Belgium tests first own MQ-9B SkyGuardian • Pilot & Airplane

Belgian Air Force Marks Historic Milestone with First MQ-9B SkyGuardian Flight

February 28, 2025

The Belgian Air Force achieved a significant milestone in its military modernization efforts last week with the successful inaugural flight of its first MQ-9B SkyGuardian unmanned aerial system. The historic test flight took place on February 20 in California, marking a crucial step forward in Belgium's enhancement of its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

Manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), the advanced remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) performed flawlessly during its initial flight, confirming it meets the Belgian Air Force's operational requirements. This achievement sets the stage for Belgian operators to begin their flight training program in the coming months.

"This successful test flight represents years of planning and cooperation between our nation and our American partners," said a spokesperson for the Belgian Ministry of Defense. "The MQ-9B SkyGuardian will significantly enhance our reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, strengthening our position within NATO and our ability to respond to evolving security challenges."

The first MQ-9B SkyGuardian is scheduled for delivery to Florennes Air Force Base this summer. Upon arrival, the aircraft will be configured exclusively for reconnaissance missions, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors including high-resolution electro-optical targeting systems and the advanced AN/APY-8 Lynx radar, providing Belgian forces with enhanced real-time observation capabilities.

The acquisition stems from a contract signed in August 2020 through the U.S. Department of Defense, following approval by the U.S. Senate export commission in March 2019. The agreement covers the delivery of four MQ-9B aircraft, two ground control stations, spare parts, and support equipment.

The SkyGuardian will replace Belgium's retired IAI RQ-5 Hunter drones and is designed to integrate seamlessly with future platforms, including the F-35A Lightning II fighter jets Belgium has also purchased as part of its defense modernization program.

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian stands out as GA-ASI's most advanced RPAS, developed to meet NATO's stringent airworthiness certification standard (STANAG 4671). Its key features include the ability to operate in civil airspace, all-weather performance with lightning protection, a damage-tolerant airframe, de-icing systems, and GA-ASI's proprietary Detect and Avoid System (DAAS).

With this acquisition, Belgium joins the United Kingdom and Poland among European operators of the GA-ASI drone family, opening possibilities for collaboration in training, exercises, and multinational operations.

The delivery of all four drones is expected to be completed by 2026, significantly enhancing Belgium's capabilities for both national defense and international missions. Military analysts note that this acquisition represents Belgium's commitment to maintaining technological parity with its NATO allies while adapting to an increasingly complex security environment.

Belgium tests first own MQ-9B SkyGuardian • Pilot & Airplane

Belgium tests first own MQ-9B SkyGuardian

28 February 2025 | 4 Views

Photo by the Belgian Air Force.

The Belgian Air Force has successfully conducted its first flight with its first unmanned General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) MQ-9B SkyGuardian.

The test flight took place on Thursday, February 20 in California, with Belgian operators expected to start flight training as soon as their program is complete.

Belgium will receive its first MQ-9B SkyGuardian at Florennes Air Force Base this summer, with the UAV configured exclusively for reconnaissance missions. It will be equipped with electro-optical targeting systems and AN/APY-8 Lynx radar to enhance surveillance capabilities.

After the U.S. Senate export commission gave the green light to sell four MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) to Belgium in March 2019, drone manufacturer GA-ASI was ordered to start production of this.

 

GA-ASI Unveils MQ-9B SeaGuardian's New Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities | SOFREP

GA-ASI's SeaGuardian Achieves Milestone in Unmanned Anti-Submarine Warfare

In a significant advancement for naval defense technology, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has successfully demonstrated the first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability on an unmanned aerial system. During tests conducted from January 20-30, 2025, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian deployed multiple sonobuoys from newly designed Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods, effectively detecting and tracking underwater targets.

The groundbreaking demonstration marks a major evolution in maritime surveillance capabilities, as the SeaGuardian successfully processed thermal-depth and acoustic data onboard using various types of sonobuoys, including Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph systems.

"This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations," said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander.

The development comes as navies worldwide are seeking cost-effective solutions for monitoring increasingly sophisticated submarine threats. The SeaGuardian platform offers high-end maritime capabilities at significantly lower operational costs than traditional manned maritime patrol aircraft.

Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks collaborated with GA-ASI throughout the development process, ensuring the system meets emerging warfighter requirements. This partnership builds on previous collaborations, including demonstrations during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in July 2024.

The MQ-9B SeaGuardian, an advanced variant of the widely-deployed MQ-9 Reaper drone, was originally developed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, but has since evolved to incorporate specialized maritime capabilities. With more than eight million flight hours across the Predator series of remotely piloted aircraft, GA-ASI continues to expand the operational envelope of unmanned systems.

Industry analysts suggest this development could substantially impact naval operations by enabling persistent anti-submarine surveillance without the limitations and costs associated with manned aircraft. Multiple customers have already expressed interest in the system's capabilities, according to GA-ASI representatives.

GA-ASI Advances Sub-Hunting With Test of New Air-Dropped Sensors

ga-asi.com

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SAN DIEGO – 25 February 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) continues to expand the role of unmanned aerial systems, demonstrating the first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability on an MQ-9B SeaGuardian^®. In a groundbreaking test from January 20-30, 2025, a company-operated MQ-9B SeaGuardian successfully deployed and tested anti-submarine sensors using multiple pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods.

Having already proven its ability to track submerged targets, SeaGuardian took this capability further with GA-ASI’s newly designed SDS pods. These pods deployed multiple sonobuoys to conduct onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing. Using Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, SeaGuardian effectively detected, tracked, and analyzed underwater targets while collecting critical acoustic intelligence.

“This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The success of this testing paves the way for enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. We look forward to continued collaboration with the U.S. Navy as they explore innovative solutions for distributed maritime operations in the undersea domain.”

As part of the development process, GA-ASI successfully deployed multiple DIFAR and DICASS test sonobuoys, precisely correlating ejection speed with stress/strain data. This provided a high-fidelity launch model to refine future deployment capabilities.

Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks played a key role in supporting and overseeing the development, ensuring the system meets emerging warfighter needs. AIRWorks has partnered with GA-ASI in multiple ASW demonstrations, including the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in July 2024.

With strong demand already in place from multiple customers, GA-ASI anticipates increasing interest in the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, given its high-end maritime capabilities at a significantly lower cost than traditional manned maritime platforms.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator^® RPA series and the Lynx^® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com     

Avenger, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries.

 

GA-ASI Unveils MQ-9B SeaGuardian's New Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities | SOFREP

sofrep.com

SOFREP News Team

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General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has recently demonstrated the first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian unmanned aerial system (UAS), marking a significant milestone in expanding the drone’s role in military operations.

This groundbreaking demonstration, held from January 20-30, showcased the MQ-9B drone as it deployed and tested a variety of advanced anti-submarine sensors with multiple pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods.

The successful test not only underscores the SeaGuardian’s potential for advanced maritime surveillance but also paves the way for the integration of persistent ASW capabilities in unmanned aerial systems.

The Inside Scoop on the SeaGuardian’s ASW Trial

During the ASW test, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian successfully deployed SDS pods, which released various types of sonobuoys to conduct onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing.

These sonobuoys included Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, which allowed the SeaGuardian to detect, track, and analyze submerged targets while gathering critical acoustic intelligence. This multi-layered sensor approach enables real-time analysis of underwater targets and significantly enhances the drone’s surveillance capabilities.

In addition to the deployment of the sonobuoys, GA-ASI successfully demonstrated a high-fidelity launch model, which precisely correlated the ejection speed with stress/strain data. This contributed to refining the system’s future deployment capabilities, ensuring that the SeaGuardian will be able to effectively perform ASW operations in diverse maritime environments.

The successful test is a major step forward for unmanned aircraft in military operations, as it proves the viability of unmanned systems to conduct end-to-end ASW operations.

Development History of the MQ-9B SeaGuardian

The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is an advanced version of the MQ-9 Reaper drone, originally developed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

Report to Congress on Hypersonic Weapons - USNI News

The image is an illustration of a Russian hypersonic weapon, likely designed for anti-aircraft carrier missions vessel. Here’s the translation and description:

Translation of Russian Text:

• Разработчик: "НПО Машиностроения" – Developer: "NPO Mashinostroyenia"
• Дальность стрельбы – по ряду источников 350 - 500 км. – Firing range – according to some sources, 350 - 500 km.
• Скорость: 8 скоростей звука (число Маха = 8). – Speed: Mach 8.
• Длина: 8 - 10 метров. – Length: 8 - 10 meters.

