ERA Deliver Advanced Passive Surveillance System (DPET) to Czech Armed Forces
The Czech Armed Forces are set to usher in a new era of surveillance with the introduction of the Deployable Passive ESM Tracker (DPET). This state-of-the-art system, developed to meet the specific requirements of the Czech military, represents a significant advancement over its predecessor, the VERA S/M, which has served since 1996.
Built upon decades of research and development, the DPET is the deployable version of the latest generation VERA-NG system. It will be operated by the soldiers of the 532nd Electronic Warfare Battalion, a part of the 53rd Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare Regiment.
Passive surveillance systems have long been integral to the Czech Army's operations, with a lineage dating back to the 1960s and renowned predecessors such as Ramona and Tamara. The DPET, also known as Deployable Passive Electronic Support Measures Tracker in NATO terminology, builds upon this legacy with cutting-edge technology.
At its core, the VERA-NG system is renowned for its versatility, capable of addressing various operational needs simultaneously. It excels in Air Surveillance, Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD), and Electronic Warfare domains. Utilizing the multilateration Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) principle, the system can detect, localize, track, and identify air, ground, and naval targets, as well as analyze pulse and continuous wave signals—all without emitting any electromagnetic energy, rendering it undetectable to adversaries.
The battle-proven use cases of VERA-NG encompass Air Surveillance, where it complements traditional active radar networks, GBAD, where it enhances real-time detection and identification of airborne threats, and Electronic Warfare, where its precision surpasses traditional ground-based ELINT/ESM systems.
The DPET system comprises a central receiving and processing station, three side receiving stations, and an operator's workplace. Antennas are mounted on collapsible masts within ISO-1C containers, ensuring mobility and ease of deployment. Transported on customized trucks, the system forms an integral part of the military's delivery infrastructure.
The introduction of DPET represents a significant enhancement in the Czech Armed Forces' surveillance capabilities. Its ability to provide early warning and detailed target identification can prove decisive in military operations, facilitating faster decision-making and ultimately contributing to mission success.
In conclusion, the deployment of DPET underscores the Czech Armed Forces' commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to maintain a strategic advantage on the battlefield. With its advanced capabilities and proven track record, DPET stands poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding national security and ensuring operational effectiveness in diverse operational environments.
✍️ This article is written by the team of The Defense News.