Enhancing Security at the Austrian Grand Prix: AARTOS High-Speed Drone Detection System Supports Formula 1 Weekend in Spielberg

During the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Austrian Grand Prix 2024 in Spielberg, security teams utilized Aaronia's high-speed drone detection system, AARTOS, to safeguard against illegal drone activity. With the safety of attendees, drivers, and personnel being paramount, the deployment of the AARTOS DDS system in a mobile version within a Mercedes Sprinter ensured comprehensive protection against drones, making it the most powerful system available on the market.

It is important for security officials at big public events to include drone detection and defense in their security plans. Drones, even those used for hobbies, can pose a risk and potential danger for targeted attacks. Unfortunately, there is still a lack of knowledge in the field of drone detection and defense, leading to inadequate solutions being used or sometimes no measures taken at all.

During 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 ensuring security during the race weekend. Aaronia's experts 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 quickly deployed and contains all the necessary components for efficient drone protection.

The system can track the location, speed, and altitude of drones quickly and accurately. It scans all frequencies to detect drones using radio signals. The AARTOS system offers real-time tracking of both the drone and its operator, with help from Aaronia's RTSA-Suite PRO software. This software can identify most commercial drones, take control of them if needed, and safely land them. Data can be shared with authorized security agencies through a mobile app, allowing them to know the drone and operator's location in real-time for appropriate action.

Stephan Kraschansky, the CEO of Aaronia Austria, mentioned that there were many drone sightings near no-fly zones. They had to step in multiple times to handle the situation. Usually, a warning was enough to stop the pilots from breaking the rules. But in some instances, they had to take control of the drones and land them safely to prevent any potential danger. Security officials also dealt with the drone pilots during these incidents.

To guarantee the protection of both spectators and drivers, measures were put in place to prevent unauthorized drone usage throughout the event. The weekend featured several on-track collisions involving Formula 1 cars, leading to an exhilarating race weekend that saw George Russell clinch the first win of the season for the Mercedes team, finishing in third place with a smile on his face.

During the event, the Aaronia specialists showcased a drone detection system that was both quick and dependable. They also achieved a lap time of 7:14.29 in a Mercedes Sprinter, setting a new record for mobile drone detection systems in Spielberg. This time was only 6:06.60 short of the fastest lap set by Fernando Alonso in an Aston Martin during the race.

To learn about the important factors to consider in protecting drones as a crucial component of contemporary security systems, check out the e-paper provided by Sicherheit. Das Fachmagazin.

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