C. and contribute to shaping the future of the commercial drone industry.
In his current role at Echodyne, and previously in government affairs at AUVSI, Max has worked closely with Congress and federal agencies to help shape policy frameworks around the integration and growth of the UAS and AAM sectors. He will serve out his term on the Board through 2027, representing Echodyne’s dedication to innovation within the commercial drone sector.
“Through such pursuits like our growing footprint in the Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) industry, Echodyne is committed to the adoption of drones for commercial use and ensuring the safety of the national airspace as it continues to evolve alongside these innovations,” said Echodyne CEO and President Eben Frankenberg. “Max’s appointment to the AUVSI Board of Directors comes at a critical time, when strides in UAS and AAM are being seen as key drivers of commercial growth across public safety, critical infrastructure protection, event security, and beyond.”
This appointment news comes on the heels of an exciting start to 2026 for Echodyne, with the company recently announcing a major near-term expansion in radar production capacity. To meet a surge in global demand, Echodyne has invested in an 86,350-square-foot facility in Washington State with the capacity to produce and ship more than 30,000 radars per year.(Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
25 Mar 26. COBBS, Anduril, and Nokia to Accelerate Sovereign C-UAS Capability in Belgium. COBBS BELUX, Anduril Industries, and Nokia Belgium have formed a consortium to develop and deploy advanced counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capabilities in Belgium. The initiative aims to protect military sites and critical infrastructure while strengthening Belgian and European defence capabilities.
The partnership combines operational expertise, autonomous defence technology, and secure communications to deliver a sovereign C-UAS capability designed, developed, and operated locally in Belgium. The system is built to evolve with emerging threats, supporting long-term technological resilience, continuous innovation, and the national defence industrial ecosystem.
Adapting to a Changing Threat Landscape
Military bases that were once defended primarily against aircraft and missiles are increasingly exposed to small, low-cost autonomous drones capable of real-time surveillance or disruption. These systems evolve quickly, with adversaries constantly adapting tactics, frequencies, and swarm behaviour. Effective counter-drone defence therefore requires a capability that can be continuously updated rather than a one-time solution.
Software-First Architecture
The consortium’s solution uses a software-first architecture centred on a command-and-control (C2) intelligence layer that fuses data from radar, optical, RF, and acoustic sensors into a unified operational picture with automated classification. The system allows a single operator to control multiple counter-UAS systems while retaining human oversight for critical decisions.
Leveraging Belgium’s defence communications networks supported by Nokia, the modular architecture integrates sensors, effectors, and communications into a layered defence aligned with NATO counter-drone requirements. This scalable approach allows new capabilities to be added as threats evolve.
Together, COBBS BELUX, Anduril Industries, and Nokia aim to deliver a sovereign, future-ready counter-drone ecosystem that strengthens both national and regional security. (Source: UAS VISION)
26 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that BAE Systems fast-tracks new BATS counter-drone system. BAE Systems is accelerating the development of a new counter-drone system designed to address the growing threat posed by drones to both civilian and military infrastructure.
The system, known as the BAE Systems Anti Threat System or BATS, is being developed by engineers within the company’s Digital Intelligence division. Work on the project began in October 2025, with initial system testing expected as early as April and live-fire trials planned for early summer.
Focus on reducing reliance on costly interceptors
The BATS concept is centered on combining software, electronic warfare and kinetic options into a single system aimed at countering drone incursions more efficiently.
According to the company, the system is intended to reduce the need for expensive missile-based interceptors by offering alternative methods to detect and defeat drones targeting national borders, military assets, airports and urban areas.
“Drone incursions are a clear and present issue, putting citizens, military personnel and infrastructure at risk. The technology evolves faster than traditional defense systems can respond, with new behaviours, payloads and tactics emerging almost daily. That’s why we’re moving at pace to build a new system to support our customers in their efforts against this very urgent problem,” said Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems Digital Intelligence.
Software-led approach to counter-UAS
At the core of BATS is a software-driven command and control system designed to fuse data from multiple sensors and provide real-time threat classification.
The system is expected to detect and identify hostile drone activity early by integrating inputs from layered sensing technologies into a centralized data environment. Its decision-support engine will then apply automated logic to recommend appropriate responses based on the threat level.
BAE Systems said the platform will feature an open architecture, allowing users to integrate both current and future counter-drone technologies, including sensors and effectors from multiple domains.
Rapid development timeline
The development timeline suggests an effort to respond more quickly to evolving drone threats, which are a key challenge for defense forces in the Middle East and Ukraine currently.
The company said the system has been developed using expertise from across its air, land and maritime divisions, with a focus on delivering a scalable and adaptable capability for different operational environments. BAE Systems fast-tracks new BATS counter-drone system – cuashub.com
26 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that Telecom giant Orange enters counter-drone market with “as-a-service” model. Orange Business has launched a new counter-drone offering, positioning it as Europe’s first counter-UAS solution delivered through an “as-a-service” model.
The system, called Orange Drone Guardian, is designed to detect, identify and classify drones operating in low-altitude airspace. Initially deployed across France, the company said the service could be expanded to other European markets.