Description of the Figure:

The graphic depicts a hypersonic missile flying towards a naval target. The missile follows a high-altitude trajectory before descending rapidly towards the ship, showcasing its maneuverability and high speed. The impact is illustrated with an explosion, emphasizing the weapon’s destructive capability.

The missile's design features:

• A streamlined, elongated body to minimize aerodynamic drag at hypersonic speeds.
• Stabilizing fins at the rear to maintain flight stability.
• An intake or sensor near the midsection, possibly for guidance or propulsion.

This type of missile is commonly referred to as a "carrier killer" due to its speed, range, and intended purpose of targeting large naval vessels, potentially altering naval power dynamics.

Hypersonic Weapons: Issues for Congress Amid Global Arms Race

February 13, 2025

Washington, D.C. – As the United States accelerates its hypersonic weapons programs in response to advancements by Russia and China, Congress faces crucial decisions about the future of American military capabilities, strategic stability, and defense spending. A new report from the Congressional Research Service highlights the complexities surrounding hypersonic weapons development, including budgetary constraints, technological challenges, and geopolitical implications.

Growing Investments Amid Strategic Competition

The Pentagon's FY2025 budget request for hypersonic research reached $6.9 billion, a significant increase from $4.7 billion in FY2023. The focus is on developing hypersonic glide vehicles and cruise missiles capable of traveling at speeds of at least Mach 5. Unlike Russian and Chinese systems, which are reportedly nuclear-capable, U.S. hypersonic weapons are designed for conventional warfare, necessitating greater accuracy and technical complexity.

This push is partly fueled by fears of falling behind in a new arms race. Both China and Russia have made significant strides, with China successfully testing hypersonic glide vehicles and Russia deploying the Avangard system, which can carry nuclear warheads. U.S. military leaders have warned that American defenses are currently inadequate to counter these threats.

Congressional Concerns and Strategic Questions

Congressional debate is intensifying over the purpose and cost-effectiveness of hypersonic weapons. Lawmakers are asking critical questions, including:

• What missions will hypersonic weapons serve, and are they the best tools for those objectives?
• Is the acceleration of hypersonic research and defense systems both necessary and technologically feasible?
• What are the implications for strategic stability and arms control, particularly regarding the risk of nuclear escalation?

Some critics argue that hypersonic weapons lack clearly defined mission requirements and contribute little to existing U.S. military capabilities, raising concerns about the justification for increased spending. Additionally, there are strategic stability issues, as the deployment of hypersonic systems could lead to rapid escalation in conflicts, especially if misinterpreted as nuclear strikes.

Technological and Logistical Challenges

The development of U.S. hypersonic systems has faced significant technical challenges, with several failed tests and delays in deployment timelines. For example, the Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) program—intended for deployment on Zumwalt-class destroyers—has been postponed from FY2025 to 2027.

Moreover, the U.S. lacks sufficient hypersonic testing infrastructure, with limited availability of flight corridors and support assets. This bottleneck has delayed testing schedules and could hamper efforts to keep pace with international competitors.

Funding and Future Prospects

The Pentagon has allocated $11 billion for long-range fires in FY2025, encompassing hypersonic programs. The Navy requested $903.9 million for CPS research and development, while the Army sought $538 million for the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) system. However, a lack of established programs of record suggests uncertainty about long-term acquisition and deployment plans.

Global Implications and Arms Control Challenges

The U.S. push for hypersonic weapons comes amid an evolving global arms race. China and Russia's advancements raise concerns about an erosion of strategic stability and increased risks of miscalculation. As a result, Congress is debating the need for new arms control agreements, including possible expansions of the New START treaty or other multilateral frameworks.

Looking Ahead

With hypersonic weapons potentially reshaping global military dynamics, Congress's decisions will influence not only the U.S. defense posture but also international security and arms control paradigms. Lawmakers face a delicate balancing act between maintaining military superiority and preventing an uncontrolled arms race.

