Enhancing Security at the Austrian Grand Prix: Aaronia’s AARTOS Drone Detection System Takes Center Stage
During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams utilized the AARTOS DDS system by Aaronia to detect and protect against illegal drones. The safety of the audience, drivers, and crews was a major concern, highlighting the importance of drone detection at large events. The AARTOS system, known for being the most powerful on the market, was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter to ensure comprehensive protection.
It is important for security officials at major public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. Drones, including hobby drones, can pose serious risks and potential dangers 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 solutions or none at all.
During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024, the security officials were already familiar with AARTOS DDS due to its successful implementation at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's solution would be the preferred option for drone protection at the race event. The specialists at Aaronia provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service that can easily fit into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed in a matter of minutes and contains all the essential components for efficient drone security.
The AARTOS system uses advanced technology to track the location, speed, and altitude of drones quickly. By scanning various frequencies simultaneously, the system can detect all drones that use radio signals. The system also provides real-time tracking of both the drone and the person operating it. This is made possible through Aaronia's specialized software, RTSA-Suite PRO, which can recognize most commercially available drones, take control of them if needed, and safely bring them back to the ground. Authorized security authorities can access this data via a mobile app, allowing them to stay informed about the drone's location and the operator's whereabouts in real-time and take appropriate actions.
Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentioned that there were many instances of drones being spotted near no-fly zones, leading to interventions by the company. Most of the time, warnings were enough to stop the pilots from breaking the rules. However, in a few cases, the company had to take control of the drones and safely land them to prevent any potential danger. Security officials also handled the drone pilots during these incidents.
Safety measures were put in place to protect spectators and drivers from unauthorized drone activity throughout the weekend. The Formula 1 race weekend was eventful with several on-track collisions, leading to an exciting finish where George Russell claimed the Mercedes team's first win of the season as the third place finisher.
The experts from Aaronia showcased a drone detection system that was both fast and reliable, setting a new record in the process. They achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, making them the fastest mobile drone detection system in Spielberg. 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 the important factors to consider for protecting drones as part of modern security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.
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