Can NATO’s CUAS marketplace turn urgent demand into deliveries?
Framework contracts and leasing options aim to shorten acquisition timelines, while manufacturing partnerships could help suppliers scale production to meet allied demand.
Sky-High involves the integration of an aerostat, mini-quadcopter and small ATV. (Photo: RT LTA)
Sky-High involves integration of the CopterPix ERE-95 mini quadcopter UAV with the SkyStar 120 through a controller, radio link and console all from a small Can-Am two-seat all-terrain vehicle but the vehicle is agnostic, according to the company.
It is intended for use in a range of tactical missions including intelligence collection in both open and urban areas, as well as the protection of strategic assets and military activities including guiding interception forces.
A day/night camera is mounted on the aerostat which is integrated with the ERE-95. This integrated system enables scanning the area for detection, identification and response – covering a radius of 5km. The system is designed to be deployed in 20 minutes under a variety of field conditions and requires only two personnel.
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In a statement the company said: ‘The sensors of both the aerostat’s payload and the drone’s payload are easily operated and managed by a single portable control unit. The system enables synchronised control via wireless communications over the aerostat and the drone using one console, even if they are located at a distance from each other.’
Framework contracts and leasing options aim to shorten acquisition timelines, while manufacturing partnerships could help suppliers scale production to meet allied demand.
The US is pursuing multiple UGV programmes, from commercial robotic platforms to new autonomy technologies. The combination of these efforts could prove key to turning ambition into operational capability.
NATO is looking to artificial intelligence to provide integration between different C2 systems to create a common operational picture, potentially offering a faster route to interoperability than the slow-moving processes of NATO standards committees.
The large-scale exercise in Latvia was the culmination of three experimentation initiatives to see how platforms, weapons and systems could fit into the alliance’s Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative. As well as forces, it brought together companies and equipment.
Canada plans to acquire at least 120 uncrewed aerial systems through two competitions with combined funding ceilings of C$32 million.
New counter-drone technologies, autonomous launchers and manufacturing modernisation initiatives highlighted emerging opportunities for defence suppliers, while the UK advanced a major military vehicle procurement programme.