Counter-UAS in Denmark: DALO orders AI-ready C2 system from Systematic

For counter-UAS, the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) has ordered an AI-ready command and control (C2) capability from Systematic . As far as is known, it is the first contract concluded by a NATO member for a C2 system that is prepared for the integration of AI-supported analysis.

The capability will be used throughout the country. Potential drone threats are to be detected, assessed and countered by linking Systematic's SitaWare suite with sensor data, operational data and personnel.

One operational picture for all sites

Within the suite, SitaWare Headquarters provides an overview of counter-drone activities at different sites and across military domains. SitaWare Insight uses AI to analyse historical and near-real-time data in order to detect anomalies, patterns and potential threats.

The SitaWare software will also be integrated into Terma's previously ordered OSL counter-drone system. In this way, sensor data is to feed into a common operational picture in near real time.

Background: hybrid threat situation

In an assessment in September, the Danish Defence Intelligence Service (DDIS) had warned of an increased risk of Russian hybrid warfare against Western states – including the use of drones.

This had been preceded by a series of incidents in Europe, such as reports of drones near Leipzig/Halle airport in August. In addition, there were Russian violations of the airspace of NATO members such as Estonia, Latvia, Poland and Norway.

AI-enabled counter-drone defence as an operational capability

According to Nikolaj Bramsen, CEO of Systematic, the nature of warfare is changing; drones are now part of the everyday threat environment. Bramsen stated:

“The answer is not simply to deploy more sensors or more individual systems. It is about the ability to connect information, understand what it means and respond quickly”— Nikolaj Bramsen, CEO of Systematic

“This programme shows what happens when trusted operational data, command and control functions and AI are brought together in one environment. It is an important step for Denmark and important proof of how European defence can turn AI into an operational capability.”— Nikolaj Bramsen, CEO of Systematic

The common picture is what matters

Lieutenant General Per Pugholm Olsen, head of DALO, sees the contract with Systematic as a further step towards a strong and coherent capability to deal with drone threats. Olsen said:

“It is crucial that the armed forces can work on the basis of a common operational picture, so that they have the best possible conditions to detect and respond to potential threats”— Lieutenant General Per Pugholm Olsen, DALO

The contract comes at a time when NATO is accelerating its efforts to strengthen drone defence and introduce AI in defence. The system also supports multinational formations such as the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF). This is intended to enable forces from several nations to operate together and share information seamlessly across domain boundaries.