US-based IronNet and Asterion Systems have joined forces to test a unique Hitchhiker interceptor drone on the Ukrainian frontline.
The two firms have come together to test the effectiveness of the counter drone technology in real combat situations, and Ukrainian frontlines offered the perfect backdrop.
IronNet is an artificial intelligence (AI) based cybersecurity company, while Asterion Systems makes counter-drone technologies.
As per the two American firms, the Hitchhiker interceptor can prove effective in countering suicide drones – like the Iranian Shahed – at a lower operation cost compared to the air defense systems like the Patriot.
The USP of the Hitchhiker Interceptor Drone
The Hitchhiker interceptor drone works with the help of IronNet’s real-time cyber threat detection tool – named Iron Dome.
The Hitchhiker is a electric multi-role border interceptor with a range of 124 miles (200 kilometers), and it can achieve top speed of 279 miles per hour (450 km/h).
It is launched by the Asterion Perimaster C4 system. Perimaster blends long range sensor data to position HitchHiker directly behind incoming suspect targets, for live visual inspection and mitigation or return to base.
The data is aggregated from multiple sensors to provide situational awareness, monitoring facilities of entire borders through a secure networked environment, detecting suspect UAV well before they reach the border.They can be automatically launched from fixed or mobile platforms, adding a touch of flexibility to operations.
Moreover, the company is also aiming to make a jet version of the drone – with the aim of it being able to overtake and shoot down jet-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The integration of cyber security to the drone defense system adds an edge to its capabilities. The partnership with Asterion enables the counter drone system to work efficiently even if there is a cyber attack launched prior or during a mass attack launched by an enemy using UAVS.
The Hitchhiker drones can then go on to track, target, and destroy the enemy UAVs at will. However, even with the tests being completed there is no official verdict on whether Ukrainian forces will adopt or use the drone interceptor.
The Partnership between IronNet and Asterion
IronNet Inc. and Asterion Partner to Strengthen Cybersecurity and Counter-UAS Defense Solutions
The partnership between IronNet and Asterion was announced at the recently held Bahrain International Airshow.
The collaboration aimed to address the growing need for comprehensive and integrated defense strategies, representing a significant milestone in the evolution of air and space security. The methodology employs artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced sensor networks to analyze patterns and anomalies across a broad range of data sources.
The companies stated that the result is a more robust and proactive defense system capable of identifying and mitigating threats before they can cause significant damage.
“Our partnership with Asterion represents a paradigm shift in how we approach critical infrastructure protection,”
said Linda Zecher, CEO of IronNet.
“By embracing the convergence of cyber and aerial threat detection and defense, governments and organizations can ensure a more comprehensive and effective approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure and national interests.”
“Together we’re creating a solution that addresses the multi-dimensional threats facing our clients today, including those originating from both ground, air and space-based sources,”
said Andreas Mustert, Asterion Founder and CTO.
Source: Interesting Engineering