In the article below, D-Fend Solutions outlines the growing threat of commercially available drones to navy ships, detailing the potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and how its EnforceAir RF Cyber C-UAS system arises as a solution.
Enhancing Modern Naval Defense Against the Ever-Present Drone Threat
The proliferation of commercially available drones, or unmanned aerial systems (UAS), has significantly changed warfare. These readily available systems pose a serious and present threat to even the most advanced warships, ranging from persistent surveillance to potentially devastating attacks.
Disruptions caused by drone attacks have a significant impact on global trade routes, causing delays, inflating costs, and impacting insurance rates – ultimately affecting our way of life. This is why robust, multi-layered anti-drone defense systems are essential for modern navies.
Critical Layers of Modern Naval Defense
Modern naval defense requires a multi-layered approach that integrates several key capabilities.
C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems)
This layer specifically tackles the threat of commercial-grade and DIY drones, employing detection, tracking, and neutralization technologies to eliminate drone incursions.
Traditional Defense Systems
These include radar, gunfire, and surface-to-air missiles that remain essential for deterring and eliminating conventional aerial threats and military-grade drones.
Naval Vulnerability: Protecting Mission Essential Units, Escorts, Submarines on the Surface, and Vulnerable Platforms
The drone threat extends across the entire spectrum of naval vessels, making effective anti-drone defense vital for various scenarios.
Littoral Operations
Operating near shore exposes disadvantaged or vulnerable platforms to land-launched drones, making early detection and mitigation essential.
Chokepoint Transits
Tight waterways like the Suez Canal heighten vulnerability, demanding a comprehensive 360-degree defense umbrella.
Harbor Entry and Exit
During these critical phases, escorts and other ships are especially susceptible to drone attacks.
Naval vessels navigating in littoral zones, chokepoints, or during transit operations face an increased vulnerability to drone attacks due to being restricted in their ability to Maneuver (“RAM”).
This restriction stems from adhering to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972 (COLREGS), a critical set of rules designed to prevent accidents between vessels in busy maritime traffic areas.
RAM significantly limits a ship’s ability to take evasive actions or quickly adjust its course to engage a detected drone threat. In open waters, a ship might maneuver sharply to throw off a targeting system or position itself for a clear shot with its defensive weaponry.
However, COLREGS dictate stricter movement patterns in confined areas or during traffic congestion, hindering these traditional countermeasures. This restricted mobility creates a prime scenario for drone attacks, making effective counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) technology even more critical during these vulnerable operations.
EnforceAir: Anti-Drone Defense for Navies
EnforceAir delivers a comprehensive RF Cyber C-UAS solution that supports naval environments. Its core strengths lie in:
- Unmatched Detection & Mitigation – EnforceAir boasts a 360-degree detection and mitigation capability, delivering complete drone visibility. The system can handle multiple threats simultaneously, keeping ships safe.
- Advanced Threat Library – The extensive library stays up-to-date with the latest drone threats, including range, payload capacity, and ease of acquisition. Regular software updates keep ships prepared for the latest drone threats.
- Discreet & Powerful – EnforceAir boasts a low-footprint installation, seamlessly integrating into existing shipboard systems.
Seamless Operation & Integration
EnforceAir prioritizes user-friendliness:
- Robust API – Effortless integration with ship platform command and control systems for centralized control.
- Intuitive Interface – Operate the system through a dedicated tablet with a clear and user-friendly interface.
- Autonomous Operation – For maximum efficiency, EnforceAir offers an autonomous mode, eliminating the need for constant human intervention, and freeing up personnel.
Built for the Navy, By Design
EnforceAir adheres to stringent military standards (MIL-STD) for effective performance in harsh naval environments. Additionally, CE radio certification enables interoperability with other onboard systems, facilitating a unified defense network.
Proven Performance: Trusted by Navies Worldwide
EnforceAir is a mature solution already deployed on various naval platforms actively safeguarding multiple navies around the world. By integrating the EnforceAir RF Cyber system, alongside traditional systems, navies can establish a comprehensive, multi-layered approach against modern threats.
Request a Demo to see how EnforceAir can safeguard fleets.
