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

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams used Aaronia's AARTOS high-speed drone detection system to protect against unauthorized drone use. Ensuring the safety of spectators, drivers, and crew members is crucial at large events, making drone detection systems like AARTOS essential. The security teams utilized the mobile version of the AARTOS DDS system, which is known as the most powerful system available, installed in a Mercedes Sprinter.

It is important for security officials at large public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. The risk of drones, including hobby drones, should not be overlooked, as they can pose a threat 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 recognized AARTOS DDS from its effectiveness at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG’s drone protection solution would be preferred for the race weekend. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service that can easily fit into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 model, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed in a matter of minutes and comes equipped with all the tools needed for efficient drone protection.

The system is able to track drones' position, speed, and altitude quickly by scanning various frequencies in the spectrum. This allows for the detection of all drones using radio signals. The AARTOS system offers real-time tracking of both the drone and its operator, with the help of Aaronia's software RTSA-Suite PRO. This software can identify most drones on the market, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Data can be shared with authorized security agencies through a mobile app, ensuring they are always informed about the drone's location and operator in real time for appropriate action.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentions that they had to deal with multiple drone sightings near no-fly zones and had to step in several times. They mostly warned the pilots about their actions, but in some instances, they had to take over the drones and land them safely to prevent any potential danger. Security officials also assisted in handling the drone pilots during these interventions.

The safety of both spectators and drivers was guaranteed by preventing illegal drone use throughout the event. The Formula 1 weekend was characterized by collisions on the track, leading to an exciting race where George Russell achieved the first win of the season for the Mercedes team, finishing in third place with a smile.

The specialists at Aaronia showcased a drone detection system that is both quick and dependable. They also achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems at Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 slower than the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about the factors to think about regarding protecting drones as a key component of modern security systems, refer to the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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