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European optoelectronics experts, including Poland’s Institute of Optoelectronics at the Military University of Technology, play a pivotal role in shaping criteria for selecting anti-drone technologies to safeguard critical infrastructure, borders, and citizens across EU nations.
EU Policy and Project COURAGEOUS:
The European Commission has recognized Project COURAGEOUS, involving the Military University of Technology, as a cornerstone in its strategy to counter non-cooperative unmanned aerial systems. Drones, with their accessibility and potential misuse, necessitate advanced systems for detection, tracking, and prevention.
Challenges in System Selection:
EU member states face challenges in choosing from a plethora of available anti-drone solutions, often lacking standardization. To address this, the European Commission adopted a testing policy in October, based on the outcomes of Project COURAGEOUS, providing guidelines for informed technology selection.
Standardizing Anti-Drone Systems:
The Institute of Optoelectronics (IOE) WAT, part of the COURAGEOUS project, focuses on standardizing testing methodologies for anti-drone systems. This includes scenarios covering illegal drone use in prisons, airports, critical infrastructure, border security, drug trafficking, and human smuggling.
Global Impact and Interpol Collaboration:
The IOE’s analysis of global anti-drone systems contributes to international methodology. Interpol will disseminate COURAGEOUS results, enhancing global understanding of counter-drone capabilities. The project’s insights promise benefits worldwide, aiding law enforcement and public institutions.
Poland’s Contribution:
Polish researchers at IOE assess global anti-drone systems, establish functional and performance requirements, and create metrics for detection, tracking, and identification scenarios. The project, set to conclude in 2024, ensures continuous sharing of results with EU member states, partner countries, and international organizations, including Interpol.