The launch comes less than a year after the creation of Orange Business’ Defense and Security division and seeks to apply telecommunications infrastructure and cloud capabilities to security applications.
Subscription model targets infrastructure protection
Orange Drone Guardian is aimed at organizations responsible for critical infrastructure, including operators of vital importance, essential service providers, public institutions and major event organizers.
Unlike traditional counter-drone systems that require upfront investment in hardware and infrastructure, the platform is offered on a subscription basis. Customers receive drone detection data in real time without deploying their own sensor networks.
The system relies on Orange’s existing infrastructure, including connectivity networks, cloud services and operational centers. A network of nearly 20,000 tower and rooftop sites operated by TOTEM is used to host detection sensors, extending geographic coverage without requiring site-specific installations.
Focus on detection and integration
The solution combines sensor technologies with command-and-control software to detect and classify drones, including in complex urban environments where interference can affect performance.
Orange Business said the platform is designed with an open architecture, allowing integration of additional sensors and capabilities over time. Planned enhancements include the use of artificial intelligence and future 5G-based radio sensing technologies.
“I am proud to announce the launch of Orange Drone Guardian, the first offer from the Defense & Security division. This solution is a first in France and Europe. It addresses our customers’ challenges in protecting sensitive sites with sovereign infrastructure, a scalable and open model, and all delivered ‘as a service’. The full strength of this solution lies in our ability to innovate and in our multidisciplinary expertise,” said Nassima Auvray, Director of Defense & Security.
Shift toward service-based counter-UAS
The introduction of a service-based model looks to meet the demand more flexible approaches to airspace security.
By leveraging existing telecom infrastructure and centralized data processing, Orange Business is positioning the system as a lower-barrier entry point for organizations that require drone detection capabilities but may not have the resources to deploy and maintain standalone systems.
The company said the platform is designed to evolve over time, incorporating additional technologies and adapting to changing threat environments.
Telecom giant Orange enters counter-drone market with “as-a-service” model – cuashub.com
19 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that USAF battle lab to develop counter-drone SOPs for U.S. air base defense. The U.S. Air Force is preparing to run a series of counter-drone exercises with industry partners throughout 2026 as part of a new effort to develop standardized operating procedures for defending air bases from unmanned threats. This follows an announcement made by JIATF-401 earlier this week, which introduced standardized testing guidelines for the assessment of new counter-sUAS technologies, which suggests an increased focus on aligning counter-drone efforts across the Department of War.
Air Combat Command selected the 319th Reconnaissance Wing at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, in January to lead the Point Defense Battle Lab. The initiative aims to develop tactics, techniques and procedures that align with emerging counter-sUAS technologies intended to protect U.S.-based installations.
The 319th Reconnaissance Wing, supported by the Kansas Air National Guard’s 184th Wing, plans to conduct exercises each month of 2026 where companies can demonstrate counter-drone technologies for potential Air Force use. Officials expect to run at least one exercise per month, with some months hosting two demonstrations at undisclosed locations.
Industry demonstrations planned throughout 2026
To prepare for the exercises, the battle lab recently released two requests for information seeking companies interested in participating in future demonstrations. One request focuses on technologies capable of detecting, identifying and tracking drones. The other targets companies developing kinetic hard-kill solutions such as missiles and projectile-based systems.
“We’re going to have specialized exercises throughout the year, and we’re looking to identify those businesses now, so that we can reach out and say, ‘Hey, in July, are you available? You have capabilities that fit within the exercise that we’re planning to do,’” said Senior Master Sgt. BreeAnn Sachs, a spokesperson for the 319th. “We’re looking at every kind of company. If there’s a company that does one specific piece of counter-UAS – detection, tracking, elimination, identification – great. If you have a technology that can do all of them, fantastic.”
Developing standard operating procedures for base defense
The exercises will contribute to the development of a standard operating procedure for defending air bases against drone threats.
“The tactics and techniques and procedures that we capture and develop through these exercises are going to be synthesized into a standard operating procedure for point defense for drones,” Sachs said.
She added that the goal is to complete the first iteration of the operating procedure within the 2026 calendar year and distribute it across Air Force installations in the United States.
“Then that SOP will be given to … all Air Force installations in the United States, so that we can rapidly help all [installations] acquire and install this counter-UAS infrastructure,” Sachs said.
Focus on deployable systems and layered defenses
The RFIs specify that technologies should be rapidly deployable via cargo pallet and set up by teams of up to four Airmen within two hours. Systems must be designed to counter Group 1 through Group 3 drones and operate in extreme temperatures and winds up to 30 miles per hour.
One solicitation seeks technologies capable of consistently detecting and tracking Group 1 drones at ranges of two kilometers or greater while autonomously classifying objects to distinguish drones from non-UAS targets. A secondary objective includes detecting and tracking Group 2 and Group 3 drones at ranges between 50 meters and 500 meters.
