LiveLink Aerospace has secured a significant order from the Royal Navy for its counter-drone sensor unit to bolster defence capabilities against UAS. The sensor, developed with funding from the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), is designed to detect and neutralise drones, which are increasingly posing threats to both military operations and national infrastructure.
The Royal Navy’s purchase of the sensor unit follows successful trials on its experimental ship, the XV Patrick Blackett. This marks the first time the Navy has tested the system, which was originally created through the support of DASA’s Countering Drones competition. The competition, run on behalf of the Home Office, aimed to find innovative solutions to the challenges posed by drones, particularly those that are difficult to detect using traditional radar systems due to their small size and limited radar signature.
LiveLink Aerospace’s sensor, known as the Passive Detection & Ranging (PDAR) system, offers a low-cost, scalable solution that can be quickly installed on fixed sites, mobile sites, vehicles and vessels. The system uses conventional software-defined radios and advanced AI technology to detect the radio frequencies emitted by drones. Unlike traditional systems, the PDAR operates silently, without emitting signals that could reveal its location to adversaries.
Eric Brock, LiveLink Aerospace’s Business Director, highlighted the critical role DASA played in the development of the PDAR system. He praised the agency for its support in turning a high-risk concept into a working prototype, noting that DASA’s involvement provided not only funding but also valuable guidance and streamlined processes that facilitated the project’s success.
Progressing the C-UAS market
The adoption of LiveLink Aerospace’s technology by the Royal Navy demonstrates the growing importance of contre-drone systems in modern defence strategies. The company’s success in adapting its CUAS technology for maritime use also reflects the broader trend of leveraging civilian innovations for military purposes, a strategy increasingly employed by defence organisations worldwide.
Following the successful trials aboard the XV Patrick Blackett, LiveLink Aerospace is now focused on expanding its team and enhancing its C-UAS technology to meet rising demand. The company is committed to further collaboration with defence and security partners to ensure that counter-drone systems become a standard feature in protecting valuable assets, much like CCTV has become ubiquitous in security infrastructure.
Looking ahead, LiveLink Aerospace plans to continue developing advanced air defence technologies, including alternative systems for position, navigation, timing and communication that do not rely on vulnerable satellite infrastructure. As drone threats persist, the company’s innovations are set to play a crucial role in safeguarding both military and civilian interests.
Crédit photographique : LiveLink Aerospace
