Jammer resistant drone designs spark search for countermeasures
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has driven another stage of evolution for drones and the counter measures to defend against them.
Raytheon UK and Milrem have unveiled an IED detection platform featuring Milrem’s THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) and Raytheon’s GroundEye sensor system.
The THeMIS is a fully modular hybrid UGV with a payload of 750kg and it can be used as a Counter Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) platform.
GroundEye offers real-time imaging technology that can show the orientation, shape and size of explosive ordnance threats without disturbing the ground.
GroundEye is independent of physical attributes of the device emplaced, and remains effective irrespective of the metal content in the target. It can be operated from a rugged tactical computer and can automatically geo-tag all explosive ordnance hazard/IED imagery for intelligence collection and After Action Review.
Andy Gibson, head of land systems and defence at Raytheon UK, said: ‘GroundEye offers a solution to confirm and diagnose capability gap experienced on explosive ordnance and IED clearance operations. It is a significant step forward in manoeuvre support capability allowing for the maintenance of momentum and reducing unnecessary dismounted exposure. The system can be used in several forms and is platform agnostic. We are delighted to be integrated onto Milrem’s flexible and multi-purpose unmanned ground vehicle as a demonstration of this capability.’
Kuldar Väärsi, chief executive officer of Milrem, said: ‘Detecting and disarming IED’s is a natural role for unmanned vehicles. With its innovative modular and flexible approach, THeMis makes it possible to use the same UGV platform for multiple purposes. We are thrilled to work with Raytheon to integrate THeMIS with highly accurate, real-time imaging technology from GroundEye, bringing IED detection capabilities to a whole new level.’
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has driven another stage of evolution for drones and the counter measures to defend against them.
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