High-Speed Drone Detection System AARTOS Ensures Security at Austrian Grand Prix: A Game-Changer in Event Protection

During the Formula 1 weekend in Spielberg, the Austrian Grand Prix utilized Aaronia's AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System to support security teams in safeguarding against illegal drone use. With the safety of attendees, drivers, and staff being paramount, the AARTOS DDS system was deployed to provide protection against drones. The system, known as the most powerful on the market, was utilized in a mobile version housed in a Mercedes Sprinter for increased flexibility and efficiency.

Security officials at large public events should now prioritize incorporating drone detection and defense measures 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. Despite this, there is a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, which can result in the use of inadequate solutions or no protection at all.

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024, security officials opted for AARTOS DDS for drone protection after witnessing its successful use at Airpower 2022. Aaronia AG's solution was chosen as the top choice for ensuring security during the race weekend. The experts at Aaronia provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that easily fits into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be quickly deployed and contains all the essential components for effective drone protection.

The AARTOS system is able to track and monitor drones by determining their position, speed, and altitude. It scans the entire frequency spectrum to detect drone activities 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 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 always be aware of the current location of the drone and its operator in real time.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, stated that they have encountered multiple drone sightings near no-fly zones and have had to intervene on several occasions. Most of the time, they were able to warn the pilots about their actions. However, in some 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.

Security measures were in place to protect spectators and drivers from unauthorized drone activity throughout the event. The Formula 1 race weekend was eventful, with multiple crashes on the track. George Russell of the Mercedes team secured their first victory of the season, ending the weekend on a high note.

The experts from Aaronia showcased a drone detection system that is not only fast, reliable, and efficient but also broke a record. They set a lap time of 7:14.29 in the Mercedes Sprinter, making them the record holders for the fastest mobile drone detection system in Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 slower than the fastest lap of the race, which was set by Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin.

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

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