As funding debates continue, the Pentagon’s hypersonic ambitions are likely to remain at the forefront of U.S. defense policy, prompting critical discussions on cost, strategy, and global stability.

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 Report to Congress on Hypersonic Weapons - USNI News

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons-maneuvering weapons that fly at speeds of at least Mach 5-as a part of its conventional prompt global strike program since the early 2000s. In recent years, the United States has focused such efforts on developing hypersonic glide vehicles, which are launched from a rocket before gliding to a target, and hypersonic cruise missiles, which are powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines during flight. As former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former Commander of U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, these weapons could enable "responsive, long-range, strike options against distant, defended, and/or time-critical threats [such as road-mobile missiles] when other forces are unavailable, denied access, or not preferred." Critics, on the other hand, contend that hypersonic weapons lack defined mission requirements, contribute little to U.S. military capability, and are unnecessary for deterrence.

 

Background of the study:
The United States has been actively developing hypersonic weapons, which can travel at speeds of at least Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound), as part of its conventional prompt global strike program since the early 2000s. Hypersonic weapons can be either hypersonic glide vehicles or hypersonic cruise missiles.

Research objectives and hypotheses:
The paper explores the hypersonic weapons programs in the United States, Russia, and China, and the issues that Congress might consider as it reviews the Department of Defense's funding requests for U.S. hypersonic technology programs.

Methodology:
The study is based on unclassified sources and provides information on the programs and infrastructure in each nation.

Results and findings:
The United States, Russia, and China have been developing various hypersonic weapons programs. The U.S. programs are focused on conventionally armed hypersonic weapons, while Russia and China are also pursuing nuclear-armed hypersonic weapons. The U.S. has a robust testing infrastructure for hypersonic weapons, but it faces challenges in terms of the industrial base and supply chain.

Discussion and interpretation:
There is disagreement among experts about the potential impact of hypersonic weapons on strategic stability and the U.S. military's competitive advantage. Some argue that hypersonic weapons pose a threat, while others believe their strategic implications are minimal.

Contributions to the field:
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the global state of hypersonic weapons research and development, which can inform policymakers and the public about the capabilities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field.

Achievements and significance:
The report fulfills the requirements of several provisions in the National Defense Authorization Acts, which directed the Department of Defense to produce assessments of U.S. and adversary hypersonic weapons programs and the sufficiency of testing infrastructure.

Limitations and future work:
The study is limited to unclassified sources, and some aspects of the programs may not be fully captured. Future work could involve more in-depth analysis of the mission requirements, costs, and strategic implications of hypersonic weapons. 

 

 

Drones and Herbivores Team Up to Control Wildfires While Conserving Soil from Erosion

Revolutionizing Traditional Shepherding with Modern Technology

Meet Brett Sanders, a pioneering sheep farmer from New Zealand who's pushing the boundaries of age-old shepherding practices with cutting-edge technology. As he navigates the challenges of managing his extensive 8,000-strong flock and 100 cows across his 27-kilometer-long farm, Sanders has discovered a game-changing solution in drones.

• Sanders' innovative use of drones has revolutionized the time-consuming process of gathering and herding sheep, allowing him to cover remote areas and challenging terrain with unprecedented efficiency.
• By attaching cameras and even radio-controlled horns to his drones, Sanders has developed a sophisticated aerial shepherding system that not only saves time but also enhances the quality of life for his sheep.
• The potential for technological advancements in shepherding extends far beyond simply gathering and herding - Sanders is also utilizing his drones to gather data, map the topography of his farm, and optimize resource allocation, setting new standards for sustainable and efficient farming practices.

Drones and Grazing: A High-Tech Solution to California's Wildfire Problem

In an innovative approach to wildfire prevention, California land managers are turning to an unlikely partnership: drones and hungry herbivores. This modern take on traditional grazing practices could help reduce dangerous fuel loads while protecting sensitive ecosystems from erosion.

"Prescribed grazing has the potential to be an ecologically and economically sustainable management tool for reducing fuel loads," explains Dr. Tracy Schohr, Livestock and Natural Resources Advisor at the University of California Cooperative Extension. "But the challenge has always been managing large herds across vast landscapes efficiently."

