Within the framework of the SESAR SAFIR-Ready project, partners have successfully completed a hardware-in-the-loop test campaign of a geofence-aware detect and avoid (DAA) algorithm developed by Delft University of Technology.
Conducted in January, the tests used a dual-uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) setup developed by MAVLab at Delft University of Technology and integrated operational components from industry partners. The campaign was designed to replicate realistic operational conditions for unmanned aircraft systems, including geofence interactions, traffic awareness via Remote ID, and integrated command-and-control functions.
The scenario involved two rotary-wing drones:
- UAV 1 operated through the Helicus command and control centre (C2C), enabling flight planning and real-time execution of the Detect and Avoid algorithm developed by Delft University of Technology.
- UAV 2 carried a DroneTag, with its data streamed into the C2C via a direct integration with SafeSky, supporting real-time traffic awareness and visualisation.
The test campaign enabled validation of both the detect and avoid logic and the interoperability between systems in a controlled environment closely aligned with real-world UAV operations.
This work takes place within the broader European ambition to enable the safe and secure integration of drones into all classes of airspace. Through the concept of U-space, Europe is developing a set of digital services and regulatory frameworks that allow drones to operate safely alongside manned aviation, supporting applications ranging from logistics and infrastructure inspection to emergency response. The vision set out by the SESAR Joint Undertaking is to build a scalable, automated and highly interoperable airspace ecosystem, where drones can operate routinely while maintaining the highest levels of safety, security and efficiency.
SAFIR-Ready is a project under the SESAR Joint Undertaking and is co-funded by the European Commission through Horizon Europe. The project advances an open modular architecture for drone operations, including a Drone Cargo Port, a command-and-control centre, U-space services, and scalable aerial vehicle platforms designed to operate independently or as part of an integrated value chain.
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Further results from the SAFIR-Ready demonstration activities will be shared in upcoming updates.
