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BlueBird Aero Systems Unveils MagiCam: Field-Proven Hi-Rez Tactical Mapping Solution – Day & Night

Wednesday, June 21st, 2023

[Hepher Industrial Park, Israel, June 21, 2023] – BlueBird Aero Systems, a leading innovator in unmanned aerial Tactical systems (UAS) technology, proudly introduces MagiCam, a groundbreaking 3D Hi-Rez Large Area Mapping capability integrated with the renowned autonomous UAV, the WanderB-VTOL. This cutting-edge system revolutionizes large-scale mapping operations with its advanced Imaging payload, Smart features, stealthy operation and top-of-the-line actionable products.

MagiCam offers impressive specifications and delivers unmatched performance: It provides a projected footprint of up to 40 km2/hour (2D) and up to 12 km2/hour (3D) when flying undetected at 500 meters altitude, ensuring exceptional speed and efficiency. With a 3.2cm/pixel Ground Sample Distance (GSD), the system guarantees clear and detailed imagery, while its scalable processing time delivers quick results within hours of landing. Equipped with a uniquely designed gimbaled camera, MagiCam scans the area and captures multiple geo-tagged high-resolution images for precise mapping and 3D data. It also excels in detecting and marking changes between sorties, enabling users to track alterations over time, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making.

The mapping mission is planed using intuitive interface and executed autonomously by the UAV, ensuring seamless operation.

In defense applications, MagiCam provides valuable 3D and tactical information for combat units and facilitates target positioning for smart munitions. It enables near real-time terrain and hostile situational awareness, aiding informed decision-making. The system also contributes to battle damage assessment (BDA), operational mission planning, high- accuracy measurement tools, and mission preparation 3D databases. Optional inclusion of IR thermal mapping adds versatility for night operations.

The MagiCam payload* features impressive specifications, including a 103 MP sensor, a 5-look projected image footprint, nadir imaging capabilities, an onboard processing computer, and high-speed storage in an amazing weight of 1500 grams. It supports geo- tagging and includes a calibrated lens for precise data processing.

BlueBird presents a comprehensive tactical mapping solution with MagiCam, combining high-resolution 2D and 3D mapping capabilities with autonomous, simple and undetected operation. The system excels in providing extensive coverage per flight hour, ensuring efficient mapping operations. Equipped with powerful intelligence analysis tools**, MagiCam enables advanced data analysis and interpretation, further enhancing its value.

*Payload developed by WaldoAir from Panama City Florida. WaldoAir is the main supplier of 3D mapping payload for FEMA and the Civil Air Patrol.

**Processing of images, creation of 3D database and the smart tools supported by Skyline Software Inc. software and are used by the US army geospatial centers and many other organizations around the world.

“We are thrilled to introduce MagiCam, a game-changing tactical 3D mapping solution,” says Ronen Nadir, CEO & Founder at BlueBird. “This innovative system redefines the boundaries of large area mapping, delivering exceptional 3D products, accuracy, efficiency and capabilities never seen before. MagiCam’s integration with our WanderB-VTOL UAV further enhances its capabilities, providing customers with an unparalleled solution for their mapping needs.”

www.bluebird-uav.com

Posted in International, Press Release, Sensors, UAS | Comments Off on BlueBird Aero Systems Unveils MagiCam: Field-Proven Hi-Rez Tactical Mapping Solution – Day & Night

Introducing SpyX: BlueBird Aero Systems’ Revolutionary Loitering Munition

Tuesday, June 20th, 2023

Hepher Industrial Park, Israel June 19, 2023 – BlueBird Aero Systems, an Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Group Company, unveils its SpyX, a cutting-edge Loitering Munition UAV platform designed to empower military forces with unmatched tactical capabilities such as 50Km operational range, 1.5 hours mission time, autonomous electro-optical guided attack, optimal effect-on-target and tight integration with Bluebird’s VTOL ISR UAV family. This groundbreaking technology represents a significant milestone in the evolution of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems and brings a new era of precision and efficiency to the battlefield, and in an extremely affordable price.

SpyX, developed by BlueBird Aero Systems, is an expendable electric mini-UAV, designed for loitering & strike missions, to enable tactical teams to organically detect, confirm and hit targets at ranges up to 50Km. To increase its target detection capabilities, the SpyX is integrated with a revolutionary belly-mounted dual-sensor stabilized payload and advanced video tracker, to enable autonomous and accurate electro-optical guided attack on the target. To increase its effectiveness, the 2.5Kg warhead (like combined Anti-Personnel, Anti-vehicles, or Anti-tank warheads) is loaded to the SpyX Loitering Munition just before launch, as per the required effect-on-target.