The second request focuses on hard-kill systems, including Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) launchers, large-caliber 30mm airburst or proximity ammunition systems, automated weapon stations with counter-UAS fire control, autonomous drone-on-drone interceptors, high-energy lasers between 2 and 20 kilowatts and high-power microwave systems designed to counter drone swarms.
“We acknowledge that it’ll likely take multiple systems that can integrate with each other to give us a full picture and give us all the capabilities that we need to properly defend our installations from aerial threats,” Sachs said.
She noted that different bases will require different solutions depending on their location and operational environment.
“Every installation is going to have different needs, different electromagnetic spectrum considerations, different considerations for if they are close to water … if they are close to mountains,” Sachs said. “So, we understand that we are going to need to be evaluating a wide range of different companies, so that we have a lot of different options available.”
Companies have until April 30 to respond to the current RFIs, though additional solicitations may be released monthly to support specific exercises and bring in additional industry participants.
The battle lab operates as part of Air Combat Command’s broader Point Defense Task Force, which focuses on addressing the growing threat posed by drones to military installations.
“This is a really dynamic threat,” Sachs said. “There will be a refinement piece, so we’ll continue to evaluate this technology, so that we can offer updates to the SOP.”
Air Force battle lab to develop counter-drone SOPs for U.S. air base defense – cuashub.com
19 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that American Rheinmetall tests USHORAD vehicle in live-fire C-UAS demonstration.
American Rheinmetall recently conducted a live-fire demonstration of its Ultra-Short Range Air Defense counter-UAS system integrated onto a tactical vehicle during testing at the Big Sandy Range in Arizona.
The company mounted its remote weapon station onto GM Defense’s Infantry Squad Vehicle-C platform for the demonstration, testing the system against small drone targets in a controlled range environment.
According to American Rheinmetall, the event validated the integration of the counter-drone system with the lightweight tactical vehicle, which is designed to support rapid maneuver operations. The demonstration showed the vehicle-mounted system detecting and engaging aerial targets during live-fire testing.
During the event, the system successfully engaged both fixed-wing and rotary-wing sUAS targets. The test was designed to demonstrate the system’s ability to counter multiple drone types commonly used for reconnaissance or attack missions.
American Rheinmetall also used the event to evaluate the system’s average cost-per-kill performance, evaluating the economic efficiency of the system when intercepting low-cost aerial threats.
The company said the live-fire trials confirmed the system’s readiness for further experimentation during an upcoming U.S. Army evaluation event.
Army experimentation
The platform is scheduled to participate in the Concept Focused Warfighting Experimentation Cross Domain Fires event at Fort Sill, where it will undergo additional testing alongside other emerging capabilities.
American Rheinmetall describes the system as a remote weapon station designed for counter-UAS missions that can operate autonomously as a last-line defensive layer against drones approaching friendly forces or critical infrastructure.
The company also said the platform is intended to provide a platform-agnostic capability, allowing it to be integrated onto various vehicles or fixed installations depending on operational requirements.
Mobile defenses for evolving drone threats
Remote weapon stations used for counter-drone operations typically combine sensors, targeting software and automated firing systems to detect and engage aerial threats at short range.
Ultra-Short Range Air Defense systems are designed to protect units and facilities against drones, helicopters and low-flying aircraft operating below the coverage envelope of larger air defense systems.
Unlike long-range missile defenses, these systems prioritize mobility and rapid deployment so they can accompany maneuver forces or protect forward operating locations.
Modern counter-UAS solutions increasingly incorporate automated target recognition and tracking technologies that allow systems to quickly engage threats after detection, helping address the growing speed and volume of drone attacks observed in recent conflicts.
The integration with the Infantry Squad Vehicle-C platform aims for a mobile approach in which counter-drone defenses can move with infantry units in dynamic operational environments.
The vehicle developed by GM Defense is derived from the Infantry Squad Vehicle family used by the U.S. Army, which is designed to transport soldiers quickly across terrain while maintaining a small logistical footprint.
American Rheinmetall tests USHORAD vehicle in live-fire C-UAS demonstration – cuashub.com
19 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that AFRICOM evaluates drone swarm defense system to counter low-cost aerial threats.
U.S. Africa Command is evaluating a new force protection concept that uses swarming drones to defend deployed troops against the growing threat posed by low-cost unmanned aircraft.
The initiative, known as CURTAIN CALL, is designed to create a coordinated swarm of unmanned systems that can form a defensive shield against incoming drone attacks.
Officials say the project was developed in response to several factors shaping the current battlefield environment, including the economic impact of mass-produced drones, the direct threats faced by deployed forces and the accelerating pace of drone development.
A recent field demonstration was conducted to assess the system’s current capabilities and support future development efforts.
The project is supported through Joint Staff J7’s Warfighter Laboratory Incentive Fund program and integrates commercially available drones and sensors to create a flexible and cost-effective defense system.
Rather than relying on custom-built equipment, the approach focuses on adapting commercially available technologies that can be deployed and modified quickly. The initial demonstration allowed engineers to identify technical challenges and refine the system before conducting a more complex operational test within the AFRICOM area of responsibility.
