Innovations in Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems: Safran’s Skydex NAVWAR Solution
Introduction to Skydex NAVWAR
At the recent ADEX 2025 exhibition in Seoul, Safran Electronics and Defense introduced Skydex NAVWAR, an innovative software platform designed to empower integrators in creating national counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) solutions. This software can utilize a variety of hardware configurations tailored to specific operational needs, enhancing the flexibility and adaptability of defense strategies against increasing drone threats.
Addressing Market Demands
Recognizing that many nations prefer not to rely solely on out-of-the-box solutions from foreign entities, Safran opted to isolate the spoofing capabilities from its advanced Skyjacker system. This initiative aims to provide a modular software solution that can be integrated with diverse hardware, allowing nations to develop bespoke counter-drone strategies that align with their unique security requirements.
Key Attributes of Skydex NAVWAR:
- Flexibility: Works with different hardware configurations.
- Proven Technology: Based on Safran’s field-tested Skyjacker system.
- Customizability: Offers a software development kit for tailored plug-in solutions.
Strategic Collaboration with ETOBB
The hardware demonstration at ADEX 2025 featured components from ETOBB, Safran’s Korean partner. The integration showcased a comprehensive setup, including:
- Tripod-Mounted Antenna
- High-Power Amplifier
- Computing Unit
This configuration marks ETOBB as the first known partner to implement what they term the SPG-S GNSS Spoofer, demonstrating a commitment to advancing regional defense capabilities. The system’s architecture also incorporates Safran’s GSG-7 GNSS Simulator and SecureSync time server, ensuring comprehensive support for military operations.
Operational Capabilities and Software Functions
Skydex NAVWAR is tailored for integration within command-and-control frameworks and excels in spoofing signals from all major GNSS constellations, including:
- GPS
- Galileo
- NavIC
- BeiDou-2 and -3
- QZSS
- SBAS
Additionally, the system can manipulate low-Earth orbit positioning, navigation, and timing signals, as well as custom signals across all frequency bands.
Advanced Performance Characteristics:
- High Simulation Rate: Achieves 1,000 Hz iteration, enhancing responsiveness.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Operates on both Windows and Linux systems.
- Remote Operational Capability: Allows spoofing operations without on-site personnel.
- Enhanced Customization: SDK facilitates the creation of bespoke software tools.
Implications for Military and Law Enforcement
The increasing prevalence of drones has intensified the urgency for nations to enhance their C-UAS capabilities. Safran’s NAVWAR represents a significant step forward, offering a sophisticated solution that not only serves military applications but also extends to law enforcement and the protection of critical infrastructure.
By providing a real-time spoofing function, Skydex NAVWAR allows operators to effectively counteract UAV threats, safeguarding strategic assets from aerial surveillance and potential hostile actions. This increase in operational readiness is crucial as nations seek to bolster their defensive postures in an increasingly contested airspace.
Conclusion
The introduction of Skydex NAVWAR marks a pivotal advancement in the development of counter-drone capabilities. As nations confront the growing challenges posed by UAVs, the ability to deploy a flexible, efficient, and customizable spoofing solution is invaluable. Safran Electronics and Defense’s innovative approach not only addresses contemporary security needs but also paves the way for enhanced collaboration and technological integration within the military and defense sectors worldwide.