“SpyX is a game-changer in the field of military UAV platforms,” says Ronen Nadir, CEO of BlueBird Aero Systems. “We are proud to introduce this advanced system that combines innovative technology with unmatched versatility and cost-effectiveness. SpyX not only enhances situational awareness and enables precision and effective strikes, but also revolutionizes tactical battlefield superiority through its tight integration with our VTOL ISR UASs. It is a testament to our commitment to provide our customers with cutting-edge solutions that meet their evolving needs of tactical military operations”.

Key Features and Benefits of SpyX:

• Operational Range: An impressive operational range of up to 50km.

• Endurance: An impressive endurance of 1.5 hours, ensuring persistent surveillance and the ability to strike when targets are discovered and identified.

• Versatile Warhead Options: Multiple types of warheads, including anti-tank and anti-personnel/lite vehicle, ensuring optimal effectiveness against different target types.

• Agility: With a weight of only 10 kg, SpyX is a compact and agile platform, enabling rapid deployment and maneuverability in dynamic scenarios.

• High Attack Speed: With an attack-speed of 250 km/h, SpyX ensures efficient engagement of targets. The Target will not see nor hear it coming…

• Separate Warhead Storage: SpyX unique design allows the warhead to be stored separately, to enhance logistic storage capabilities, reduce the required space for safe bunker storage, and simplifies the transportation and handling of the system.

Advanced Military Operations:

SpyX revolutionizes the way tactical military operations are conducted, providing an unparalleled advantage in various scenarios:

• Precision Strikes: With a designed Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 1 meter, SpyX ensures exceptional precision in targeting to minimizes the risk to ground forces and reduces collateral damage.

• Reconnaissance and Surveillance: With its advanced dual-sensor payload, the SpyX provides real-time enhanced situational-awareness, enabling better target detection capabilities and decision-making in the field. Additionally, BlueBird’s unique open architecture design allows for joint reconnaissance and target detection efforts by integrating SpyX with BlueBird’s VTOL ISR UASs such as WanderB-VTOL and ThunderB-VTOL UAS. This collaborative approach enhances the mission effectiveness by allowing target detection before launching SpyX, while covering larger areas for longer time using VTOL UAVs, maximizing operational efficiency.

• Force Protection: Safeguard military personnel and critical infrastructure by identifying and neutralizing threats efficiently and effectively. SpyX’s versatile warhead options allow for adaptable mission planning, enabling precise engagement of both armored targets and personnel or light vehicles.

For more information about SpyX and BlueBird’s range of UAS solutions, please visit www.bluebird-uav.com.

Posted in International, Munitions, Press Release, Sensors, UAS | Comments Off on Introducing SpyX: BlueBird Aero Systems’ Revolutionary Loitering Munition

DroneShield and Epirus Complete Integration

Sunday, June 18th, 2023

DroneShield and Epirus, Inc (Epirus) have completed integration of DroneShield’s multi-sensor DroneSentry system with Epirus’ Leonidas high-power microwave (HPM) counter-electronics/counter-UAS effector.

The integration of these two systems allows for a fully integrated C-UAS system that can track multiple threats and then engage with high-powered microwave countermeasures that will provide critical defensive capabilities for our military, government and other customers.

DroneSentry incorporates radiofrequency, radar and electro-optic detection and tracking system as well as smart jamming UAS defeat module, powered by its cutting edge DroneSentry-C2 command-and-control system.

Epirus’ Leonidas is a counter-electronics system with the power and precision to neutralize a single threat in tight, crowded spaces or disable multiple threats across a wide area simultaneously. Epirus’ revolutionary approach to directed energy allows for unmatched counter-electronics effects, dramatically reduces the size and weight of the system and enables greater operator control and safety. Mounted on a gimbal to increase manoeuvrability, the system can be deployed as a fixed or mobile capability enabling wide-area rapid response.

Epirus was awarded a US$66 million US Government contract earlier this year for the stand-alone Leonidas systems.

The combined system provides significantly expanded options for the DoD, and in time, global customer base.

Epirus CEO, Ken Bedingfield, commented: “Epirus and DroneShield share common ethos of rapid pace, high tech innovation, to provide the warfighter with advanced technologies to protect against the rapidly rising threat of drones and other electronic threats. We are pleased to continue deepening the engagement over time.”

Posted in Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on DroneShield and Epirus Complete Integration

3 GA-ASI Engineers Win Award From AIAA

Friday, June 16th, 2023

Leon Alvarez, James McPherson and Terry von Klein Receive AIAA San Diego Section Awards

SAN DIEGO – 13 June 2023 – Three senior engineers from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) were honored with awards from the San Diego section of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) in the areas of outstanding aerospace engineering and engineering management. The awards were presented at an event hosted by the AIAA on May 21, 2023. GA-ASI is a leading employer in the San Diego area and manufacturer of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems solutions.

