AARTOS DDS System Ensures Drone Security at Austrian Grand Prix: High-Speed Detection and Protection for Formula 1 Weekend in Spielberg

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams utilized the AARTOS DDS system from Aaronia to detect and prevent illegal drone activity. This system, known for its high-speed drone detection capabilities, was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter to prioritize the safety of attendees, drivers, and crews at the event. Protecting against unauthorized drone use is crucial at large gatherings, and the AARTOS system provided advanced security measures to ensure a safe environment.

It is important for security officials at large public events to incorporate drone detection and defense into their security plans. The threat of drones, including hobby drones, should not be overlooked, as they have the potential to cause harm and be used in targeted attacks. Unfortunately, there is still a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, leading to the adoption of inadequate solutions or no solutions at all.

At the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024, the security officials recognized AARTOS DDS from its previous successful deployment at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's drone protection solution would be the preferred choice for the event. Aaronia's experts provide 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 in a matter of minutes and includes all the essential components for efficient drone protection.

The system can track drones' position, speed, and altitude quickly by scanning the entire frequency spectrum. It can detect all drones using radio signals, including those operating on different frequencies simultaneously. The AARTOS system offers real-time tracking of both the drone and its operator, with the help of Aaronia’s RTSA-Suite PRO software. This software can recognize most commercially available drones, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Authorized security authorities can access all this data through a mobile app, allowing them to always be aware of the drone and operator's current location and take appropriate action.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentioned that there were many drone sightings near no-fly zones, leading to several interventions. Most of the time, warnings were enough to stop the pilots from breaking the rules. However, in some instances, they had to take over the drones and land them safely to prevent any danger. Security officials also handled the drone pilots during these incidents.

The safety of spectators and drivers was guaranteed by preventing any unauthorized use of drones throughout the event. The weekend saw multiple crashes on the racetrack involving Formula 1 cars, leading to an thrilling race weekend. George Russell secured the first win of the season for the Mercedes team, finishing in third place with a smile on his face.

During the demonstration, Aaronia experts showcased a drone detection system that was both fast, reliable, and efficient. They also achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems at the Spielberg track. Their lap time was only 6:06.60 slower than the fastest lap driven by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

To learn more about factors to keep in mind regarding drone security as a crucial component of contemporary security systems, check out the e-paper from the magazine Sicherheit.

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