WDS 2022: AI software enhances Tekever maritime patrol UAS
Tekever AR5 maritime surveillance UAS. (Photo: Tekever)
The Tekever AR5 UAS now includes a passive image-based radar system that uses AI software.
The PT-8 Oceanwatch AI-based payload from Ocean Imaging has been integrated for 360° automatic small target detection aboard the Tekever AR5 MALE maritime surveillance UAS.
Announcing the development on 7 March during the World Defense Show 2022 in Riyadh, Tekever added that the sensor ‘automatically detects targets, and allows the operator to recognise and validate the information’.
Tiago Nunes, product director at Portugal-based Tekever, said: ‘Because it’s based on visual data, the PT-8 Oceanwatch allows us to consider very significant information for automatic classification, such as the colour of the targets. We believe it will greatly help us improve mission effectiveness.’
The AR5 can either be flown manually or commanded to perform specific missions fully autonomously. Seamless transitions between an LoS data link and a high-speed BLOS SATCOM data link ensure that communications between the UAS and its operating station remain reliable and secure at any range.
PT-8 Oceanwatch is a passive image-based radar system that enables a much faster search for small or long-range maritime objects compared to traditional maritime patrol systems that use video or human-based search alone.
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
![Final delivery of Danish autonomous MCM system imminent]()
Final delivery of Danish autonomous MCM system imminent
The Royal Danish Navy is boosting its autonomous mine countermeasures capabilities by procuring new uncrewed underwater systems.
-
![Researchers examine new USV design methods]()
Researchers examine new USV design methods
A team at the University of Maine will define a path forward to support advanced manufacturing of USVs, under a contract from the US Office of Naval Research.
-
![Insitu to provide more Blackjacks and ScanEagles to US and allies]()
Insitu to provide more Blackjacks and ScanEagles to US and allies
Insitu receives order for 13 Blackjack and 25 ScanEagle UAVs.
-
![MSPO 2022: First batch of crowdfunded Warmate loitering munitions arrives in Ukraine]()
MSPO 2022: First batch of crowdfunded Warmate loitering munitions arrives in Ukraine
Ukraine ordered 40 Warmates, half of which have already reached frontline units with the remainder to arrive by the end of September.
-
Expert claims ‘decentralised’ approach holds back USAF next-generation UAV ambitions
Despite a number of Skyborg test successes, a defence expert has questioned how the development of next generation drones will advance without activities being concentrated and clear requirements set out.