“In today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape, we need agile and affordable solutions to protect our forces on the continent,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jared Bindl, chief of Science, Tech & Innovation at AFRICOM. “Agile Counter-UAS solutions like CURTAIN CALL are crucial for developing layered defenses that can be deployed rapidly and sustainably. This demonstration is a key step in building a more resilient and cost-effective force protection posture.”
Informing future development
According to AFRICOM, the demonstration provided valuable insights into both the strengths and current limitations of the system.
The results are expected to inform leadership decisions about the technology’s viability as part of the command’s broader force protection strategy.
“The demonstration achieved its intended purpose: to expose system realities early, reduce risk and generate decision-quality insight to inform the next phase of execution,” Bindl said.
Officials said the lessons learned during the evaluation will guide further development of the CURTAIN CALL concept as AFRICOM continues exploring new ways to counter emerging drone threats facing deployed forces.
AFRICOM evaluates drone swarm defense system to counter low-cost aerial threats – cuashub.com
24 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that Joint Interagency Task Force Awards Critical Counter-UAS Contract
Joint Interagency Task Force 401 has successfully executed additional contract awards as part of Domestic Shield to procure counter-unmanned aerial systems capability in support of U.S. Northern Command and U.S. Strategic Command.
The combined contract, valued at $6.1 million, includes the purchase of 210 SmartShooter Smash 2000LE systems and one AeroVironment Titan Cerberus XL system. This milestone expands the layered defenses that protect installations and critical defense infrastructure from the emerging UAS threats in the U.S.
“We need a layered defense that includes distributed sensing, the ability to track in real time, and capabilities to engage with both non-kinetic and kinetic countermeasures,” said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, task force director. “This purchase does not solve that problem, but it’s a step in the right direction.”
He added that both contracts were executed at a record pace, underscoring JIATF 401’s commitment to cutting through red tape to deliver critical counter-UAS capability at the speed of relevance during combat operations in support of Operation Epic Fury.
The rapid award timeline reflects strong coordination across requirements, contracting and mission stakeholders to ensure timely responses to operator needs.
Additionally, two radar systems have been assigned to support the National Capital Region in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, enhancing the region’s ability to detect and counter emerging UAS threats. Ross said this strategic move strengthens local defense capabilities, ensuring that critical infrastructure remains protected.
In support of this reconfiguration, JIATF 401 is also advancing the integration of the Lattice system, a cutting-edge, tactical user interface for command-and-control of counter-UAS that links sensors and effectors across installations and agencies. This integration will boost response times and strengthen national defense, enabling more agile and effective counter-UAS operations.
The task force is pioneering acquisition reform practices to ensure the services and the entire joint force receive the critical technologies they need to maintain the operational advantage and keep America safe. (Source: U.S. DoD)
19 Mar 26. iBULe Photonics unveiled the world’s first submarine hydrophone sensor utilising 3rd-generation piezoelectric single crystal technology at Oceanology International 2026 (Oi26). The new acoustic sensor represents a major advancement in underwater detection capability. By harnessing the enhanced properties of third-generation single crystal materials, the hydrophone delivers 9 dB greater sensitivity compared with conventional ceramic PZT hydrophones. This improved performance enables longer detection ranges and clearer signal processing, particularly in complex and noisy undersea environments.
Designed for next-generation naval sensing systems and advanced ocean monitoring applications, the technology supports improved situational awareness and more precise acoustic detection for submarines and underwater platforms.
During the exhibition, iBULe Photonics, a global leader in piezoelectric single crystal materials, also outlined its strategic ambition to expand into the North American defence market – capitalising on the role of high-performance acoustic sensing technologies such as iBULe Photonics’s single crystal hydrophone in enhancing detection capabilities for future submarine fleets. Among the company’s potential collaborations are opportunities linked to the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP) – a major procurement programme which will replace the Royal Canadian Navy’s Victoria-class submarines with a new fleet of modern long-range patrol submarines.
Visitors to the iBULe Photonics stand during Oi26 were also introduced to a visual presentation highlighting the company’s technological development and its long-term vision for delivering advanced sensing solutions that support a safer and more connected ocean. The display attracted strong interest from industry experts, naval representatives and international defence contractors attending the event.
“Our 3rd-generation single crystal technology represents far more than an incremental improvement – it marks a fundamental step forward in underwater acoustics,” said Dr. Sang-Goo Lee, CEO of iBULe Photonics.
“With a 9 dB sensitivity advantage over traditional PZT sensors, we are providing the ‘eyes and ears’ required for the next generation of naval sensing systems, as well as other maritime and ocean science applications. We are excited about the opportunities to support major global programmes such as Canada’s CPSP.M As demand grows for high-performance, long-range underwater detection technologies, iBULe Photonics’s latest innovation positions the company as an emerging contributor to the future of undersea defence capability and oceanographic research.
25 Mar 26. MARSS signs MoU with Nigerian MoD for landmark national C4I programme, valued at over $190m. The multi-year scheme will be among the largest national defence programmes commissioned in Africa, delivering an AI-powered shield to protect Nigeria’s critical infrastructure and borders against asymmetric threats.
