Citadel Deploys New AI Software for Counter-drone Platform

Counter-drone provider Citadel Defense has launched a new AI/machine-learning software for its Titan array as an addition to it’s counter-drone technology.

The company says the new development outpaces other anti-drone sensors that use radar or cyber takeover tactics, which may be limited by ground clutter or responsiveness to new threats.

“Unmanned systems have changed the landscape of military, intelligence, and security operations. We must think beyond aerial threats when protecting personnel and sensitive critical infrastructure. If our military is using RC-controlled platforms across each domain, we must expect that our adversaries will too,” Citadel Defense CEO Christopher Williams said.

“As small unmanned systems become a more popular weapon of choice, Citadel has remained agile with their AI and machine learning algorithms to address surface-based threats and robotic platforms. These threats are creating challenges for military and security teams that legacy electronic warfare and most C-UAS systems fail to address.”

The new software will be rolled out to more than 100 Titan systems in the field. The platform’s open architecture ensures that the breadth of capability and protection offered by the Titan can be integrated into any layered system purchased by U.S. military, government, or commercial customers.

“We used cognitive technologies including robotic process automation, AI, and deep learning from the very beginning of our development two years ago,” Williams said. “End user and environmental feedback refined our models allowing us to deliver a nimble system with immediate software patches to stay ahead of our adversaries. Having this capability effective across fixed, mobile, and dismounted operations is a disruptive technology that meets the doctrinal needs of our military.”

In December, the California-based company completed a six-month deployment of its anti-drone solutions for three undisclosed federal agencies.

In September, Citadel partnered with the U.S. Air Force to protect military assets from drone assaults on the heels of an attack on Saudi oil assets – partially by drone.

Earlier this year, the company signed an agreement with the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency. The initiative deploys counter-drone measures in support of Special Operations Command requirements.

“[Titan’s] ease of use coupled with the fact that it can operate in environments where communications are critical, like major cities, airports or aboard large ships, provide users with a flexible solution for many missions,” Williams said of the agreement.

“Citadel’s escalating countermeasure approach is a unique advantage for customers because it can effectively detect, identify, and defeat drones with limited collateral affects to other important signals like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communications.”