Leon Alvarez, James McPherson and Walter (Terry) von Klein were the three GA-ASI engineers who were honored with awards.

“We are very proud of the important contributions of Leon, James and Terry,” said GA-ASI Vice President of Engineering Dee Wilson. “As the world leader in unmanned systems, engineering is the lifeblood of our company. These engineers have helped to pioneer the development of new and innovative technologies that are utilized on our UAS platforms, which are critical to U.S. national security and throughout the world.”

Leon Alvarez is technical director for GA-ASI’s Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Group, and is the company’s leader in development of a revolutionary technology for GA-ASI’s aircraft – Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capability (ATLC) utilizing only onboard sensors. He has worked as a leader over 15 years on the architecture and development of the technology and is integral in the deployment of ATLC as a key enabler of GA-ASI’s line of unmanned aircraft that are deployed with customers around the world and has zero mishaps after more than 130,000 takeoff and landing events.

James McPherson is GA-ASI’s program manager for U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) programs and was awarded for outstanding contributions to aerospace management. He manages technical projects involving GA-ASI’s USMC customer, including all training and sustainment for the USMC MUX Program and support of the USMC’s Service Level Training Exercises where he has led a team of project managers, engineers, technicians, mechanics, and aircrew to a Link 16 solution without impacting a rigorous flight schedule.

Finally, Terry von Klein, GA-ASI engineering director for Flight Technologies and Advanced Programs, was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from AIAA for his outstanding contributions to GNC activities on all GA-ASI platforms. Over the course of his 36-year career, which also included stops at Northrop Grumman and Boeing, he had significant impact on aerospace engineering, primarily in GNC and flight simulation across programs as diverse as C-17, X-48B, ATT, MD-11, MQ-1, MQ-9, and numerous advanced and novel systems. His work has been published by AIAA and NASA, and he holds a patent for a novel method of automatic control of a vehicle.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on 3 GA-ASI Engineers Win Award From AIAA

GA-ASI Seaguardian Supports Northern Edge 2023

Monday, June 12th, 2023

Flights Featured ESM, COMINT, Detect and Avoid, AIS, and Link 16 Capabilities

SAN DIEGO – 07 June 2023 – As part of a U.S. Navy contract, an MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Unmanned Aircraft System from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) supported the NORTHERN EDGE 2023 (NE23) exercise May 8-19, 2023. The training exercise, which took place in the Gulf of Alaska, was one of a series of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (IPACOM) exercises that prepares joint forces to respond to crises in the Asia Pacific region.

GA-ASI’s SeaGuardian is a maritime derivative of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and remains the first UAS that offers multi-domain Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Targeting (ISR&T) and has an internal payload suite that can prosecute surface and subsurface targets in support of Fleet Operations.

During NE23, SeaGuardian provided real-time Maritime ISR&T data feeds to the various IPACOM operations centers including Pacific Fleet, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Joint Exercise Control Group (JECG) and various exercise and real-world watch floors. Real-time sensor data – including Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), radar, and full-motion video – was Processed, Exploited and Disseminated (PED) by operators via Minotaur Mission System. The Minotaur system was developed by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. It links sensors, SIGINT, cameras, radar and communications equipment into a single, automated system that allows operators to more efficiently identify, track and target simultaneously with other users for expedited dynamic tasking. This classified data was transmitted to the Joint Fires Network using new DoD technologies allowing for the smart routing of communications between widely distributed communications nodes.

In addition, SeaGuardian showcased an array of operational payloads, including Electronic Support Measures (ESM), Radar Moving Target Indication (MTI) and Inverse Synthetic-Aperture Radar (ISAR), Communication Intelligence (COMINT), Automatic Identification System (AIS), high-definition Electro-Optical/Infra-Red (EO/IR) imaging system and Link 16.

The ESM payload on SeaGuardian was supplied by Sierra Nevada Corporation and the COMINT payload was made by L3Harris Technologies. The aircraft featured the SeaVue Multi-role radar from Raytheon Technologies. GA-ASI’s Link 16 solution leveraged the L3Harris Small Tactical Terminal (STT) KOR-24A radio and Ultra Electronics Air Defense Systems Integrator (ADSI) host software ran on the Parry Labs Stellar Relay Common Compute Module.

The GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid (DAA) system was also installed in SeaGuardian and received a limited certification from NAVAIR. This enabled SeaGuardian to perform beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations within the exercise airspace.

