High-Speed Drone Detection System AARTOS Ensures Safety at Austrian Grand Prix: How Aaronia’s Technology Supports Security Teams During Formula 1 Weekend in Spielberg

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams utilized Aaronia's high-speed drone detection system, AARTOS, to safeguard against illegal drone activity. With the safety of attendees, drivers, and crew members being paramount, the deployment of the AARTOS DDS system was crucial. The mobile version of the powerful AARTOS system was implemented in a Mercedes Sprinter to ensure maximum protection against drones.

It is crucial for security officials at large public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. The threat posed by drones, including seemingly harmless 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 had experience with using AARTOS DDS successfully at Airpower 2022, leading them to choose Aaronia AG’s solution for drone protection during the race weekend. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that can easily be integrated into the current security system. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, which is installed in a customized Mercedes Sprinter, can be quickly deployed and comes equipped with everything needed for efficient drone protection.

The system is able to track drones' position, speed, and altitude quickly by scanning various frequencies to detect radio signals from any drones in the area. The AARTOS system, along with Aaronia's software RTSA-Suite PRO, can accurately locate both the drone and its operator in real-time. This software can identify most commercially available drones, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access this data through a mobile app to stay informed about the drone's location and the operator's whereabouts in order to respond appropriately.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, stated that they had to address multiple drone sightings near no-fly zones. They had to intervene several times, mostly by warning the pilots of their wrongdoing. In a few instances, they had to take control of the drones and safely land them to prevent any potential risks. Security officials also assisted in handling the drone pilots during these incidents.

This measure guaranteed that spectators and drivers were protected from unauthorized drone activity throughout the entire event. The weekend featured multiple crashes on the race track involving Formula 1 cars, leading to an exhilarating race weekend where George Russell clinched the first win of the season for the Mercedes team with a happy third place finish.

The experts at Aaronia showcased their top-performing drone detection system, which is not only quick and dependable but also efficient. They also achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in the Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 behind the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about factors to keep in mind regarding the security of drones as a crucial component of contemporary security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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