AARTOS DDS System Enhances Security at Austrian Grand Prix with High-Speed Drone Detection Technology

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams used Aaronia's AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System to safeguard against illegal drone usage. Protecting attendees, drivers, and staff is crucial at large events, prompting the deployment of the AARTOS DDS system in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter.

It is crucial 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 their potential 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.

At the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024, security officials were already aware of 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 event. Aaronia's team provides AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service that can easily be incorporated into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed quickly and includes all the essential components for efficient drone protection.

The AARTOS system is able to accurately track the position, speed, and altitude of drones by scanning the entire frequency spectrum, including multiple frequencies simultaneously. This allows for the detection of all drones operating using radio signals. Real-time positioning of both the drone and the operator is provided by the system, with Aaronia's RTSA-Suite PRO software being essential in this process. The 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, ensuring they are always aware of the current location of the drone and operator in real time. This allows them to take appropriate action as needed.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentions that they have encountered multiple drone sightings near restricted no-fly zones and have had to intervene on several occasions. They usually give warnings to the drone pilots about their actions, but in some instances, they had to take over control of the drones to ensure they landed safely and minimize any potential risks. Additionally, security officials were also involved in managing the drone pilots during these incidents.

To prevent any dangers posed by unauthorized drone use, measures were taken to protect both the spectators and drivers throughout the event. The Formula 1 race weekend was full of thrilling moments, including some on-track collisions between the cars. The highlight of the weekend was George Russell's win for the Mercedes team, marking their first victory of the season.

During the demonstration, the Aaronia specialists showcased a drone detection system that was both quick, dependable, and effective. They also achieved a new record by completing a lap in 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting the fastest lap time for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 behind the fastest lap driven by Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin during the race.

To learn about important factors to think about regarding drone security in modern security systems, check out the e-paper from the magazine Sicherheit.

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