EchoShield Radar Bolsters U.S. Air Defence
Echodyne has been selected as the radar system provider for Trust Automation’s Small-Unmanned Air Defence System (SUADS), part of a $490 million contract with the U.S. Air Force announced in August 2025. This marks a significant milestone for Echodyne as the radar platform company continues to expand its presence in the defence sector.
Integration into SUADS Platforms
EchoShield radar will be integrated into three versions of the SUADS platform: Rapidly Deployable (RD-SUADS), Fixed Site (FS-SUADS), and Expeditionary (EX-SUADS). Each version adheres to the Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) standard, making EchoShield the first fully integrated SOSA-compliant solution in the platform.
The RD-SUADS platform is designed as a self-contained, self-powered system fitted to standard pallet sizes, enabling easy transport via military aircraft. Meanwhile, FS-SUADS is developed for deployment at permanent military installations, offering comprehensive base protection and 360-degree security as either a standalone or integrated group.
EX-SUADS serves as a detection-only system, optimised for transportation alongside checked baggage. Its compact size allows it to fit within larger SUV vehicles, providing flexibility for various deployment scenarios.
EchoShield is recognised for its medium-range capability, consistently generating precise location data for all drone types and configurations. As a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) radar system, it features industry standard interfaces and rich data options that enhance optical sensor targeting and accelerate reaction times.
Advanced classification capabilities are built on recursive neural network (RvNN) machine learning models, enabling EchoShield to track movement and direct operator attention effectively. Eben Frankenberg, CEO of Echodyne, emphasised the importance of radar data accuracy, stating, “The new table stakes for every defensive system is actionable data at the range of reaction and with the precision to consistently direct kinetic effectors onto fast, nimble, UAS threats.”
Trust Automation’s CEO, Ty Safreno, expressed that the integration of Echodyne’s radar enhances detection range and accuracy, enabling operators to identify threats with greater confidence and respond swiftly to potential dangers.
Echodyne is set to showcase its technology at the Counter-UAS Technologies event in London from April 20th to 22nd, followed by an exhibition at the Modern Day Marine expo in Washington, DC from April 28th to 30th. These events provide an opportunity to present EchoShield’s capabilities and further solidify Echodyne’s reputation in the field of advanced radar solutions.
