L3Harris tested the passive capabilities by using WESCAM MXTM-Series electro-optical/infrared sensors integrated with Shield AI’s Tracker counter-UAS software. This allowed the system to detect multiple classes of unmanned aerial systems under varied conditions.
“Our warfighters and allies are facing a new breed of unmanned threats that require faster responses at greater ranges without being detected themselves,” said Tom Kirkland, Vice President and General Manager, Targeting and Sensor Systems, L3Harris. “Partnering with Shield AI enables combat-proven targeting systems like the WESCAM MX-Series to be more effective and provide added protection to operators.”
“Adversaries are fielding more drones, cheaper and in more complex environments than ever before,” said Christian Gutierrez, Vice President, Hivemind Solutions, Shield AI. “Defeating that threat requires technology that is intelligent, adaptable and passive, and this collaboration with L3Harris brings together the strengths of autonomy and sensing to meet that urgent operational need.”
The next phase of the collaboration will focus on fine-tuning different airborne object behaviour models to improve performance tracking across air, land and maritime domains during both daytime and nighttime operations. The AI-powered capability will also be integrated with the L3Harris VAMPIRE Counter-Unmanned System, designed to defend against small drones.
