Total Drone Defence: EOS' Holistic Counter-Drone Arsenal

Published 16 October 2024 | Global Defence Technology

At Land Forces 2024, Electro Optic Systems (EOS) made a powerful statement, showcasing its cutting-edge Australian-made defence technologies. The spotlight was on the Slinger system, alongside the R400 Marine and R800 remote weapon systems, which boast precise firepower and counter-drone laser integration. Attendees were also immersed in an Augmented Reality battlefield, giving them a firsthand look at EOS’ innovations in Space Domain Awareness and SATCOM-on-the-move. Hanwha featured an R400 prominently atop their Redback IFV, as did Bale Defence on their new RTV6 vehicle.

As drone technology rapidly evolves, so do the threats they pose on the battlefield. From low-cost commercial drones used in large numbers to more sophisticated weaponised systems, the need for versatile and cost-effective defence solutions has never been more pressing. EOS, under the leadership of CEO Dr. Andreas Schwer, is focused on delivering counter-drone technologies that are not only efficient but also accessible to a wide range of defence forces worldwide.

According to Schwer, the landscape of modern warfare has shifted dramatically, with the primary threats moving away from complex and highly sophisticated systems such as class four or five drones, fighter jets, and helicopters, which typically targeted high-value assets. In today’s conflicts, especially in Ukraine, inexpensive, semi-commercialised drones are being deployed in large numbers. Schwer explains,  “These drones, often produced for less than $1,000, have fundamentally altered the dynamics of the battlefield."

This shift in drone usage has brought about a change in priorities for defence forces. Instead of focusing on high-value point targets, there is now an urgent need to protect lower-value and medium-value assets. Schwer adds, “In the past, assets such as military or logistics trucks were not typically targeted, as it was not cost-effective to deploy a $500,000 missile against a $100,000 vehicle. This dynamic has now shifted, and lower- and medium-value targets require protection as they have become more vulnerable."

Traditional missile-based systems are no longer practical for defending a wide range of targets. Missile or rocket-based effectors, which were once effective, have become less viable for safeguarding diverse assets. Instead, cost-effective defence solutions, like those developed by EOS, are essential to protect hundreds of assets spread across vast territories.

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