Lockheed develops SPAN for UAV’s enhanced threat protection

Lockheed Martin has unveiled a wireless ground sensor system, known as self-powered ad-hoc network (SPAN), designed to connect with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for enhanced threat protection.

Capable of being fully integrated with unmanned aerial vehicles, the wireless ground sensor network will assist personnel by providing ubiquitous coverage and persistent surveillance of border areas.

Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Global Solutions vice president Macy Summers said the SPAN comprises a network of unobtrusive sensor nodes and is small enough to fit into the palm of a hand.

"Linking SPAN sensors with UAVs provides a cost-effective solution that can support many types of missions including force protection, border surveillance and regulatory and treaty compliance," Summers added.

Featuring small devices comprising energy-harvesting technology, the SPAN multi-purpose wireless sensor platform uses available energy sources in its surrounding environment to recharge itself and its nodes do not transmit unless there is a sensor reading of concern.

During mission, the UAV’s high precision sensors will be prompted automatically through ground network to further characterize the alert without the need for a remote analyst.

The integration of SPAN with UAVs will reduce the total cost of monitoring a specific area and will enable UAV operators to focus on identified threats rather than flying pre-set mission profiles to detect potential threats.