High-Speed Drone Detection System AARTOS Ensures Safety at Austrian Grand Prix: How Aaronia’s Solution is Revolutionizing Security at Large Events

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams used the AARTOS DDS system by Aaronia to detect and protect against illegal drones. Ensuring the safety of the audience, drivers, and crews is crucial at large events, leading to the deployment of the powerful AARTOS system in a mobile version within a Mercedes Sprinter.

It is important for security officials at large public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. Drones, including hobby drones, can pose a significant risk and should not be underestimated, especially in terms of potential targeted attacks. Despite this, there is a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, leading to the use of inadequate solutions or none at all.

The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 had a different security setup compared to previous events. Security officials were already familiar with the successful use of AARTOS DDS at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's drone protection solution would be the top choice for ensuring safety during the race weekend. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that seamlessly fits into the current security infrastructure. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a customized Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed quickly and includes all the necessary components for effective drone protection.

The system can track drones' location, speed, and altitude quickly by scanning different frequencies in the frequency spectrum. This allows for the detection of all drones using radio signals. The AARTOS system offers real-time tracking of both the drone and the person operating it. Aaronia's RTSA-Suite PRO software is essential in this process, as it can identify most commercially available drones, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access all this data through the mobile app, enabling them to know the current location of the drone and operator in real time and take appropriate action.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, stated that they have seen many drones flying near no-fly zones and had to step in multiple times. They usually just warn the pilots to stop, but sometimes they have to take over the drones and land them safely to prevent any danger. Security officials also handle the drone pilots during these incidents.

To prevent illegal drone use, measures were put in place to ensure the safety of both spectators and drivers throughout the event. The weekend was filled with thrilling Formula 1 car crashes on the track, leading to an exciting 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.

During a demonstration, the Aaronia experts showcased a highly efficient drone detection system that also set a new record. They achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, making them the record holders for mobile drone detection systems at Spielberg. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 slower than the fastest lap of the race, which was driven by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin.

To learn more about the importance of drone protection in today's security systems, you can refer to the e-paper from Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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