Ground drone instead of patrols: Natrix develops surveillance system for critical infrastructure

Natrix, a Latvian manufacturer of unmanned ground systems, has developed a new ground drone for area surveillance. It is used to monitor the security of large critical infrastructure facilities and can replace human patrols.

According to the defence company's co-founder, the idea for such a system has become more important in recent years. The background is escalating challenges that Russia, for example, has staged against various critical infrastructure targets in Western countries, including the Baltic states. In addition, there is growing interest from facility operators: the solution makes it possible to cut significantly the security costs currently incurred by physical security patrols, and it puts no lives at risk.

We presented our new system at this year's 'Drone Summit' technology exhibition and attracted both recognition and interest— Gatis Vectirāns, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Natrix, speaking to a Latvian military publication

Our aim is to provide a drone that is operational around the clock and can recharge itself while driving across various sites – such as energy infrastructure, ports or airports – in order to ensure additional surveillance and control.— Gatis Vectirāns

Ground drone sensors detect intruders and explosives

Externally, the company's drone resembles the “Natrix” platform already used in Ukraine for various missions at the front. However, it is equipped with numerous sensors and video cameras. These allow unauthorised persons entering a site to be detected with high precision; information can also be gathered on dangerous objects such as explosives that may have been placed there.

Video surveillance cameras do not always capture everything, so the use of such drones provides an additional layer of early warning and detection, thus ensuring a higher level of security. It is worth mentioning that the drones would not simply follow a pre-programmed route. If necessary, an operator can immediately take control, approach a suspicious object and examine it without endangering lives— Gatis Vectirāns