Ensuring Safety at the Austrian Grand Prix: How Aaronia’s AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System Protected the Formula 1 Weekend in Spielberg

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams utilized Aaronia's AARTOS high-speed drone detection system to safeguard against unauthorized drone use. The system, known for its effectiveness, was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter to prioritize the safety of attendees, drivers, and crews. Protecting against illegal drones has become increasingly crucial at large events like this.

It is important for security officials at large public events to include drone detection and defense in their security plans. The threat of drones, including seemingly harmless 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 no solutions 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 solution would be the preferred option for drone protection at the race weekend. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that can easily be integrated into the current security system. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be quickly deployed and includes all the essential components for efficient drone protection.

The system can determine the location, speed, and altitude of drones, allowing for quick detection of drone activities. It scans different frequencies simultaneously to detect all drones using radio signals. The AARTOS system provides 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 commercially available drones, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. The data can be shared with authorized security authorities through a mobile app, allowing them to know the current location of the drone and operator in real-time and take appropriate action.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, reported that there were many instances of drones being spotted near no-fly zones, leading to interventions by the company. Most of the time, warnings were sufficient to address the issue, but in some cases, they had to take over control of the drones to ensure safety and prevent any potential risks. Security officials also assisted in managing the drone pilots during these incidents.

To protect both spectators and drivers from unauthorized drone activity, safety measures were in place throughout the event. The weekend was characterized by multiple crashes during Formula 1 races, leading to an exhilarating race weekend. George Russell achieved the first win of the season for the Mercedes team, finishing in third place with a smile on his face.

The experts from Aaronia showcased a drone detection system that is fast, reliable, and efficient, setting a new record in the process. They achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, making them the fastest mobile drone detection system in Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 behind the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about the important factors to keep in mind regarding drone security in today's security systems, check out the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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