AARTOS DDS: The High-Speed Drone Detection System Ensuring Safety at the Austrian Grand Prix 2024

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. With the safety of spectators, drivers, and crew members being a major concern, the use of high-speed drone detection technology was essential. The AARTOS system, known as the most powerful on the market, was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter to ensure effective protection against unauthorized drone activity.

It is important for security officials at large public events to incorporate drone detection and defense measures into their security plans. The threat from drones, including hobby drones, should not be overlooked, especially considering the potential for targeted attacks. Despite the risks, there is a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, leading to the use of inadequate solutions or no measures at all.

At 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 drone protection solution would be the preferred choice for the race weekend. The specialists at Aaronia provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that smoothly fits into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 model, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed within minutes and comes equipped with all the essential components for efficient drone protection.

The AARTOS system is able to track drones in terms of their location, speed, and altitude quickly. It scans various frequencies simultaneously to detect drones using radio signals. Real-time positioning of both the drone and its operator is provided by the system, with the help of Aaronia's software RTSA-Suite PRO. This software can identify most commercial drones, take control of them when needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access all data through a mobile app, allowing them to always be aware of the drone and operator's location in real time and respond appropriately.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, stated that they had to intervene multiple times due to drones being spotted near no-fly zones. In most instances, they were able to resolve the issue by warning the pilots. However, in some cases, they had to take control of the drones and safely land them to prevent any potential danger. Security officials were also involved in handling the drone pilots during these incidents.

To prevent any unauthorized use of drones, measures were put in place to protect both spectators and drivers throughout the event. The Formula 1 weekend saw multiple crashes on the track, leading to an exciting race where George Russell clinched the first win of the season for the Mercedes team with a happy third place finish.

During the demonstration, the Aaronia specialists showcased a drone detection system that was both speedy and dependable. Additionally, they achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 seconds slower than the fastest lap driven by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about factors to take into account for drone protection as a crucial element of contemporary security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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