Austrian Grand Prix: AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System Ensures Security at Formula 1 Weekend in Spielberg

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams used Aaronia's AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System to protect against illegal drone use. Safeguarding the audience, drivers, and crews from potential threats posed by drones is a critical aspect of security at large events. The AARTOS DDS system, known for its powerful capabilities, was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter to ensure comprehensive drone detection and protection.

It is important for security officials at large public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. The threat posed by drones, including hobby drones, should not be overlooked, especially considering the potential for targeted attacks. Unfortunately, there is a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, leading to the use of inadequate solutions or none at all.

The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 had a different security setup compared to previous events. 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 choice for drone protection during the race weekend. The experts at Aaronia provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that seamlessly fits into the current security system. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, which is installed in a customized Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed quickly and includes all the necessary components for effective drone protection.

The AARTOS system is capable of determining the location, speed, and altitude of drones quickly. It scans various frequencies to detect all drones using radio signals. The system provides 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 drones on the market, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access all data through a mobile app, allowing them to always know the current location of the drone and its operator in real time.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentioned that they have encountered many drones flying near no-fly zones and had to intervene multiple times. They usually just warned the pilots about their actions, but in some instances, they had to take control of the drones and safely land them to prevent any potential dangers. Security officials also handled the situation with the drone pilots.

This was done to make sure that spectators and drivers were protected from unauthorized drone use throughout the event. The weekend was filled with crashes on the race track involving Formula 1 cars, leading to an exciting race weekend where George Russell won the first race of the season for the Mercedes team with a happy third place finish.

During the demonstration, the experts from Aaronia showcased a drone detection system that was not only fast, reliable, and efficient but also broke a record. They achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems at the Spielberg track. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 behind the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about factors to keep in mind regarding drone protection in modern security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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