Securing the Skies: Aaronia’s AARTOS System Safeguards Austrian Grand Prix Against Illegal Drones

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams prioritized protecting attendees, drivers, and crew members from illegal drone usage. To achieve this, they utilized the AARTOS DDS system, known for its high-speed drone detection capabilities. The system was deployed in a mobile version inside a Mercedes Sprinter, providing powerful protection against unauthorized drones at the event.

It is important for security officials at large public events to include drone detection and defense in their security plans. Even hobby drones can pose a risk that should not be overlooked, especially considering the potential for targeted attacks. Unfortunately, there is a lack of knowledge when it comes to drone detection and defense, leading to the use of inadequate or no solutions at all.

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024, security officials were already knowledgeable about AARTOS DDS due to its successful deployment at Airpower 2022. It was evident that Aaronia AG's drone protection solution would be the preferred choice for the race weekend. Aaronia's experts provide AARTOS DDS as a comprehensive service package that easily fits into the current security setup. The advanced AARTOS X9 version, housed in a specially designed Mercedes Sprinter, can be set up quickly and includes all the components needed for efficient drone protection.

The AARTOS system is able to track the location, speed, and altitude of drones quickly by scanning various frequencies. Its software, RTSA-Suite PRO, can identify most drones on the market and even take control of them if needed to safely land them. Data can be shared with authorized security authorities through a mobile app, keeping them informed of the drone's location and the operator's whereabouts in real-time for prompt action.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentioned that there were many drone sightings near no-fly zones, which required intervention. They mostly just warned the pilots, but in some cases, they had to take over the drones to land them safely. Security officials also dealt with the drone pilots during these incidents.

To make sure that spectators and drivers were protected from unauthorized drone use, safety measures were in place throughout the event. The weekend was notable for multiple crashes involving Formula 1 cars on the track, leading to an thrilling race weekend 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 fast, reliable, and efficient. They also set a new lap record at Spielberg, clocking in at 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter. This lap time is just 6:06.60 short of the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

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

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