Excelerate Technology has secured a contract co-funded by the European Space Agency Business Applications and Space Solutions (ESA BASS) programme to engineer and demonstrate an advanced robotic response solution for perimeter security at a critical UK national infrastructure location.
This project, supported by ESA BASS and the UK Space Agency, explores how space-enabled technologies can address safety challenges by integrating satellite communications with both ground and aerial robotics to safeguard essential national infrastructure. Upon activation of perimeter alarms, the system orchestrates ground robots and drones to quickly assess potential incidents. Excelerate’s robust satellite and cellular systems ensure continuous real-time data exchange between robotic entities and security control centres, irrespective of operational challenges.
Innovative drone deployment
For the trial, Project OVERVIEW utilises the Nokia Drone Networks’ ‘drone-in-a-box’ system. Designed to operate from an automated, weather-proof docking station, this aerial drone can autonomously take off to provide surveillance beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS).
For the trial, Project OVERVIEW utilises the Nokia Drone Networks’ ‘drone-in-a-box’ system
This setup, paired with Excelerate’s hybrid communications infrastructure, guarantees uninterrupted video and data transmission back to security personnel, even if ground-based communications are disrupted. By swiftly reaching alarm sites, the autonomous setup allows teams to evaluate and understand high-risk scenarios from a secure distance before deploying human personnel.
Harnessing connectivity and robotics
“As a technology developer and systems integrator, this project brings our advanced connectivity experience together with innovative robotics to solve a real-world challenge,” stated Bethan Evans, Chief Operating Officer at Excelerate Technology. “Critical national infrastructure is a global priority for protection. Working closely with infrastructure operators puts us in the best position to build and demonstrate impactful solutions utilising the right technology for the situation.”
Maria Zaretskaya, Space Applications Officer at the European Space Agency, said, “ESA Space Solutions are pleased to support Excelerate Technology in developing innovative applications which leverage Satellite Communication to improve safety of critical infrastructure.”
Excelerate Technology Awarded a Co-funded ESA Contract to Deliver Advanced Robotic Security Solution for UK National Infrastructure
Excelerate Technology has been awarded a co-funded contract by the European Space Agency Business Applications and Space Solutions (ESA BASS) program to build and demonstrate an innovative, automated robotic response system for perimeter security at a critical UK national infrastructure site.
Critical national infrastructure
Co-funded by ESA BASS and supported by the UK Space Agency, Project OVERVIEW demonstrates how space-enabled assets can directly solve safety challenges, integrating satellite communications with ground and aerial robotics to protect critical national infrastructure.
When perimeter alarms trigger, the system coordinates ground robots and aerial drones to rapidly deploy and investigate incidents. Supported by Excelerate’s resilient satellite and cellular connectivity, the system ensures uninterrupted, real-time data transmission between robotic platforms and both on-site and remote security control centres, even in challenging operational environments.
Deploying human responders
As part of the trial, Project OVERVIEW will leverage the Nokia Drone Networks ‘drone-in-a-box’ system. Deployed in an automated, weather-resistant docking station, the aerial drone can launch autonomously to provide Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) surveillance.
By combining Nokia’s industrial drone technology with Excelerate’s hybrid satellite and cellular connectivity, the system ensures seamless video and data streaming back to security teams even if terrestrial communications are compromised. By reaching alarm locations rapidly, the autonomous system allows security teams to identify and assess high-risk situations from a safe distance before deploying human responders.
Advanced connectivity experience
“As a technology developer and systems integrator, this project brings our advanced connectivity experience together with innovative robotics to solve a real-world challenge,” said Bethan Evans, Chief Operating Officer at Excelerate Technology. “Critical national infrastructure is a global priority for protection. Working closely with infrastructure operators puts us in the best position to build and demonstrate impactful solutions utilising the right technology for the situation.”
“ESA Space Solutions are pleased to support Excelerate Technology in developing innovative applications which leverage Satellite Communication to improve safety of critical infrastructure.” – Maria Zaretskaya, Space Applications Officer at European Space Agency.
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