HENSOLDT commissioned to upgrade ASUL drone defence system for German Armed Forces

HENSOLDT, a prominent German defense technology company, has been commissioned by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to upgrade the ASUL drone defense system. This initiative aims to bolster the German Armed Forces' capabilities in detecting, classifying, and neutralizing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in real-time.

Understanding the ASUL System

ASUL, an acronym for "Abwehrsystem gegen unbemannte Luftfahrzeuge," is a modular counter-UAS (C-UAS) platform developed by ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH, a subsidiary of HENSOLDT. Introduced in 2022, the system integrates various technologies to provide comprehensive protection against small drones, particularly those weighing up to 25 kilograms.

Key components of the ASUL system include:

• Spexer2000 3D Radars: These high-resolution radars offer precise detection capabilities, especially against asymmetric threats. 

• Z:NightOwl M Cameras: These cameras provide day and night vision, enhancing the system's ability to identify and track drones under various lighting conditions.

• ARDRONIS Radio Frequency Direction Finders: Developed by Rohde & Schwarz, these devices detect and locate the control signals of UAS, aiding in identifying the drone's operator. 

• Remote-Controlled Jammers: These are capable of neutralizing drones by disrupting their control signals, effectively rendering them inoperative.

The system is container-based, comprising two transportable units: a 10-foot container housing the detection equipment and a 20-foot container equipped with the jamming systems.

The Upgrade Initiative

Building upon operational experiences and technological advancements, HENSOLDT's upgrade of the ASUL system focuses on enhancing its performance to meet evolving threats. A significant aspect of this upgrade is the integration of the Elysion Mission Core, an AI-supported platform that merges data from multiple sensors in near real-time, providing operators with improved situational awareness and decision-making support.

Daniela Hildenbrand, Head of Counter-UAS Solutions at HENSOLDT, emphasized the importance of scalable multi-sensor, multi-effector solutions that offer command and control superiority through the Elysion Mission Core.

Operational Deployment and Future Outlook

The ASUL system has been effectively deployed in various scenarios, including the 2015 G7 summit in Elmau, demonstrating its capability in real-world operations. The ongoing upgrades aim to ensure that the German Armed Forces remain equipped to counter the growing threat of uncooperative drones, thereby maintaining effective airspace security.

HENSOLDT's commitment to innovation and its role as a pioneer in counter-UAS technology underscore its dedication to enhancing national defense capabilities through advanced sensor integration and software improvements.