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

During the Formula 1 weekend in Spielberg, the Austrian Grand Prix utilized Aaronia's AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System to enhance security measures. With the rise of illegal drone use at major events, protecting the safety of attendees, drivers, and crews has become a crucial focus. The security teams at the Grand Prix utilized the AARTOS DDS system, known for being the most powerful on the market, in a mobile version installed in a Mercedes Sprinter.

It is crucial for security officials at major public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. The threat posed by drones, including those used for recreational purposes, should not be overlooked, especially considering their potential for targeted attacks. Unfortunately, there is a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, resulting in 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 deployment at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's drone protection solution would be the top choice for ensuring security during the race weekend. The experts at Aaronia provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that easily integrates into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 model, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed quickly and comes equipped with all the tools needed for efficient drone protection.

The system can track drones' position, speed, and altitude quickly and accurately. It scans all radio frequencies to detect any drone signals, using simultaneous scans to cover a wide range. The AARTOS 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. Data can be shared with authorized security authorities through a mobile app, allowing them to always know the drone and operator's current location in real time and respond appropriately.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentions that there have been many sightings of drones near no-fly zones, leading to interventions by their team. They usually warn the pilots about their actions, but in some cases, they had to take over control of the drones to land them safely. Security officials also handled the drone pilots during these incidents.

To prevent any unauthorized drone activity, measures were taken to protect both spectators and drivers during the event. Throughout the weekend, there were collisions on the race track involving Formula 1 cars, resulting in an exhilarating race weekend. George Russell made history by securing the first win of the season for the Mercedes team, ending the weekend with a smile on his face.

The experts at Aaronia showcased a drone detection system that was both quick, dependable, and effective. 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 slower than the fastest lap driven by Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about the importance of drone security in modern security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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