AARTOS DDS: The High-Speed Drone Detection System Ensuring Security at the Austrian Grand Prix

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams utilized the AARTOS DDS system by Aaronia to detect and prevent the use of unauthorized drones. The safety of everyone attending the event, including the audience, drivers, and crews, was a key concern. The AARTOS system, known for being the most advanced on the market, was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter to ensure maximum protection against drones.

It is important for security officials at major public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. Drones, even those used for recreational purposes, can present a significant risk and potential danger, especially when used for targeted attacks. Unfortunately, there is still a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, leading to the use of inadequate or nonexistent solutions.

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024, the security officials were already familiar with AARTOS DDS due to its successful deployment at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's solution would be the preferred option for drone protection throughout the race weekend. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a full-service package that can easily integrate into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be quickly deployed and contains all the essential components for efficient drone protection.

The AARTOS system is capable of determining the location, speed, and altitude of drones quickly. It scans various frequencies to detect any drone activity using radio signals. The system offers real-time tracking of both the drone and its operator, with the help of Aaronia's RTSA-Suite PRO software. This software can identify most commercially available drones, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access all data through a mobile app, allowing them to know the current location of the drone and its operator in real-time and respond accordingly.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, stated that they had observed many drones flying near no-fly zones and had to intervene multiple times. They usually just warned the pilots, but in some instances, they had to take control of the drones and land them safely. Security officials also dealt with the drone pilots during these incidents.

To prevent any risks posed by unauthorized drone activity, measures were in place to protect both fans and racers. Throughout the weekend, there were several crashes on the racetrack involving Formula 1 cars, leading to an exhilarating race weekend. George Russell made history by winning the first race of the season for the Mercedes team, bringing a smile to his face in the process.

At the event, the Aaronia specialists showcased their speedy and dependable drone detection system, breaking a record in the process. They achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. Their time was only 6:06.60 behind the fastest lap set during the race by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin.

To learn more about the importance of drone security in today's security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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