Shield AI has licensed its Tracker Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) software to L3Harris, paving the way for a fully integrated detect-and-defeat capability aboard the VAMPIRE weapon system.
Tracker C-UAS combines proprietary artificial intelligence with computer vision to identify threats in electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) imagery.
Because it relies on passive sensors, that software can provide early warning without emitting radar or radio frequency signals that could reveal the operator’s position.
Its integration with VAMPIRE will pair passive detection and target tracking with a precision engagement system, allowing operators to locate and destroy hostile drones through a single platform.
The effort builds on previous work between the companies, including the integration of L3Harris’ WESCAM EO/IR sensors with Tracker C-UAS to detect multiple types of unmanned aerial systems at extended ranges.
“Aerial threats continue to evolve, driving the need for advanced, passive sensing technologies that enable operators to identify threats without exposing their position,” said Tony Calderon, Targeting & Sensor Systems and Communications & Spectrum Dominance President at L3Harris.
“The integration of Tracker C-UAS with our proven VAMPIRE platform delivers an operationally effective solution that enhances threat detection, target tracking and counter-UAS engagement while improving force survivability.”
From Detection to Kill
VAMPIRE is a self-contained precision weapon system built to destroy hostile aerial and ground targets while protecting troops and critical infrastructure.
The modular system can be installed on a range of vehicles, vessels, and other platforms, providing a rapidly deployable and lower-cost option for engaging drones and other remotely piloted aircraft.
According to L3Harris, VAMPIRE systems have collectively logged more than 350,000 operational hours and destroyed hundreds of hostile targets in Europe.