The MoU, signed in London on 19 March 2026, establishes a partnership between MARSS, the Nigerian Ministry of Defence, and local partners to deliver Nigeria’s first fully integrated national defence architecture. Under the agreement, MARSS will deliver its NiDAR AI-powered C4I solution along with a training, spares and support programme. A new national command centre will also be commissioned, featuring a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence to deliver ongoing training for Nigerian operators to maintain a high state of operational readiness.
Nigeria and the wider West African region face growing asymmetric threats from terrorism and organised insurgency. This programme will see MARSS working with its local partners to build sovereign capability, create a critical multi-domain defence architecture, and support the national security agencies in counter-terrorism operations.
“The UK and Nigeria share a deep, longstanding security and defence relationship. Signing this memorandum of understanding is a great example of our continued and strengthening partnership, with a British company able to deliver world leading, combat proven UK technology and defensive capabilities to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.”
The programme marks a significant commitment to one of the first national-scale adoptions of AI-enabled C4I in Africa. The programme scope includes:
- A fleet of expeditionary platforms, equipped with a mixture of sensors and effectors meshed by MARSS’ ground-breaking NiDAR C4I system.
- Unmanned aerial surveillance vehicles (UAVs), integrated into NiDAR via MARSS’ Autonomous Mission Management (AMM), enabling intelligent aerial reconnaissance in hostile and contested areas where it is unsafe to deploy ground resources.
- New regional command centres and a national headquarters, networked to receive live sensor data from fixed legacy systems and the fleet of expeditionary platforms and UAVs, fused together by MARSS’ NiDAR Nation Shield, Edge to Mission Command (E2MC) capabilities – delivering an integrated multi-domain air and land surveillance picture.
Rob Balloch, Chief Growth Officer at MARSS said: “By integrating expeditionary vehicles, regional centres, and a new national headquarters into a single C4I tactical picture, NiDAR will provide a multi-dimensional layered defence capability that is both scalable and future-proofed in the fight against terrorism.”
This new programme will take advantage of two of NiDAR’s latest capability upgrades:
- NiDAR Nation Shield, with its E2MC capabilities, enables those in expeditionary vehicles, piloting UAVs, or in regional and national hubs to work from the same single operational picture, allowing for faster and more accurate decision-making at tactical, operational, and strategic levels.
- NiDAR AMM enables operators to autonomously task, and deploy uncrewed assets across air, land, and sea domains, transforming UAVs, UGVs, and USVs into intelligent autonomous sensor and effector platforms within the wider defence ecosystem.
“The support of the UK Government and our local and international partners has been a major factor in bringing this project together,” Balloch added. “It is a huge endorsement of the UK’s position as an AI defence technology leader, with the ability to deliver this critical capability at scale with confidence.”
NiDAR is already in operation across more than 60 sites globally – protecting military and critical infrastructure installations. This latest contract is a further demonstration of how NiDAR’s AI-enabled C4I capability can be scaled to create a single, coherent operating picture from tactical deployments right through to strategic, national-level command.
DroneShield Expands C2 Interoperability Through Integration with OpenWorks Engineering Optical Sensors
25 Mar 26. DroneShield, a global leader in counter-unmanned systems (C-UxS) solutions, today announced interoperability between DroneSentry-C2 command-and-control software, and optical sensing technologies from OpenWorks Engineering.
The partnership strengthens DroneShield’s ability to unify multi-domain sensor inputs within a single operational C2 environment, delivering enhanced detection, tracking, and decision superiority for end users.
OpenWorks Engineering is a UK-based technology company specializing in advanced optical sensor systems and imaging solutions for defense, security, and industrial applications. With a heritage rooted in delivering modular, high-resolution optical sensing for challenging environments, OpenWorks remains focused on precision detection, identification, and continuous tracking of airborne objects.
Interoperability with OpenWorks Engineering optical sensors adds another high-value option to DroneShield’s ecosystem, enabling customers to enhance visual detection, tracking, and identification capabilities within a single, cohesive command-and-control environment.
DroneSentry-C2 as the Operational Anchor
While additional sensors enhance coverage, operational advantage is achieved at the command-and-control layer. DroneSentry-C2 serves as the authoritative decision engine that combines and prioritizes inputs across RF, optical, and other supported modalities.
Within the DroneSentry-C2 platform, powered by its SensorFusion engine sits DroneShield’s proprietary DroneOptID, an AI-driven machine vision capability designed to deliver autonomous visual detection, validation, and tracking of drone threats using optical sensors such as OpenWorks. DroneOptID enhances the common operating picture by providing real-time visual confirmation once a drone is detected and cued by the broader sensor network. DroneOptID automatically slews the camera to the target, validates the threat, and maintains persistent tracking using advanced machine learning, without requiring manual or continuous operator input. DroneOptID also assists in assessing payload indicators, modifications, and countermeasure effectiveness, while securely storing video for post-event review and forensic analysis, strengthening layered airspace security across the DroneSentry-C2 ecosystem.
