A compact and interference-resistant radar system for uncontrolled airspace has been created by HENSOLDT, a producer of sensor solutions, in collaboration with many partners. The radar system has been put through flight tests by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) using a research helicopter and many drones. The system’s ability to monitor uncontrolled airspace above urban areas has been demonstrated by the testing. In order to evaluate the trustworthy and secure detection of airplanes, more analyses are presently being conducted.
The “MIMO Air” project came to an end with the flight tests conducted at the DLR’s National Experimental Test Centre for Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Cochstedt. A number of project participants, led by HENSOLDT, created and approved the research prototype for a “Air Traffic Monitoring and Management System” (ATMMS). New developments were made in a few key areas.
HENSOLDT’s MIMO radar system, combining a radar sensor and post-processor, provides obstacle detection, navigation, and landing aid for flying platforms. Using AI, the cognitive system adapts to changing environments and optimizes limited resources. MIMO, or “multiple-input, multiple-output,” expands signal reception without increasing the radar’s physical size, ensuring a compact design. Maurice Tennigkeit, Project Manager, highlighted the successful flight test, marking a key step toward integrating air taxis into German airspace.
HENSOLDT led the ‘MIMO Air’ project, with contributions from DLR, Fraunhofer Institute FHR, Humatects GmbH, and DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH. Funded by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection (BMWK), the project focuses on advancing radar technology for future aviation.
