Update: Netherlands acquires C-UASs from Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems ReDrone C-UAS solution has been acquired by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence. (Elbit Systems)

The Netherlands has acquired new counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UASs) from Elbit Systems for GBP43 million (USD55 million), the company announced on 21 August.

As part of the contract, the company will supply several mobile, stationary, and deployed configurations of its ‘ReDrone' integrated C-UAS solution. Logistics and training will also be provided.

A Netherlands Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson told Janes that deliveries would occur within the next three years and that there was an option to procure extra systems if needed. They were unable to detail the number of units ordered.

ReDrone passively detects and neutralises UASs in all relevant commercial frequency bands. The integrated solution encompasses electronic attack (EA) capabilities as well as the company's DAiR radar, COAPS-L (Commander Open Architecture Panoramic Sight-Light) electro-optical (EO) payload, and signals intelligence (SIGINT) sensors that are collectively controlled by a command-and-control system.

The ReDrone radar has a 3–4 km detection range, while the EO/infrared payload is capable of classifying UASs up to 1 km away. Supporting this is the SIGINT sensor, which utilises wideband receivers to scan, identify, and classify UASs. A direction-finding system then points to the UAS before the EA capability disrupts the target's communications link and Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver.

According to the Netherlands MoD, the C-UAS capability will protect forces against small UASs weighing up to 20 kg. The systems will be deployed across all of the country's airbases and the Den Helder naval port. The army's C-UAS platoon will also be equipped with the solution.

This article, originally published on 22 August 2023, has been updated with new information.