NSPA selected Axon, BSS, DEFSECINTEL, JISR and CS Group France for the framework. Each company offers a pre-qualified solution designed around a common command-and-control architecture.
The initiative addresses the persistent threat posed by small and tactical drones to deployed forces, critical infrastructure and civilian populations. NSPA is focusing on flexible, off-the-shelf systems that can be adapted to different operational requirements.
The common command-and-control layer can integrate several types of detection technology. These include radar, direction-finding, electro-optical and infrared systems, as well as acoustic sensors.
Electronic warfare effectors can also be connected to the architecture. The framework provides an option to integrate hard-kill interceptor capabilities where required.
Bringing sensors and effectors together under a unified C2 system allows operators to detect, identify and respond to unmanned aircraft threats. The architecture can be scaled for fixed-site defence, forward operating bases and mobile operations.
The multi-supplier approach is intended to provide NATO customers with faster access to existing capabilities. NSPA said having five pre-selected contractors also creates supply redundancy and opportunities for shared through-life support.
Those benefits can be difficult to achieve through separate national procurement programmes. The framework instead provides participating countries with a common acquisition route for qualified C-UAS technologies.
NSPA plans to expand its counter-drone catalogue as threats and operational requirements evolve. The agency said the approach will keep current and proven systems accessible to NATO forces through a familiar procurement mechanism.
