Software-Only Upgrade Boosts Robin Radar’s IRIS Counter-Drone Radar Range to 12 km

Robin Radar Systems has announced a breakthrough software upgrade for its IRIS counter-UAS radar, extending its detection range from 5 km (3.1 miles) to 12 km (7.45 miles). The new Long-Range Mode (LRM) requires no hardware changes and can be rolled out to all existing units, marking a significant leap forward in counter-drone defence.

Extended Warning Against Drone Threats

The innovation was developed and battle-tested in Ukraine, where Shahed loitering munitions and other fixed-wing drones threaten energy sites and infrastructure on a near-daily basis. With drones travelling at speeds over 180 km/h (111 mph), the longer detection range provides Ukrainian defenders with critical extra seconds to prepare countermeasures.

“This upgrade isn’t just about range—it’s about time,” said Kristian Brost, General Manager of Robin Radar USA. “Every extra kilometre gives defenders more precious seconds to react, more chances to protect critical infrastructure, and ultimately, more lives saved. By delivering this leap forward entirely through software, we’re showing how the decisive edge in counter-drone defence is no longer just built—it’s coded.”

Key Features of the IRIS Long-Range Mode

• 12 km Detection Range: Extends monitoring of drones and loitering munitions far beyond the original 5 km.

• Software-Only Upgrade: No physical modifications; can be installed across the entire IRIS fleet.

• Flexible Use: Operators can switch between standard 5 km mode and the new long-range mode in minutes.

• Proven Against Shaheds: One of the first off-the-shelf radars confirmed capable of detecting and classifying Shahed drones at extended distances.

Designed for the Frontline

The update was shaped directly by feedback from Ukrainian operators, whose experience under real combat conditions accelerated development. The radar remains lightweight and is built for integration into multi-sensor counter-UAS architectures while maintaining high accuracy.

“This upgrade marks a step-change in what counter-drone radar can achieve,” said Siete Hamminga, CEO of Robin Radar Systems. “By listening to our users on the frontline, we’ve redefined the capabilities of an off-the-shelf system, delivering a battlefield-proven solution now available worldwide.”

Beyond Ukraine

Robin Radar emphasized that the battlefield-tested technology can also serve European Ministries of Defence and Interior, as well as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Science & Technology. The company stressed that in modern warfare, “every second counts”, and that its mission is to provide advanced radar as the first line of protection against drone threats.