SeaGuardian’s multi-domain capabilities allows it to flex from mission to mission and pass real-time sensor data directly to the fleet through Link 16 and satellite feeds to the shore-based command and intelligence centers. During NE23, the MQ-9B effectively passed ISR&T information to various surface and air units, and a litany of other U.S. and foreign units taking part in the exercise.

In addition to its contributions to the exercise, the SeaGuardian self-deployed from GA-ASI’s Desert Horizons flight operations facility in El Mirage, Calif., to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, covering over 2,000 nautical miles in a single flight and demonstrated SeaGuardian’s unrivalled expeditionary attributes. The aircraft self-deployed back to El Mirage following the exercise. All flights were flown from a forward deployed Mission Command Element comprised of a Certified Ground Control Station and Mission Intelligence Station located Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, exercising UAS Expeditionary Concept of Operations (CONOPS) in support of Exercise objectives.

Posted in Press Release, Sensors, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Seaguardian Supports Northern Edge 2023

AATC Tests Enhanced Intelligence Gathering Capabilities with MQ-9 Reaper Upgrade

Monday, June 5th, 2023

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (AFNS) —

The Air National Guard-Air Force Reserve Command Test Center partnered with the 174th Attack Wing and 556th Test and Evaluation Squadron to test an upgraded satellite communications capability of the MQ-9 Reaper during exercise Northern Edge 2023 at Eielson Air Force Base.

Northern Edge 23 is a U.S. Indo-Pacific Command-sponsored, Headquarters Pacific Air Forces-led, multilateral, joint field training exercise at main operating bases Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson AFB.

The MQ-9 is a remotely piloted aircraft primarily used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Air National Guard pilots, using the SATCOM upgrade, can now fly ISR missions in real-time almost anywhere around the world from remote bases in the United States.

The MQ-9’s upgraded SATCOM system uses advanced satellite technology to transmit data and communications over long distances. It is capable of flying at high altitudes for extended periods and its sensors can provide real-time intelligence on adversary positions, movements and activities. The ANG plans to deploy the upgraded MQ-9 to support ongoing operations around the world, as well as for training exercises and other missions in support of U.S. national security objectives.

“The speed at which this modernization effort and test program has been accomplished highlights the Accelerate, Change, or Lose vision from General Brown,” said Maj. Ryan Nastase, Test Program manager.

“This SATCOM upgrade will allow pole-to-pole operations while increasing the amount of data or bandwidth the MQ-9 can transmit and receive by more than double and reducing the latency or time of transmission by a factor of 10.”

Maj Ryan Nastase, Test Program Manager

With the upgraded SATCOM capability, the MQ-9 can continue to modernize by integrating more advanced sensors that require increased bandwidth. The upgrade enhances the aircraft’s ability to provide real-time situational awareness to combatant commanders around the world.

“This upgrade is a game-changer for the MQ-9 and the Air National Guard,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Harris, Hancock Field ANG Base test pilot at Syracuse, New York. “We can better support our combatant commanders and provide critical intelligence in real-time.”

The SATCOM upgrade is one of many advancements being fielded on the MQ-9. The ANG and its partners are continually working to enhance the capabilities of these critical assets and provide combatant commanders with the best possible support.

by SSgt Van Whatcott, 162nd Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, ISR, UAS | Comments Off on AATC Tests Enhanced Intelligence Gathering Capabilities with MQ-9 Reaper Upgrade

Ministry of Defense (MoD) of Ukraine Orders Additional 300 Vector Drones from Quantum Systems

Friday, June 2nd, 2023

Germany, Munich, May 31st, 2023 – Quantum-Systems GmbH, the dual-use aerial intelligence company that provides multi-sensor data collection drones to government agencies and commercial customers, today announced an order of 300 additional mid-range reconnaissance drones type Vector™ in military support of Ukraine’s armed forces, funded by the German Government.

Founded in 2015, Quantum Systems is at the forefront of unmanned aerial system (UAS) development. Its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) systems boast industry-leading endurance, ease of operation, and reliability, exceeding the performance of conventional UAS platforms. Quantum Systems’ drones bring together the most robust and field-proven systems and commercial speed in development and innovation.

Aerial intelligence when it matters

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has placed a third order of 300 Vector™ systems, following two earlier orders of 105 Vector systems in January 2023, and 33 Vector systems in August 2022.

Since August 2022, Vector demonstrated its unprecedented performance under the most challenging conditions. Vector has been extensively used and intensively tested on the Ukrainian battlefield, where it has proven to be an asset for military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. The Vector offers unparalleled agility and rapid deployment capabilities. Ready to use in two minutes, it ensures continuous enemy target detection regardless of weather conditions, it achieves speeds of up to 72 km/h and sustains long flight times. Leveraging advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, the Vector empowers Ukrainian forces to swiftly gather critical intelligence and gain a strategic advantage.

