In a significant advancement in counter-drone technology, Ukraine has developed the Aero Azimuth system, a balloon-carried electronic surveillance platform designed to detect and locate enemy drone operators. Developed by Ukrainian company Kvertus, known for its electronic warfare expertise, the system was recently showcased at a counter-drone technology exhibition.
The Aero Azimuth combines Kvertus’ existing ground-based Azimuth system with an aerostat provided by Aerobavovna, another Ukrainian firm. This airborne adaptation significantly enhances the system’s capabilities:
- Detection range extended to 60 kilometers (37 miles)
- Triangulation of targets possible at 24-30 kilometers (15-19 miles)
- Operational altitude between 300-700 meters (1,000-2,300 feet)
- Aerostat can remain airborne for up to seven days
The system’s primary function is to detect radio-frequency signals from Russian drone operators, including communication channels, telemetry, and data exchange. This information allows Ukrainian forces to target the operators directly, potentially neutralizing multiple drones at once.
Aero Azimuth’s deployment comes amid the increasing prevalence of drones in modern warfare, particularly first-person view (FPV) models. By focusing on operators rather than individual drones, the system offers a more strategic approach to counter-drone efforts.
The use of aerostats in military operations isn’t new, with both Russia and Ukraine employing them for various purposes, including reconnaissance and signal relay. However, the Aero Azimuth represents a novel application in the ongoing drone warfare.
While it’s unclear if the system has been deployed in active combat, its development underscores the evolving nature of electronic warfare and the critical role of innovative technologies in modern conflicts. As drone usage continues to expand, systems like Aero Azimuth may become increasingly vital in maintaining battlefield advantage.
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