DroneShield and Epirus have successfully integrated their respective systems, DroneShield's DroneSentry and Epirus' Leonidas, creating a powerful counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) solution. This integration combines DroneSentry's multi-sensor detection and tracking capabilities with Leonidas' high-power microwave (HPM) countermeasures, providing a comprehensive defensive system for military, government, and other customers.
DroneSentry incorporates a range of detection technologies, including radio-frequency, radar, and electro-optic sensors, along with a smart jamming UAS defeat module. The system is controlled by DroneSentry-C2, an advanced command-and-control system. By integrating this with Epirus' Leonidas, a cutting-edge counter-electronics system, the C-UAS solution gains the ability to neutralize single or multiple threats with high precision and power.
Epirus' Leonidas stands out for its directed energy approach, enabling counter-electronics effects while reducing the system's size and weight. The system's gimbal mount enhances maneuverability, allowing for deployment in both fixed and mobile configurations. This flexibility ensures a wide-area rapid response capability to counter threats effectively.
Earlier this year, Epirus secured a US$66 million contract from the US Government for the stand-alone Leonidas systems. In November 2022, Epirus made a strategic investment of A$3.7 million (approximately US$2.5 million) in DroneShield, aiming to expand its international partner network and collaboration.
Oleg Vornik, CEO of DroneShield, expressed excitement about the integrated system, emphasizing the expanded options it offers to the US Department of Defense (DoD) and the global customer base. Vornik also highlighted the business development synergies that the two companies are already working on.
Ken Bedingfield, CEO of Epirus, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the shared ethos of rapid-paced, high-tech innovation to protect against the rising threat of drones and electronic attacks. Bedingfield expressed enthusiasm for deepening the engagement between Epirus and DroneShield over time.
DroneShield has seen significant success in recent months, securing multiple project wins, including two A$11 million orders from government agencies of different countries in December 2022 and January 2023. The company also received a $2.2 million order in April and released the DroneGun Mk4 in the same month. Additionally, they secured an initial unmanned traffic management (UTM) order in March, showcasing their continued growth and market presence.
The integration of DroneSentry and Leonidas represents a significant advancement in C-UAS technology, equipping defense and government entities with an advanced system to combat the increasing drone threat. With their combined expertise, DroneShield and Epirus are poised to deliver innovative solutions that address evolving security challenges.
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