Rather than presenting operators with parallel systems or fragmented dashboards, DroneSentry-C2 provides a unified operational interface where sensor data is fused, contextualized, and prioritized in real time, with DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise enabling coordinated oversight across geographically dispersed and enterprise-scale deployments.
“Operators need clarity, not complexity,” said Angus Bean, DroneShield’s Chief Product Officer.
“Expanding our ecosystem with additional optical sensing technologies from OpenWorks Engineering gives customers more options to tailor their deployments, while SensorFusionAI ensures all inputs are combined into a clear, operational picture.”
“Collaboration with DroneShield enhances channels through which intelligent and autonomous vision systems from OpenWorks can be deployed. We share DroneShield’s approach to modularity, creating configurable ecosystems of technology that integrate with end-users’ existing systems. We look forward to further strengthening our relationship with DroneShield throughout 2026,” stated James Cross, Chief Commercial Officer for OpenWorks.
A Growing Marketplace for Airspace Security
DroneShield’s expanding ecosystem reflects a broader vision: creating a marketplace of interoperable technologies that empowers operators to configure, evolve, and scale their C-UxS capabilities over time.
By prioritizing open architecture, interoperability, and AI-driven intelligence, DroneShield is positioning its platform as the foundation for layered, multi-sensor airspace security strategies, without constraining customers to a single hardware pathway.
This ecosystem model supports procurement flexibility, accelerates deployment timelines, and aligns with the realities faced by defense, security, and public safety organizations operating in rapidly changing threat environments.
16 Mar 26. 27% increase in anti-drone technology patents last year – China leads surge.
- Number of applications rose by 27% to 126 in the year to March 2025, up from 99 the year before
- Drones have transformed modern warfare in Ukraine
- Conflict in the Gulf shows the limits of using pre-Drone era expensive inceptor missiles
The number of patent applications for anti-drone (counter-UAV) technologies filed globally increased by 27% to 126 last year*, up from 99 the year before, according to new research from leading intellectual property (IP) law firm Mathys & Squire.
The sharp rise in patents filed reflects growing global demand for systems capable of disabling or neutralising drones, whose use has expanded rapidly.
The conflict in the Gulf shows that the need for anti-drone measures that aren’t dependent on the use of million-dollar interceptor missiles. Meanwhile, incidents involving suspicious drone sightings in Europe and the US over the past year have raised questions about the vulnerability of both domestic civilian and defence infrastructure to drone attacks.
China dominated the global anti-drone patent landscape, filing 82 applications in the last year alone, far ahead of the US, which recorded just 22 new anti-drone patent submissions. China, the US and South Korea rank as the top three anti-drone patent filers globally.
18 Mar 26. A team of UK based engineers is developing a new way of eliminating hostile drones. The project is being funded and run by the country’s largest defence company, BAE Systems, which is leveraging its long-standing software expertise to create a cost-effective new system in just months to address the growing threat posed to key civilian and military infrastructure.
The BAE Systems Anti Threat System or ‘BATS’ will enable customers to reduce the use of costly missiles by instead deploying smart software, electronic warfare and kinetic measures to tackle increasing drone incursion threats to national borders, military equipment, airports and urban centres.
Work to produce BATS began in October 2025 and is expected to be ready for system testing as soon as next month, followed by live-fire trials in early summer this year – representing rapid capability development to help meet customer demands.
Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director at BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, said: “Drone incursions are a clear and present issue, putting citizens, military personnel and infrastructure at risk. The technology evolves faster than traditional defence systems can respond, with new behaviours, payloads and tactics emerging almost daily. That’s why we’re moving at pace to build a new system to support our customers in their efforts against this very urgent problem.”
BATS is a smart system with a scalable, software-driven command and control decision engine that will help customers detect, identify and defeat uncrewed threats, including drones, as fast as they evolve. It will feature an open architecture which means customers will be able to integrate current and future counter-threat technologies, including sensors and effectors from across multiple domains, into one system, which can be adapted for different use cases.
When deployed, BATS will detect uncrewed hostile activity early by fusing intelligence from multilayered sensors into its data core, identifying and classifying the threat level in real time. Its command and control and decision support capabilities will then apply rapid decision logic to help users decide on the most appropriate response.[1]
Work on BATS includes input from experts across BAE Systems, covering multiple domains including air, land and sea.
26 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that BAE Systems fast-tracks new BATS counter-drone system. BAE Systems is accelerating the development of a new counter-drone system designed to address the growing threat posed by drones to both civilian and military infrastructure.
The system, known as the BAE Systems Anti Threat System or BATS, is being developed by engineers within the company’s Digital Intelligence division. Work on the project began in October 2025, with initial system testing expected as early as April and live-fire trials planned for early summer.
Focus on reducing reliance on costly interceptors
The BATS concept is centered on combining software, electronic warfare and kinetic options into a single system aimed at countering drone incursions more efficiently.