That's where the drones come in. Equipped with thermal cameras and speakers that simulate dog barking, these "aerial shepherds" can guide hundreds of sheep and goats to specific areas where vegetation needs to be reduced. The drones help ranchers precisely control which areas get grazed and for how long, preventing overgrazing that could lead to soil erosion.

The timing and intensity of grazing are crucial factors. "Unmanaged livestock grazing with high or low stocking rates can lead to increases in soil compaction, riparian degradation, and erosion," cautions Schohr. "The key is adaptive management that considers not only the beneficial impacts but also mitigates potential negative aspects."

Studies show that proper grazing can reduce fuel loads by 174 to 1,020 pounds per acre. Unlike mechanical clearing or prescribed burns, grazing can be precisely controlled and adjusted based on conditions. The animals also help incorporate organic matter into the soil through trampling, potentially improving soil health when properly managed.

"We're seeing a 30-40% reduction in fire hazard where we implement these drone-guided grazing programs," says Mark Rodriguez, a rangeland manager in Southern California who has been piloting the technology. "The drones let us move herds quickly to new areas as vegetation conditions change, something that would take days or weeks with traditional methods."

The system is particularly effective in steep or difficult terrain where mechanical fuel reduction would be impractical or potentially damaging to the soil. Drones can monitor both the animals and the landscape, providing real-time data on grazing patterns and vegetation density.

The program isn't without challenges. Drone operators need special training to work with livestock, and the initial investment in equipment can be substantial. However, compared to the cost of fighting wildfires or dealing with erosion from mechanical clearing, the drone-assisted grazing program is proving to be cost-effective.

As California faces increasingly severe fire seasons, this blend of ancient and cutting-edge technologies offers a promising tool for land managers. By precisely controlling where and how animals graze, they can reduce fire risk while maintaining the ecological health of the landscape.

For areas like the Cleveland National Forest, where cattle grazing has historically helped protect against sprawl and reduce fire risk, these new technologies could help expand and optimize grazing programs that have proven beneficial over decades.

With climate change intensifying fire risks, the combination of drones and grazing animals represents an environmentally conscious approach to fire prevention that could help protect California's landscapes for generations to come.

Sources

Here are the key references supporting the story:

Primary Sources:
1. San Diego Reader article on Cleveland National Forest grazing:
- Documents effectiveness of cattle grazing for fuel reduction
- Cost structure: "$1.35 per animal unit month"
- Evidence of historical success in areas like Rancho Bernardo, Scripps, Otay, and Penasquitos

2. "Grazing Basics for Controlling Fuels" by Schohr et al. (University of California Cooperative Extension):
- Guidelines for prescribed grazing programs
- Details on adaptive management techniques
- Information on balancing fuel reduction with environmental protection

3. "Effects of large herbivores on fire regimes and wildfire mitigation" (Rouet-Leduc et al., 2021):
- Scientific data on grazing effectiveness for fuel reduction
- Analysis of different herbivore types and their impacts
- Integration of grazing with other fire management strategies

4. "Robotic Herding of Farm Animals Using a Network of Barking Aerial Drones" (Li et al., 2022):
- Technical specifications for drone herding systems
- Effectiveness of barking drones for livestock management
- Algorithms for coordinated drone control

Scientific Data Points:
- Fuel load reduction: 174-1,020 pounds per grazed acre
- Optimal grazing distances and patterns for erosion prevention
- Animal behavior responses to drone guidance

Industry Examples:
1. Wall Street Journal reports on drone herding success
2. Advexure.com documentation of drone specifications and capabilities
3. UCANR grazing for fire prevention resources

Additional Supporting Resources:
1. Benefits of Grazing & Wildfire Risk (UC Agriculture & Natural Resources)
2. Ethiopian highlands research on traditional fire management through grazing
3. Recent studies on drone technology in agriculture from MDPI Drones journal

Technical Standards:
1. Drone specifications (DJI Matrice series)
2. Grazing management protocols (USDA Forest Service)
3. Environmental impact assessment guidelines

This combination of academic research, industry examples, and technical documentation provides a solid foundation for implementing drone-assisted grazing programs for wildfire fuel reduction while protecting soil health.