The Ukrainian MoD’s third Vector order is a testament to Quantum Systems’ commitment to support the Ukrainian MoD in the defense of their country and signifies a crucial milestone in advancing defense capabilities and fostering innovation in UAS technology. The Vector system’s integration into the Ukrainian Armed Forces equips military personnel with advanced aerial intelligence and situational awareness, enabling enhanced decision-making and heightened operational effectiveness.

Quantum Systems proudly stands in solidarity with Ukraine, as highlighted by representatives of the Chief Intelligence Department of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense in a recent statement. Quantum Systems is pleased to reaffirm its strong partnership and unwavering support for Ukraine by delivering cutting-edge Vector drones, as per Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense contract.

Advancing Vector through battle-tested insights

The direct and immediate feedback received from the operators in the Ukrainian battlefield, as well as Quantum Systems’ commitment to enhance security capabilities through technological advancements accelerated the system’s development processes.

With on-board Artificial Intelligence, Vector provides live aerial intelligence in an efficient and user-friendly manner. The system eases the operator from constant video monitoring. Built-in algorithms allow it to automatically identify objects and immediately transmit key intelligence information to the ground. The AI Board – an NVIDIA Jetson Orin – supports and enables GNSS-denied navigation, a feature that was developed with direct feedback from the battlefield.

The self-heating Smart Battery Pack manages the power supply during operation and will extend Vector’s endurance from 120 to 180 minutes. The Battery Management System transmits the battery status and warning messages to the operator, to prevent downtime and support uninterrupted detection of enemy targets.

Vector’s unique open systems architecture encompassing both the autopilot’s hardware and software modules, allows for seamless integration of new capabilities on an ongoing basis.

Supporting Ukraine “whatever it takes”

To further support the Ukrainian forces in their defense, Quantum Systems recently opened a Service-Training-Support and Logistics (SSTLC) Facility in Ukraine. This facility provides training for operators on the use and maintenance of the Vector™ system and is the local hub for procuring spare parts and repair services.

“Quantum Systems stands firmly in support of Ukraine and their democracy, and we are dedicated to assisting them in defending their country, whatever it takes. The trust of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense in our systems holds immense significance for us. We consider it a privilege to contribute to Ukraine’s defense, and we remain committed to delivering superior systems to their armed forces. Our unwavering belief in democratic values, coupled with the daily challenges faced by Ukrainian soldiers, fuels our motivation, and accelerates our development processes.”

Florian Seibel, CEO Quantum Systems

For more information about Quantum-Systems, visit www.quantum-systems.com.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, UAS | 1 Comment »

SeaGuardian Used by USN in Support of Integrated Battle Problem

Sunday, May 21st, 2023

AN DIEGO – 18 May 2023 – In support of the U.S. Navy’s (USN) Integrated Battle Problem 2023 (IBP-23) exercise in May, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) conducted a series of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) exercises cooperatively with the USN Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons (HSM) 38, 49, 71, and 75. GA-ASI flew a company-owned MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) under a USN Flight Clearance. The HSM squadrons flew the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter flown out of Naval Air Station North Island off the coast of San Diego, Calif., on April 24-25, 2023.

The exercise was focused on Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) to conduct Cooperative ASW in the Southern California Offshore ASW range. During the two-day event, MH-60s dropped sonobuoys to detect a mobile training target. Using the combined SeaGuardian and MH-60R teaming concept, correlation and location of the target was expeditiously achieved and tactical reports – known as TACREPs – were then transmitted to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 34 Theater ASW Center at Naval Station Pearl Harbor via the MQ-9B crew. The CTF then directed a coordinated constructive “kill” of the simulated submarine with notional torpedoes dropped from the MH-60s. The ASW payload on the SeaGuardian uses the latest version of General Dynamics Mission Systems’ Sonobuoy Processor.

“These advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures utilizing MUM-T further reinforce the advantages to unmanned aircraft in combat with less risk to force,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development Patrick Shortsleeve.

The IBP-23 exercise is the third time GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SeaGuardian has supported this annual event. These exercises generate warfighting advantages for the Fleet by providing the operational environment to work through tactics, techniques, procedures, and command and control to refine and enhance warfighting. The Fleet IBP series is led by Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and executed by Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet and will continue throughout May 2023.

Posted in Maritime, Navy, UAS | Comments Off on SeaGuardian Used by USN in Support of Integrated Battle Problem