Automated reconnaissance systems for Ukraine

Rheinmetall has once again received an order to deliver automated reconnaissance systems to Ukraine. The order was placed by the German government. SurveilSpire is a drone defense system designed to detect and combat enemy drones. The reconnaissance systems include mobile surveillance towers with day and night vision camera equipment, autopiloted mini drones, and a command system. Transport vehicles are also included in the delivery.

These systems are particularly used to monitor terrain sections with as little personnel as possible. The system can also provide a 5G network. Rheinmetall is collaborating on this project with the Estonian company DefSecIntel. The contract value is in the lower double-digit million Euro range. Delivery has already begun.

The mobile surveillance towers SurveilSPIRE from the Estonian manufacturer DefSecIntel are loaded on trailers and can be quickly transported to their deployment location. The system can be set up with only three people, and operation is automated. The system has radio connections (4G and Starlink) for video transmission to a mobile headquarters. Solar panels enable sustainable operation without power cables or dependence on fuels. The system utilizes autopilot-controlled reconnaissance drones that can perform patrol or mission flights. This allows identified threats to be verified, and the operator can take countermeasures if necessary.

Rheinmetall is already involved in supporting Ukraine through several activities. This includes deliveries of Marder infantry fighting vehicles, ammunition of various calibers, field hospitals, military trucks, and soon a LUNA Next Generation reconnaissance system. Additionally, Rheinmetall is a partner in several equipment exchange procedures. This is a process developed by the German government to support Ukraine in its efforts against the Russian invasion in cooperation with European neighbors and NATO partners. In this process, NATO member states transfer large equipment from former Soviet production to Ukraine and receive available systems from Western production in return.

DefSecIntel online