Latest Purchase Enhances Mobile Detection Capabilities for Counter-Drone Operations
The Dutch Ministry of Defense has confirmed an additional order of 51 drone radars from Robin Radar Systems, based in The Hague. This order, signed on August 21, follows an initial procurement of 51 static IRIS drone radars, which were acquired 18 months ago. The new batch of radars will be donated to Ukraine later this year to support its defense against drone attacks.
The latest order introduces a significant enhancement: on-the-move (OTM) functionality. Unlike traditional radar systems, which are typically stationary and mounted on fixed platforms like buildings or tripods, OTM systems are designed to operate effectively while mounted on mobile objects such as vehicles or ships.
Robin Radar Systems’ IRIS drone radars are specifically engineered to detect small, fast, and elusive drones. They are also capable of distinguishing drones from birds and other flying objects. The addition of OTM functionality further extends their capability, allowing the radar to perform while in motion.
This technological advancement requires sophisticated systems to compensate for motion-induced effects, which can impact coverage, accuracy, and line of sight. Despite these challenges, Robin’s drone radars offer full 360° monitoring, providing early warnings and precise updates even when the system is moving at high speeds. This enhancement significantly improves the agility, coverage, and adaptability of defense and security operations.
Strategic Impact and Deployment in Ukraine
The deployment of these radars is expected to enhance the precision and resilience of Ukraine’s defense measures against drone attacks. Mobile detection systems are harder to locate and neutralize, offering uninterrupted surveillance and enabling defense teams to continuously detect and disable enemy drones.
The Dutch Ministry of Defense emphasized the importance of this donation, stating, “The Ministry of Defence is expected to donate the 51 radars to Ukraine in the last quarter of 2024. They will be sent there in phases. In Ukraine, they are essential to counter drone attacks from Russia.”
This purchase also supports the development of Dutch defense systems. The contract has enabled Robin Radar Systems to scale up production, with the company now producing four radars per week. This expansion ensures that the company continues to innovate and supply critical technologies for frontline operations.
The radars will be supplied to Ukraine in phases, with deployment expected to begin in the last quarter of 2024. These systems will play a crucial role in countering drone threats, particularly from Russian forces.
In summary, this strategic purchase by the Dutch Ministry of Defense not only enhances Ukraine’s defense capabilities but also bolsters the ongoing development of advanced radar technologies. The investment underscores the importance of mobile detection systems in modern warfare, providing critical support to Ukrainian forces in their efforts to defend against drone attacks.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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