Alternative Designation
Falcon Shield
Type
Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS)
Manufacturer
Leonardo
Crew
The system is designed for operation by a single "distracted operator"—an operator performing concurrent security monitoring tasks rather than dedicated C-UAS supervision. Automated threat detection, track formation, and priority alert mechanisms minimize continuous operator engagement while maintaining decision-based control points for threat evaluation and response authorization.
Radar Detection (500m–5km+)
The system integrates compatible radar platforms, with preferred options including the Aveillant Gamekeeper 16U, SRC LSTAR v4, or SRC R1410 Gryphon. These 2D/3D FMCW radars provide continuous 360° coverage with 15-meter range accuracy and 0.7° azimuth accuracy, establishing the outer detection envelope.
Electronic Surveillance Measures (30 MHz–8 GHz)
The Metis Skyperion ESM system provides passive RF detection and geolocation capability, enabling simultaneous tracking of both the drone platform and the ground control station (GCS). The system achieves threat detection at 2.5 kilometers with identification capability extending to 10 kilometers under optimal conditions, utilizing AI-enhanced waveform analysis combined with traditional library-based threat classification.
Electro-Optical Tracking (Long-Range)
The NERIO-ULR gyro-stabilized payload provides positive threat identification with thermal and visible-band imaging. The system offers continuous 360° × ±50° coverage with modular zoom optics ranging from 11° to 0.9° field of view, enabling target identification at ranges exceeding the effective threat engagement distance. The integrated eyesafe laser rangefinder (ER Glass, 1540nm wavelength) provides precision geolocation with ±5-meter accuracy out to 20 kilometers.
Integration
The integration of these three parallel detection channels creates a multi-layer redundancy pattern where each sensor type compensates for environmental limitations of the others. Radar penetrates weather and masking; ESM provides RF signature geolocation regardless of line-of-sight; EO delivers visual confirmation and controller geolocation. This architecture minimizes false alarm rates through automated sensor data association and machine learning–driven threat prioritization.
Integration Standards
The system employs open-standards architectures including IP-based control interfaces and ASTERIX radar data format compatibility, enabling integration with existing air defense infrastructure or standalone deployment. Geospatial information system (GIS) integration allows real-time threat geolocation and handoff to external effectors or response agencies.
Real-Time Data Association
Machine learning and rule-based algorithms fuse multi-sensor tracks, providing automated acquisition and tracking of detected threats through sensor handoff protocols. The system maintains event logs and evidential data recording for post-incident analysis.
