New advanced U.S. drone systems recently tested on the front lines in Ukraine are being hailed as revolutionary for modern warfare. Developed by two leading U.S. technology companies, the systems combine advanced anti-drone and cybersecurity technologies to demonstrate high performance in neutralizing aerial threats and enhancing battlefield intelligence – Newsweek
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, both Russian and Ukrainian forces have made extensive use of drones for reconnaissance, weapon guidance, and strikes. The new systems aim to overcome this dependence by combining physical and digital defense capabilities into a single, powerful solution.
A key element of these technologies is the Hitchhiker, a high-speed electric interceptor drone designed to destroy enemy UAVs, such as Iran’s Shahed, at a much lower cost than traditional systems such as the Patriot missile system. This approach ensures cost-effectiveness and scalability in a highly congested combat environment.
Another important component is the partnership between IronNet and Asterion, which combines advanced cybersecurity solutions with anti-drone technology. Even before the drones are launched, IronNet systems protect defense infrastructure from possible cyberattacks, while Asterion technologies allow detecting, tracking and destroying enemy UAVs. This multi-level approach provides full protection against cyber threats and air attacks.
These innovations are a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of modern warfare, especially in countering sophisticated drone and cyber threats.
Admiral Mike Hewitt, a cybersecurity investor and director of the US-based IronNet, called the IronNet and Asterion collaboration a “game changer,” emphasizing their potential to counter combined cyber and drone threats. In a commentary to National Security News, Hewitt noted that the Asterion system is capable of detecting, classifying, tracking and destroying drones using interceptors launched from multiple locations.
“This collaboration has two key aspects,” Hewitt explained.“IronNet is providing a robust collective cyber defense system for the Asterion network, which is critical to preventing cyber attacks. In addition, IronNet is working to develop the capability to deliver cyber attacks against enemy drones through this network.”
Hewitt emphasized the integration of IronNet ‘s Iron Dome cybersecurity system into the Asterion ecosystem, which provides reliable protection even in difficult conditions. “One of the main threats to drone countermeasures is a cyberattack that may precede the launch of drones. IronNet guarantees the network’s resilience to such attacks.”
According to Hewitt, the frontline in Ukraine expressed an urgent need for this equipment. “The response was unequivocal: how quickly can we deliver this technology? This confirmed its potential as a game-changer. Our goal is to implement this solution in Ukraine as soon as possible.”
This advanced military technology has the potential to redefine the dynamics of modern armed conflicts. Meanwhile, Ukraine is actively using drones of its own production equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), Reuters reports.
Tyler Saltsman, CEO of EdgeRunner AI, spoke to Newsweek about the benefits of AI in military operations:
“AI acts as an expert assistant that analyzes large amounts of data and suggests the best strategies. For soldiers in critical situations, this means being able to combine real-time with AI recommendations for quick decision-making. AI also minimizes mistakes by offering adaptive solutions, which provides flexibility.”
The combination of modern drone countermeasures and AI-enabled tools is a game-changer in defense, providing a significant advantage in modern conflicts.
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