US to soon detect hostile drones at longer ranges using new system

The United States is set to enhance its ability to detect hostile drones at longer ranges through a new AI-enabled detection system demonstrated by L3Harris Technologies and Shield AI. This system integrates L3Harris’ WESCAM MX-Series electro-optical/infrared sensors with Shield AI’s Tracker counter-UAS software, enabling faster and more effective identification of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), even when partially obscured by obstacles like buildings or clouds. The technology addresses the growing threat posed by increasingly numerous and complex drone adversaries, requiring quicker, covert responses to protect military operators. The next development phase involves refining airborne object behavior models to improve tracking performance across air, land, and maritime domains during both day and night operations. This AI-powered capability will be incorporated into L3Harris’ VAMPIRE Counter-Unmanned System, designed specifically to defend against small drones. The WESCAM MX-Series sensors, known for their multi-spectral, high-sensitivity EO/IR surveillance and