Securing the Skies: Aaronia’s AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System Ensures Safety at Austrian Grand Prix

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, the security teams prioritized the safety of everyone involved, including the audience, drivers, and crews. To prevent the use of illegal drones, they utilized the AARTOS DDS system, the most powerful system available, in a mobile version housed in a Mercedes Sprinter. Detection of high-speed drones was supported by Aaronia's technology, ensuring the event's security.

The use of drone detection and defense technology is now essential for security officials at large public events. Even seemingly harmless hobby drones can pose a risk, and there is 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, the security officials were already familiar with AARTOS DDS due to its successful use at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's drone protection solution would be the preferred choice for the race weekend. The experts at Aaronia provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that can easily be integrated into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be deployed in a matter of minutes and comes equipped with everything needed for efficient drone protection.

The system is able to track the position, speed, and altitude of drones quickly. It scans all frequencies to detect drones using radio signals. The AARTOS system provides real-time location information for both the drone and its operator, with the help of Aaronia's RTSA-Suite PRO software. This software can identify most drones on the market, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access this data through a mobile app to stay informed about the drone's location and operator in real-time.

Stephan Kraschansky, CEO of Aaronia Austria, stated that there were many sightings of drones near no-fly zones, leading to several interventions. Most of the time, warnings were enough to stop the pilots from violating the rules, but in a few instances, they had to take control of the drones and land them safely to prevent any danger. Security officials also dealt with the drone pilots during these incidents.

Security measures were put in place to protect spectators and drivers from unauthorized drone activity throughout the event. The weekend was filled with collisions on the racetrack involving Formula 1 cars, leading to an exhilarating race weekend where George Russell claimed the Mercedes team's first win of the season with a joyous third place finish.

The Aaronia specialists showcased a drone detection system that is both speedy and dependable, setting a new record in the process. They achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, making them the record holders for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. Their time was only 6:06.60 behind the fastest lap of the race, which was set by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin.

To learn more about important factors to think about in terms of protecting drones as a key element of today's security systems, check out the e-paper by Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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