The live webinar audience brought up some excellent questions. We made a list and shared the answers below.
1. How does the friend or foe solution work? Does it operate on AIS frequencies or GSM? What is the coverage area like?
When employed in airport security, the Friend or Foe (IFF) solution usually uses a separate frequency band or technology from popular consumer communication systems like GSM or AIS. Depending on the needs of the airport and the architecture of the system, different frequency bands and coverage areas may be used. Generally speaking, these systems operate under the following parameters:
Dedicated Frequencies: IFF systems utilize specific radio frequencies, which are unique in different parts of the world and are typically different from AIS or GSM bands.
Coverage Areas: The coverage area of an IFF system depends on factors like the transmitter power, antenna design, and system architecture. Typically, IFF systems are designed to cover the entire airport area, including runways, taxiways, and airside facilities. The range can vary from hundreds of meters to several kilometres, depending on the specific installation.
Integration: IFF systems can be integrated with other security technologies and platforms, enabling seamless communication between different systems. This integration enhances security coverage and ensures that all authorized entities are recognized.
The coverage areas and frequencies are determined by the airport’s security needs, infrastructure, and the capabilities of the IFF system in use. Each airport may have a slightly different setup based on its size and security requirements.
2. What about internal areas detection friend and foe determination with the public?
The main purpose of friend or foe systems is to protect restricted airside regions. They are not usually employed to identify members of the general public inside the terminal.
3. Can distinct detection zones be established to aid in the management of expansive open spaces?
You can efficiently manage wide open spaces by creating customised detection zones with AdvanceGuard and Milestone. By giving users exact control over which areas are monitored for security, this feature improves the system’s accuracy and flexibility.
4. Can a radar see through a metal perimeter fence for early warning in restricted zones outside the perimeter fence?
Radar technology operates on the line-of-sight principle, which means its detection will be impaired by a fence. However, we have done several radar installations by the fence line which will enable detection beyond the perimeter.
5. How many objects can the radar simultaneously detect and track?
Our radar system can detect and track unlimited objects simultaneously, depending on the processing capabilities of the servers.
6. Are radars licence based?
Radar licensing requirements can vary depending on the region and country. In many countries, especially for radar systems used in airport security, no specific licenses may be required as they operate within frequency bands allocated for radar use. These frequency bands are managed by national regulatory authorities to prevent interference with other communication systems and ensure the safety and security of airport operations.
However, it’s crucial to note that the specific licensing requirements may differ from one region to another, and some regions may have additional regulations or licensing processes in place. Therefore, the need for radar licenses can depend on the location and the regulatory framework of the particular country. It’s essential for organizations or entities deploying radar systems to check with the relevant local authorities to determine if licenses or approvals are necessary for their specific area of operation.
In addition, a Milestone XProtect device licence is required per radar added to the XProtect system.
7. How would radar help detect non-cooperative drones? Would drones made of plastic – some fixed-wing drones or DIY drones – bypass the radar surveillance?
Radar technology, including AdvanceGuard, is effective in detecting drones, even those made with materials such as plastic. Radar can detect non-cooperative drones in the airspace. While some DIY drones may attempt to evade radar surveillance, our systems are designed to detect a variety of objects, providing an additional layer of security against unauthorised drone incursions.
8. Is it possible to combine data from radar and TV to warn of bird strike hazard probability?
Yes, the combination of radar data and TV (thermal vision) can be used to enhance bird strike hazard probability warnings. The radar detects the presence of birds, and thermal imaging can provide additional information about their behaviour and location.
9. Can AdvanceGuard act as a SMR? Is SMR integrated with AdvanceGuard?
Our radar sensors can be used as a Surface Movement Radar (SMR) in combination with ERA (era.aero – a member of OMNIPOL group) software solution. While we provide the radar hardware, the full SMR solution is integrated with ERA’s software.
10. How many of these installations have been deployed to other airports aside Shannon Airport?
Our integrated security solution has been successfully deployed in over 50 international airports and airbases worldwide.
If you have any further questions, please let us know by simply emailing us at hello@navtechradar.com.
