SeaGuardian drones have been extensively tested by JMSDF to evaluate their ability to replace certain missions traditionally performed by manned aircraft. The system, classified as a MALE RPA, is capable of continuous flight for over 24 hours depending on its configuration, offering significant endurance for maritime surveillance operations.
To enhance Japan’s maritime surveillance capabilities, GA-ASI has integrated its Optix+ software into the SeaGuardian system. Optix+ collects and processes data from SeaGuardian sensors and other sources, providing operators with a comprehensive and real-time operational picture. This feature enables swift and accurate Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) tasking, facilitating the automatic detection of irregular activities across wide maritime areas.
The SeaGuardian platform is equipped with an advanced suite of sensors, including multi-mode maritime surface-search radars with Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR) imaging capabilities, an Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver, and a high-definition, full-motion video system. The video system features optical and infrared cameras as well as electronic intelligence receivers, allowing the drones to detect and identify vessels over extensive areas of ocean, automatically track maritime targets, and correlate AIS data with radar and electronic intelligence findings.
“The inclusion of these advanced features makes SeaGuardian a vital asset for enhancing maritime situational awareness,” a GA-ASI representative stated. The system’s ability to autonomously integrate multi-source data offers JMSDF a significant technological advantage in maintaining security across its maritime boundaries.
