In a development that promises to transform how security forces address the rising threat of unmanned aerial systems, Canada’s AirMatrix and the Netherlands’ Robin Radar Systems have teamed up to create an integrated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) platform.
This collaboration merges advanced radar technology with artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver a seamless, automated solution that allows troops to detect, track, and neutralise hostile drones through a single intelligent workflow. Designed for enhanced drone defence operations, the platform combines the strengths of both companies to offer a faster, more efficient response to aerial threats, a capability that could prove vital in military and security settings.
The foundation of this unified system lies in the integration of Robin Radar’s IRIS drone radar with AirMatrix’s Libra AI command layer. The IRIS radar, renowned for its long-range, 3D tracking abilities, employs micro-Doppler and deep-learning algorithms to detect drones and distinguish them from other airborne objects like birds or aircraft. This precise radar feed is then processed by Libra, which ingests additional data from a variety of sources—radio frequency (RF), visual electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR), acoustic, and remote ID sensors. By analysing this multi-sensor input, Libra classifies objects, predicts their flight paths, and triggers tailored countermeasures, all within seconds of detection.
This rapid, automated process ensures that security teams can respond to threats without delay, a critical advantage in fast-moving scenarios. What sets this platform apart is its ability to streamline the entire counter-drone operation, from initial detection to effective neutralisation. Unlike traditional systems that rely heavily on manual interpretation of sensor data—a slow and sometimes error-prone approach—this solution filters drone threats in order of importance and deploys countermeasures in real time.
As Ayaan Haider, co-founder of AirMatrix, put it, “Very few ecosystems let operators act on those detections in real time. We’re giving security teams clarity, speed, and confidence straight out of the box.” The result is a self-prioritising alert stream that cuts through false positives and reduces decision-making time, enabling a small team of just two operators to manage the airspace of a major facility without being overwhelmed by information. The platform’s design is both modular and scalable, making it adaptable to a wide range of operational needs. Its modular architecture allows it to be customised for different battlefield or security environments without requiring extensive modifications.
Furthermore, it features modular APIs that enable seamless integration with existing video management systems (VMS), physical security information management (PSIM), or defence networks. This flexibility ensures the system can be deployed in diverse settings, from military bases to critical infrastructure sites like airports or power plants. The platform is also built with future challenges in mind, capable of handling today’s nano-drones as well as the potential drone swarms that may emerge in years to come, offering a long-term solution for airspace defence. A key strength of the system is its use of sensor fusion, where data from multiple sources is combined and validated by AI to provide a clear, accurate picture of the airspace.
This process eliminates much of the noise that can clutter traditional systems, ensuring that genuine threats are prioritised. The user interface is designed for speed and simplicity, allowing operators to track drones, verify their status, and deploy countermeasures—all from a single screen. This intuitive setup reduces the workload on operators, freeing them to focus on critical decisions rather than sifting through data. As Marcel Verdonk, Chief Commercial Officer at Robin Radar Systems, explained, “IRIS already leads the market in detection accuracy for small, fast, low-RCS (Radar Cross Section) drones. Linking that precise radar feed to Libra’s common operating picture gives security teams instant, actionable awareness.”
The collaboration between AirMatrix and Robin Radar Systems is a strategic partnership that draws on the unique expertise of each company. AirMatrix, a Canadian firm, specialises in AI-driven command platforms that turn multi-sensor data into actionable intelligence, serving sectors like defence, homeland security, and critical infrastructure protection. Robin Radar Systems, based in the Netherlands, is a leader in radar technology, particularly known for its ability to detect and track small, fast-moving objects.
Together, they have crafted a platform that not only meets the demands of current drone threats but also anticipates future developments in unmanned aerial technology. This cross-border effort between Canadian and Dutch innovators demonstrates the value of international cooperation in addressing global security challenges. Beyond its technical capabilities, the platform reflects a broader mission to shift counter-UAS operations away from manual processes and towards automated efficiency.
By merging best-in-class radar detection with sovereign AI command, AirMatrix and Robin Radar are establishing a new standard for resilient, rapidly deployable airspace defence. The system’s ability to neutralise threats seconds after detection while filtering out distractions offers a level of control that was previously unattainable. This is particularly important as drone technology continues to evolve, with smaller, faster, and more sophisticated unmanned systems posing an ever-greater risk to military and civilian targets. The practical applications of this integrated C-UAS platform are wide-ranging.
It can be deployed to safeguard military installations, protect critical infrastructure, or secure large public events from unauthorised drone activity. Its compatibility with existing systems means it can be incorporated into broader security frameworks without the need for significant restructuring. Moreover, its future-proof design ensures it remains relevant as drone threats grow more complex, providing a sustainable tool for security teams worldwide. In an era where rapid decision-making is essential, this platform delivers a solution that is both comprehensive and user-friendly, empowering operators to act decisively in dynamic environments.
In bringing this unified anti-drone system to life, AirMatrix and Robin Radar Systems have created a tool that could redefine how airspace security is managed. By combining advanced radar with AI-driven automation, the platform offers a robust defence against hostile drones, delivering speed, accuracy, and adaptability in equal measure. As the use of unmanned aerial systems continues to expand—both for legitimate purposes and malicious intent—innovations like this will be essential for maintaining control over the skies and protecting vital assets from emerging threats.
This collaboration not only showcases the power of technology but also the potential of partnerships to address some of the most pressing challenges in modern defence.
