Israel Shipyards launches AREONOUS to hunt FPV drones with autonomous net-launching kits

Israel Shipyards, primarily known for naval vessels, is entering the competitive drone interception market with its new subsidiary, AREONOUS. Established a year ago, the company already employs around 40 individuals and has developed a command-and-control system alongside an interceptor drone designed to counter FPV drones, which are difficult to jam electronically.

The AREONOUS system offers operational flexibility, capable of protecting airports and bases from 50 km away or providing soldier-portable defense at ranges as close as 200 meters. Demonstrations to the IDF have showcased a combination of US-made Echodyne radar and Israeli Controp cameras for rapid detection of small, maneuvering targets. The soldier-portable unit, weighing 13 kg, uses LiDAR sensors and automatically launches nets to entangle and bring down drones.

Meir Ben Shayah, CEO of AREONOUS, emphasized that no single technology is a "silver bullet" in drone interception, stressing the importance of integration. He stated the system is open to incorporating various sensors and interception solutions within two weeks, based on customer needs. The company has secured paying customers and is beginning to deploy its technology to protect Israel Shipyards' own warships. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently declared Israel's ambition to be the first country to solve the global problem of explosive drones.

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in the field of drone interception, there is no 'silver bullet.' There is no single technology that is the absolute solution, and integration is mandatory. Our system is open to integrating different sensors and effectors according to customer requirements and the threats they face. We can integrate laser and other interception solutions within just two weeks.