According to the company, the system is intended to reduce the need for expensive missile-based interceptors by offering alternative methods to detect and defeat drones targeting national borders, military assets, airports and urban areas.
“Drone incursions are a clear and present issue, putting citizens, military personnel and infrastructure at risk. The technology evolves faster than traditional defense systems can respond, with new behaviours, payloads and tactics emerging almost daily. That’s why we’re moving at pace to build a new system to support our customers in their efforts against this very urgent problem,” said Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems Digital Intelligence.
Software-led approach to counter-UAS
At the core of BATS is a software-driven command and control system designed to fuse data from multiple sensors and provide real-time threat classification.
The system is expected to detect and identify hostile drone activity early by integrating inputs from layered sensing technologies into a centralized data environment. Its decision-support engine will then apply automated logic to recommend appropriate responses based on the threat level.
BAE Systems said the platform will feature an open architecture, allowing users to integrate both current and future counter-drone technologies, including sensors and effectors from multiple domains.
Rapid development timeline
The development timeline suggests an effort to respond more quickly to evolving drone threats, which are a key challenge for defense forces in the Middle East and Ukraine currently.
The company said the system has been developed using expertise from across its air, land and maritime divisions, with a focus on delivering a scalable and adaptable capability for different operational environments.
BAE Systems fast-tracks new BATS counter-drone system – cuashub.com
19 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that USAF battle lab to develop counter-drone SOPs for U.S. air base defense. The USAF battle lab is reparing to run a series of counter-drone exercises with industry partners throughout 2026 as part of a new effort to develop standardized operating procedures for defending air bases from unmanned threats. This follows an announcement made by JIATF-401 earlier this week, which introduced standardized testing guidelines for the assessment of new counter-sUAS technologies, which suggests an increased focus on aligning counter-drone efforts across the Department of War.
Air Combat Command selected the 319th Reconnaissance Wing at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, in January to lead the Point Defense Battle Lab. The initiative aims to develop tactics, techniques and procedures that align with emerging counter-sUAS technologies intended to protect U.S.-based installations.
The 319th Reconnaissance Wing, supported by the Kansas Air National Guard’s 184th Wing, plans to conduct exercises each month of 2026 where companies can demonstrate counter-drone technologies for potential Air Force use. Officials expect to run at least one exercise per month, with some months hosting two demonstrations at undisclosed locations.
Industry demonstrations planned throughout 2026
To prepare for the exercises, the battle lab recently released two requests for information seeking companies interested in participating in future demonstrations. One request focuses on technologies capable of detecting, identifying and tracking drones. The other targets companies developing kinetic hard-kill solutions such as missiles and projectile-based systems.
“We’re going to have specialized exercises throughout the year, and we’re looking to identify those businesses now, so that we can reach out and say, ‘Hey, in July, are you available? You have capabilities that fit within the exercise that we’re planning to do,’” said Senior Master Sgt. BreeAnn Sachs, a spokesperson for the 319th. “We’re looking at every kind of company. If there’s a company that does one specific piece of counter-UAS – detection, tracking, elimination, identification – great. If you have a technology that can do all of them, fantastic.”
Developing standard operating procedures for base defense
The exercises will contribute to the development of a standard operating procedure for defending air bases against drone threats.
“The tactics and techniques and procedures that we capture and develop through these exercises are going to be synthesized into a standard operating procedure for point defense for drones,” Sachs said.
She added that the goal is to complete the first iteration of the operating procedure within the 2026 calendar year and distribute it across Air Force installations in the United States.
“Then that SOP will be given to … all Air Force installations in the United States, so that we can rapidly help all [installations] acquire and install this counter-UAS infrastructure,” Sachs said.
Focus on deployable systems and layered defenses
The RFIs specify that technologies should be rapidly deployable via cargo pallet and set up by teams of up to four Airmen within two hours. Systems must be designed to counter Group 1 through Group 3 drones and operate in extreme temperatures and winds up to 30 miles per hour.
One solicitation seeks technologies capable of consistently detecting and tracking Group 1 drones at ranges of two kilometers or greater while autonomously classifying objects to distinguish drones from non-UAS targets. A secondary objective includes detecting and tracking Group 2 and Group 3 drones at ranges between 50 meters and 500 meters.
The second request focuses on hard-kill systems, including Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) launchers, large-caliber 30mm airburst or proximity ammunition systems, automated weapon stations with counter-UAS fire control, autonomous drone-on-drone interceptors, high-energy lasers between 2 and 20 kilowatts and high-power microwave systems designed to counter drone swarms.
“We acknowledge that it’ll likely take multiple systems that can integrate with each other to give us a full picture and give us all the capabilities that we need to properly defend our installations from aerial threats,” Sachs said.
She noted that different bases will require different solutions depending on their location and operational environment.
“Every installation is going to have different needs, different electromagnetic spectrum considerations, different considerations for if they are close to water … if they are close to mountains,” Sachs said. “So, we understand that we are going to need to be evaluating a wide range of different companies, so that we have a lot of different options available.”
Companies have until April 30 to respond to the current RFIs, though additional solicitations may be released monthly to support specific exercises and bring in additional industry participants.
