The Bundesheer is testing an anti-drone system

The Austrian Armed Forces have selected Rheinmetall's Anti-Small Drone System for a six-month test and evaluation phase. In May 2022, Rheinmetall Air Defence AG successfully delivered the latest version of the rapidly deployable Counter Small Unmanned Aerial System (C-sUAS) to the Austrian Armed Forces. Rheinmetall's C-sUAS system consists of two shelter units that enable quick deployment using standard trailers and trucks. The sensor unit can be automatically raised and allows for the integration of various detection technologies – such as X-band and S-band radar, passive emitter locators, ADS-B receivers, and other sensors as needed. An integrated and stabilized electro-optical 360° PTZ sensor provides state-of-the-art surveillance and tracking capabilities.

The separate C2 shelter provides a full operator station based on the combat-proven Oerlikon Skymaster Command and Control System. Skymaster offers an outstanding level of sensor data fusion and operational functionality. This includes transmission to integrated target designators and scalable effectors for various countermeasures. The system can also be integrated into higher command levels.

The Austrian Armed Forces will extensively test the Rheinmetall C-sUAS system at multiple locations in Austria, gaining valuable expertise and experience in simulating the protection of air force bases, integration into other military units, or protection of C-sUAS in urban areas – a forward-looking approach to addressing emerging aerial threats. The highlight will be the public demonstration at the AIRPOWER 2022 event – taking place at the home airfield of the Austrian Eurofighter, the Zeltweg Air Base.

Rheinmetall Air Defence will support the project over the next six months to ensure its maximum success.

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