SensorSky was presented for the EDA EURIdea consisting on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for sensing and observation in a military context. Presentation by Marco Manso - RINICOM at the 6th December 2013 in Athens, Greece.

1. SensorSky – Sensors in the Sky
There is an increasing interest in the use of UAS supporting
Defence and Warfare operations
UAS can carry advanced sensing capabilities and weaponry.
However, operating UAS often require the use of satellite
communications, limiting the extent of their use.
SensorSky:
Implement sensor networks and mesh communications in UAS.
The mesh capability provides e.g., multi-hop link (UAS-toUAS), dynamic network reconfiguration (coping with high
mobility aspects) and aerial-ground support (UAS link to
vehicles and troops).
Deploy multiple UAS for a dramatic mission efficiency gain:
assess space and time configurations allowing to cover/monitor
wide areas, better support to ground assets, etc.

2. SensorSky – Sensors in the Sky
The concept of the Mobile Ad hoc NETworks (MANET) has
been exploited for ground assets.
We propose exploring this concept to the air domain.
CATEC UAVs to be
CATEC UAVs to be
extended with sensors
extended with sensors
and mesh comms
and mesh comms
Challenges:
- Sensor networking configurations (meeting mission req.)
- Implement 360º radio comms supporting Mesh in UAS
- Dynamic network topology - maximise performance
(e.g., smart routing, # hops), broadband
- Multi-UAS cooperation (to maximise goals and performance)
- Determine space and time localisation of the collective for
best performance
- Air space control and collision avoidance
Possible Project Phases:
Phase 1:
Phase 2:
Phase 1:
Phase 2:
Simulation and PoCOperational Demonstrations
Simulation and PoCOperational Demonstrations
RINICOM and
THALES:
Comms and C4I

3. SensorSky – Sensors in the Sky
Military Exploitation:
- Increased force survivability: improved
observation and connectivity (including to
ground forces)
- High performance datalinks: streaming data
(sensor data, imagery and video)
- Increased area surveillance and monitoring:
improved situational awareness.
- No need for major investments in
infrastructures (terrestial or space)
- Dual-use potential
Link to CapTech:
- IAP4 (CIS & Networks)
- ESM2 (Aerial Platforms)
- IAP2 and IAP3 (e.g., EW, EO, IR sensors)
The Consortium:
THALES Communications & Security is
world leader in military communications networks
(satellite, radios, naval & infrastructure, airborne),
command information systems and system integration
FADA-CATEC is a Spanish RTO dedicated to R&D in
aerospace related technologies. On going work on UAVrelated research includes aerial-ground integration and
multi-robot collaboration
RINICOM (UK SME): manufacturer of bespoke wireless
broadband solutions for Security and Defence markets.
Brings know-how on advanced networking technologies
and surveillance system for autonomous systems
Expertise Sought: UAV Manufacturer (complementing
CATEC's systems), UAV sensor equipment provider,
RTO with Simulation Expertise, End-users
POC: Marco Manso – RINICOM Ltd.
(marco@rinicom.com)