Reconnaissance technologies: armasuisse tests performance limits of drone-based radar systems with NATO-PfP research partners

Bern, 23.08.2024 - From 19 to 23 August 2024 the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse carried out drone reconnaissance technology tests as part of a NATO/PfP research campaign. The aim was to test the performance limits of drone-based radar systems at different frequencies and on different drones, and measure their effectiveness.

Together with researchers from the NATO countries Germany, France and Italy, the competence sector Science and Technology (S+T) of armasuisse carried out a research campaign in Walenstadt (St. Gallen) in mid-August.

Radar technology for better reconnaissance

To do this the researchers analysed SAR imaging devices on various different drones. SAR stands for synthetic aperture radar and uses radar waves to produce high-resolution digital surface models. Unlike visual or infra-red cameras, SAR devices can take pictures even in smoke, mist, fog and darkness, making them particularly interesting for reconnaissance purposes. The researchers investigated the performance limits of these promising but complex technologies under different scenarios at the Swiss Armed Forces military training ground in Walenstadt.

The tests involved identifying static and moving vehicles and objects in rural and urban surroundings. Amongst other things they looked at whether it is possible to spot vehicles camouflaged in vegetation or mines on and under the ground. They were also interested in taking pictures through smoke and whether it is possible to distinguish real objects from dummies. In addition the researchers examined the damage assessment of destroyed buildings and trenches.

The measured data will be evaluated over the coming weeks and the new methods and technologies assessed. The aim is to be able to use appropriate reconnaissance systems in difficult operational conditions in future and boost their ability to identify targets considerably.

International cooperation for more security

Switzerland, represented by armasuisse Science and Technology (S+T), is taking part in selected NATO research activities as part of the Partnership for Peace programme (PfP). This cooperation enables the Swiss participants to better assess the technological developments for the Swiss Armed Forces and thus contributes to the security of Switzerland. It supports the Vision 2030 of the Armed Forces to strengthen its defensive capability by ensuring armasuisse provides an expert assessment of high-grade technologies and promoting international cooperation.

The research campaign took place on the Walenstadt military training ground in St. Gallen in the combat training centre OST with the support of the Training and Education Command of the Swiss Armed Forces.

Address for enquiries

Kaj-Gunnar Sievert
Head of Communication armasuisse
+41 (0) 58 464 62 47