The Royal Air Force (RAF) is advancing its capabilities by incorporating the Leonardo Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) equipment into its comprehensive research program for the ORCUS C-UAS system. This progressive initiative will also provide a national standby capability to assist emergency services throughout the UK during crisis situations.
–As rogue drones pose a significant threat to national security in the UK, this program is deemed crucial. Leonardo is committed to delivering essential equipment and support, even amidst the challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic.
–Renowned for its expertise in C-UAS technology, Leonardo is under contract with both UK and Italian Armed Forces. Their modular and scalable systems are designed for worldwide export.
Leonardo has successfully provided the RAF with the first of four complete baseline counter-drone systems, aimed at enhancing the RAF’s Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) research and development efforts. The ORCUS system is integral to a comprehensive testing and evaluation campaign that seeks to deepen the Air Force’s understanding of addressing the threats presented by hostile drones.
The RAF is set to maintain the ORCUS system as an enhanced national standby capability, ready for rapid deployment across the country to support emergency services in the event of a drone-related crisis.
Recognizing the critical threat from rogue drones, the Ministry of Defence is prioritizing the C-UAS study program, overseen by Defence Equipment & Support Future Capability Group, as vital to national security. Leonardo remains dedicated to ensuring the continuity of this program in light of the global coronavirus pandemic.
The modular systems supplied by Leonardo will enable the RAF to assess a variety of capabilities, including advanced radar, electro-optic systems, radio frequency sensors, and electronic attack countermeasures. Future integration of additional systems for testing and evaluation is anticipated. Throughout this process, RAF Force Protection operators will explore effective methods for detecting, tracking, identifying, and neutralizing rogue drones. Ultimately, this research and development program will shape the requirements for a core RAF counter-drone capability to safeguard air bases throughout the UK.
Previously, elements of Leonardo’s C-UAS equipment were successfully utilized by the RAF Force Protection Force in 2018 and 2019, following drone incidents at Gatwick and Heathrow airports, facilitating the resumption of normal airport operations.
Leonardo is dedicated to offering its scalable and modular C-UAS systems to military and civilian customers across the globe. The company has secured contracts for C-UAS equipment with the Italian Army and Air Force and is actively engaging with potential customers worldwide.
