Enhancing Security at the Austrian Grand Prix: Aaronia’s AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System Supports Safety Teams with Record Lap Time in Spielberg
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 illegal drones. As the safety of everyone involved in the event was a major concern, the high-speed drone detection system was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter. This highlights the increasing importance of protecting against unauthorized drone activity at large events.
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 risks they pose 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, security officials were already aware of AARTOS DDS due to its successful deployment at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's drone protection solution would be the preferred choice for ensuring security during the racing event. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that can easily be integrated into the existing 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 able to track drones in terms of their position, speed, and altitude, allowing for quick detection of drone activities. It scans various frequencies simultaneously 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 recognize 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, enabling them to always be aware of the drone and operator's current location and take appropriate action.
Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentioned that there have been many drone sightings near no-fly zones, leading to interventions by their team. They usually just warn the pilots about their actions, but in some cases, they had to take over the drones to ensure safe landing and prevent any potential risks. Security officials also handled the drone pilots during these incidents.
By implementing measures to prevent illegal drone use, both spectators and drivers were kept safe throughout the event. The Formula 1 weekend was notable for the crashes that occurred on the track, leading to an exhilarating race where George Russell won the first race of the season for the Mercedes team, finishing in third place with a smile on his face.
During the demonstration, the experts at Aaronia showcased their drone detection system as the quickest, most dependable, and effective in the industry. They also achieved a new record by completing a lap in the Mercedes Sprinter in just 7:14.29, setting the fastest time for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 away from the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin during the race.
To learn more about factors to take into account regarding drone security as a crucial component of contemporary security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.
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