The Defense Department is on a quest for enhanced acoustic detection technologies aimed at bolstering defenses against small unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This initiative underscores the growing recognition within the military of the threats posed by these agile, often hard-to-detect drones.
A key player in this search is the Command, Control, Computers, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Center, part of the Army Combat Capabilities Development Command. They are spearheading market research to identify available acoustic detection tools that could be integrated into the soldiers’ arsenal.
Recently, a Request for Information (RFI) was issued on January 14, signaling the Army’s proactive approach in this critical space. The RFI aims to gather insights that will shape upcoming requirements and prototyping efforts, specifically targeting solutions for Group 1 and Group 2 UAS. In this context, Group 1 drones are identified as weighing 20 pounds or less, while Group 2 drones range from 21 to 55 pounds.
This outreach is particularly timely, as the Army and the Pentagon are ramping up their development and acquisition of counter-UAS capabilities. Small drones can be elusive due to their size and low-flight altitudes, making conventional detection methods less effective. An advanced acoustic detection system could provide troops with an additional layer of situational awareness, allowing them to sense overhead threats, including coordinated drone swarms, well before they can become a real danger.
U.S. defense officials are keenly observing lessons learned from ongoing conflicts, most notably the recent Ukraine-Russia war, where drone operations have played critical roles on both sides. This analysis is driving the military to develop more sophisticated countermeasures against these rapidly evolving aerial threats.
In August 2022, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth initiated the formation of a task force named Joint Interagency Task Force-401. This organization is tasked with leading the Pentagon’s efforts in developing and deploying capabilities designed specifically to tackle small drones. Adaptation and readiness are emphasized, reflecting a recognition that every unit in the military must be equipped to defend against UAS incursions.
“Every formation will need to be able to defend themselves against small drones,” noted Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George during a recent town hall meeting at Fort Drum, New York. He affirmed that the military is actively seeking tools that can be easily operated by personnel across various formations.
The RFI outlines specific capabilities desired in the acoustic detection solution. The Army seeks a system that can operate effectively on the move, adapting to diverse environmental and weather conditions. Furthermore, it’s essential for the system to integrate seamlessly with existing soldier gear, like the Tactical Assault Kit and Nett Warrior systems.
The proposal emphasizes the necessity for the detection system to passively identify UAS signatures using acoustic methods. This approach would enable soldiers to determine the location and classification of detected drones, delivering this information directly to their smart devices and displaying it on the Tactical Assault Kit (TAK).
While prioritizing functionality, the Army has also set preferences for the system’s specifications, including a small size, lightweight design, low power consumption, and the incorporation of embedded detection algorithms. These features are aimed at ensuring that soldiers can effectively utilize the technology without compromising their mobility or operational efficiency.
The deadline for industry responses to this RFI is February 17, marking an important timeline for those in the defense sector who are eager to contribute to this critical advancement in military technology.