Advancements in C-UAS Technology: Italian Navy’s Integration of ELT Group Solutions

The ELT Group has delivered a cutting-edge naval solution to the Italian Ministry of Defense (MoD) aimed at countering unmanned aerial vehicles (C-UAS). This system has been successfully implemented aboard an Italian Navy FREMM frigate currently engaged in operational missions. This advance is part of a broader strategy to enhance ELT Group’s offerings, ensuring multi-domain capabilities while integrating features such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber resilience.

Integration of Innovative Electronic Warfare Suite

• Deployment Context: The Italian Navy’s FREMM EVO program has become a pioneer among European navies by incorporating an integrated electronic warfare suite (IEWS) that includes robust C-UAS capabilities. This integration is designed to counter a spectrum of threats, specifically targeting smaller drones, enhancing the operational efficacy of naval forces.
• Product Variability: ELT Group offers both modular, customizable C-UAS solutions and a fully integrated system as part of the FREMM EVO program. This dual offering accommodates both urgent and varied operational requirements for the Italian Navy.

System Features and Operational Capabilities

The modular C-UAS system is designed to adapt to specific mission needs, incorporating:

• Advanced Sensors: This includes high-performance electro-optics and lightweight, solid-state 3D radars equipped with phased-array technology.
• Electronic Support Measures (ESM): Systems for electronic warfare are crucial for detecting, tracking, and neutralizing drone threats, employing tactics like radio-link jamming and spoofing.

Command and Control Infrastructure

The advanced command and control (C2) system can interface with the ship’s combat management system (CMS), streamlining operational execution. The C2 system enhances threat detection and classification through the application of AI algorithms, significantly reducing response times to evolving threats.

Technological Evolution and Partnerships

ELT Group’s experience from its land-based and maritime C-UAS systems—ADRIAN and KARMA—has informed the design and functionality of the new suite. During the recent Euronaval 2024 exhibition, ELT Group collaborated with Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN), a joint venture between Fincantieri and Leonardo, finalizing a contract to integrate the advanced C-UAS suite into the redesigned Electronic Warfare Suite (EWS) for the FREMM EVO platform.

System Components

• Combat System Enhancements: The FREMM EVO configuration retains a similar hull structure to the current Bergamini-class but introduces radar-evading technologies, optimizing the existing combat system which includes the latest air and missile defense capabilities.
• Enhanced Radars and Fire Control Systems: A distributed system of integrated sensors, ranging from the Kronos Dual Band Radar to Distributed Static Sensing, forms a comprehensive radar architecture that maximizes maritime situational awareness.

Strategic Importance and Funding

The robust response to drone threats is underscored by the inclusion of innovative technologies such as Cyber RF techniques and AI-based algorithms for enhanced drone detection and neutralization. As outlined in the Multi-Year Defense Planning Document (DPP) for 2025-2027, the Italian MoD intends to allocate approximately €190 million toward advancing these maritime C-UAS capabilities. This funding is essential for developing both conventional and directed-energy systems capable of addressing the complex operational landscape posed by unmanned aerial systems.

Conclusion

The advancements made by the ELT Group and the Italian Navy signal a significant shift in maritime defense paradigms, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity and electronic warfare in modern naval engagements. The ongoing integration of AI and tailored C-UAS solutions not only fortifies the Italian Navy’s operational readiness but also positions it at the forefront of counter-drone strategies within Europe.

Visual Aids

Images accompanying this article capture the technological enhancements described and highlight the innovative configurations of antennas and sensors provided by ELT Group, further illustrating the capabilities of the new suite within the naval context.

This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the evolving landscape of naval defense technologies, particularly within the context of combating drone threats in maritime operations.