Dedrone by Axon has partnered with Thales Australia to integrate a counter-UAS system into tactical vehicles, aiming to enhance military protection against drone threats. The collaboration involves equipping Thales’ Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle (PMV) with Dedrone’s detection, tracking, identification and mitigation system, enabling real-time drone defense while on the move.
The combined system, DedroneOnTheMove (DedroneOTM), uses passive radio frequency detection sensors and DedroneTracker.AI software to identify and counter drones in operational environments. According to the companies, recent testing near Thales’ Bendigo, Australia facility demonstrated successful detection and mitigation of Group 1 and 2 drones while the Bushmaster was in motion.
Vehicle-mounted C-UAS
DedroneOTM is designed to be adaptable to different vehicle platforms, with an open architecture that allows for the integration of various kinetic and non-kinetic mitigation tools. The system provides real-time airspace monitoring to vehicle occupants, aiming to enhance situational awareness and security in combat scenarios.
Dedrone’s counter-drone technology is currently deployed in 33 countries, including installations at government agencies, airports and security-sensitive locations. The company states that its solutions are used by multiple G-7 nations and U.S. federal entities.
The Bushmaster PMV, which has been deployed by nine nations including Australia, the UK and Ukraine, is known for its armored protection and adaptability in combat environments. Thales Australia has continued to update the vehicle with new capabilities, including enhanced armor, digital displays and cold-weather kits. The integration of Dedrone’s counter-UAS system marks an effort to modernize the platform for evolving battlefield threats.
Jeff Connolly, CEO of Thales Australia, stated that the collaboration reflects lessons learned from conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, where drone threats have played a significant role:
“Together with Dedrone, we are ensuring the Bushmaster remains fit for purpose in both current and future conflicts,” he said.
Dedrone and Thales Australia have positioned this partnership as a step toward providing militaries with adaptable counter-drone solutions, as unmanned aerial threats continue to play an increasing role in modern warfare.
