ASUL is part of a modular counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) designed to support comprehensive air defence. It utilises a scalable combination of active and passive radar systems, electro-optical sensors, and various countermeasures to enable the detection and identification of small unmanned aircraft systems. The system also provides effective means to counter identified threats.
ASUL was developed by ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH, a subsidiary of HENSOLDT, and delivered to the German Armed Forces in 2022. Since its introduction, ASUL has demonstrated its effectiveness in a range of scenarios, providing valuable operational experience. Building on this experience and incorporating recent technological developments, HENSOLDT will now implement targeted upgrades to enhance the system’s performance as required by the Bundeswehr.
“For more than ten years now, we have been developing pioneering C-UAS solutions for various operational scenarios in the field of internal and external security as a system integrator,” said Daniela Hildenbrand, Head of Counter-UAS Solutions at HENSOLDT. She emphasised the importance of scalable multi-sensor, multi-effector solutions that provide command and control superiority through the Elysion Mission Core.
The Elysion Mission Core, integrated into ASUL, utilises AI-supported algorithms to merge data from multiple sources in near real time, providing decision support for operators. Hildenbrand noted that the system has proven its effectiveness in the field, including during the 2015 G7 summit in Elmau. She added that HENSOLDT sees itself as a pioneer in counter-UAS technology, focusing on innovative sensor integration and software improvements to ensure optimal protection against uncooperative drones.
The ASUL system, as part of a holistic and networked air defence approach, is intended to support the Bundeswehr in maintaining effective airspace security. HENSOLDT’s ongoing development aims to meet evolving operational demands while reinforcing the German Armed Forces’ drone defence capabilities.