The battle lab operates as part of Air Combat Command’s broader Point Defense Task Force, which focuses on addressing the growing threat posed by drones to military installations.
“This is a really dynamic threat,” Sachs said. “There will be a refinement piece, so we’ll continue to evaluate this technology, so that we can offer updates to the SOP.”
Air Force battle lab to develop counter-drone SOPs for U.S. air base defense – cuashub.com
19 Mar 26. C-UAS Hub said today that American Rheinmetall tests USHORAD vehicle in live-fire C-UAS demonstration. American Rheinmetall recently conducted a live-fire demonstration of its Ultra-Short Range Air Defense counter-UAS system integrated onto a tactical vehicle during testing at the Big Sandy Range in Arizona.
The company mounted its remote weapon station onto GM Defense’s Infantry Squad Vehicle-C platform for the demonstration, testing the system against small drone targets in a controlled range environment.
According to American Rheinmetall, the event validated the integration of the counter-drone system with the lightweight tactical vehicle, which is designed to support rapid maneuver operations. The demonstration showed the vehicle-mounted system detecting and engaging aerial targets during live-fire testing.
During the event, the system successfully engaged both fixed-wing and rotary-wing sUAS targets. The test was designed to demonstrate the system’s ability to counter multiple drone types commonly used for reconnaissance or attack missions.
American Rheinmetall also used the event to evaluate the system’s average cost-per-kill performance, evaluating the economic efficiency of the system when intercepting low-cost aerial threats.
The company said the live-fire trials confirmed the system’s readiness for further experimentation during an upcoming U.S. Army evaluation event.
Army experimentation
The platform is scheduled to participate in the Concept Focused Warfighting Experimentation Cross Domain Fires event at Fort Sill, where it will undergo additional testing alongside other emerging capabilities.
American Rheinmetall describes the system as a remote weapon station designed for counter-UAS missions that can operate autonomously as a last-line defensive layer against drones approaching friendly forces or critical infrastructure.
The company also said the platform is intended to provide a platform-agnostic capability, allowing it to be integrated onto various vehicles or fixed installations depending on operational requirements.
Mobile defenses for evolving drone threats
Remote weapon stations used for counter-drone operations typically combine sensors, targeting software and automated firing systems to detect and engage aerial threats at short range.
Ultra-Short Range Air Defense systems are designed to protect units and facilities against drones, helicopters and low-flying aircraft operating below the coverage envelope of larger air defense systems.
Unlike long-range missile defenses, these systems prioritize mobility and rapid deployment so they can accompany maneuver forces or protect forward operating locations.
Modern counter-UAS solutions increasingly incorporate automated target recognition and tracking technologies that allow systems to quickly engage threats after detection, helping address the growing speed and volume of drone attacks observed in recent conflicts.
The integration with the Infantry Squad Vehicle-C platform aims for a mobile approach in which counter-drone defenses can move with infantry units in dynamic operational environments.
The vehicle developed by GM Defense is derived from the Infantry Squad Vehicle family used by the U.S. Army, which is designed to transport soldiers quickly across terrain while maintaining a small logistical footprint.
American Rheinmetall tests USHORAD vehicle in live-fire C-UAS demonstration – cuashub.com
15 Mar 26. Joint Interagency Task Force Awards Critical Counter-UAS Contract.
Joint Interagency Task Force 401 has successfully executed additional contract awards as part of Domestic Shield to procure counter-unmanned aerial systems capability in support of U.S. Northern Command and U.S. Strategic Command.
The combined contract, valued at $6.1 million, includes the purchase of 210 SmartShooter Smash 2000LE systems and one AeroVironment Titan Cerberus XL system. This milestone expands the layered defenses that protect installations and critical defense infrastructure from the emerging UAS threats in the U.S.
“We need a layered defense that includes distributed sensing, the ability to track in real time, and capabilities to engage with both non-kinetic and kinetic countermeasures,” said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, task force director. “This purchase does not solve that problem, but it’s a step in the right direction.”
He added that both contracts were executed at a record pace, underscoring JIATF 401’s commitment to cutting through red tape to deliver critical counter-UAS capability at the speed of relevance during combat operations in support of Operation Epic Fury.
The rapid award timeline reflects strong coordination across requirements, contracting and mission stakeholders to ensure timely responses to operator needs.
Additionally, two radar systems have been assigned to support the National Capital Region in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, enhancing the region’s ability to detect and counter emerging UAS threats. Ross said this strategic move strengthens local defense capabilities, ensuring that critical infrastructure remains protected.
In support of this reconfiguration, JIATF 401 is also advancing the integration of the Lattice system, a cutting-edge, tactical user interface for command-and-control of counter-UAS that links sensors and effectors across installations and agencies. This integration will boost response times and strengthen national defense, enabling more agile and effective counter-UAS operations.
The task force is pioneering acquisition reform practices to ensure the services and the entire joint force receive the critical technologies they need to maintain the operational advantage and keep America safe.(Source: U.S. DoD)
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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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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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