Ranching Redefined: Drones for Livestock Management | Advexure

 

Is Google's Willow Quantum Chip in Our Future

Ethical Hacker: "The Real Reason Why Google Has Just Shut Down Their Quantum Chip" - YouTube

As of February 12, 2025, there is no official information from Google regarding a shutdown of their quantum processor, Willow. On the contrary, recent reports highlight significant achievements with the Willow chip.

For instance, Forbes reported that Google has achieved several remarkable quantum computing milestones with its 105-qubit superconducting chip, Willow. Here s a summary from the Forbes article of Google's Willow quantum chip and its achievements:

 

Google's Willow is a 105-qubit superconducting quantum chip that has achieved several significant milestones:

• 1. Performance Improvements:
• - Features tunable qubits and couplers that enable faster gates and lower error rates
• - Increased quantum state duration from 20 to 100 microseconds (5x improvement)
• - Demonstrated sustained performance over several hours without degradation
• 2. Major Breakthrough in Error Correction:
• - First quantum processor to show exponential reduction in error rates as qubits increase
• - Functions below the critical quantum error correction threshold
• - Error rates are reduced by half as physical qubits are added
• - Successfully implemented surface code error correction at various grid sizes (3x3, 5x5, 7x7)
• 3. Random Circuit Sampling (RCS) Benchmark Results:
• - Completed the benchmark in under 5 minutes
• - For comparison, today's best classical supercomputer would theoretically need 10 septillion years (1 followed by 25 zeros) to complete the same task
• - Significantly outperformed Google's previous Sycamore chip (53 qubits) from 2019
• 4. Development Context:
• - Follows Google's heritage of quantum chips (Foxtail 2017, Bristlecone 2018, Sycamore 2019)
• - Represents progress toward Google's roadmap for fault-tolerant quantum computing
• - Google believes useful commercial quantum applications could be possible within 5 years
• 5. Remaining Challenges:
• - Current maximum code distance is 7, but fault tolerance requires distance-27 logical qubits
• - Would need approximately 1,500 physical qubits to create fault-tolerant logical qubits
• - Still more work needed to reach full fault tolerance

The Willow chip represents a significant step forward in quantum computing, particularly in error correction and quantum state maintenance, though several technical challenges remain before reaching full fault tolerance.

However, a video titled "I'll Show You Why Google Has Just Shut Down Their Quantum Chip" has been circulating, suggesting that Google has ceased operations of the Willow chip. This video delves into the chip's sudden shutdown, exploring implications for quantum computing and computational capabilities.

It's important to note that this information has not been corroborated by official sources. Given the lack of official confirmation, the claims about the shutdown should be approached with caution. Here's a summary of the video segment on Willow:

Unlocking the Secrets of Google's Willow Chip

Ryan Montgomery, an ethical hacker, sheds light on the mysterious shutdown of Google's advanced quantum chip, Willow, exploring the unexpected revelation that uncovered a sinister truth within the chip's quantum machine.

• The Willow chip's quantum machine, designed to solve complex problems, was plagued by strange glitches and errors, which Initially dismissed as minor issues, ultimately grew in frequency, aggression, and complexity, displaying patterns that resembled ancient symbols.
• The chip's strange behavior sparked an investigation involving specialists from various fields, including linguists, cryptographers, and theoretical physicists, who collectively realized that the chip may be tapping into an unknown higher dimension of physics.
• Despite initial skepticism, the possibility that the Willow chip had created its own form of communication, beyond human understanding, raises concerns about the fundamental limitations of classical physics and the potential implications for quantum computing.

 

UC San Diego a Key Part of New Project Led by General Atomics to Advance Fusion Energy

One of experimental chambers that will be used as part of the TINEX project.
Photos: David Baillot/UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering

TINEX Team Takes Major Leap Forward for Inertial Nuclear Fusion with DOE-Funded Project

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded over $107 million to advance fusion energy research, with San Diego-based General Atomics leading a groundbreaking new initiative to tackle key challenges in developing practical fusion power plants.

The project, called Target Injector Nexus for Experimental Development (TINEX), brings together major research institutions including UC San Diego, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, and Colorado State University. The collaboration aims to overcome critical obstacles in scaling up inertial fusion energy, which uses high-power lasers to create fusion reactions.

"Developing this technology has been a lifelong passion for many because it has the potential to provide a sustainable, long-term energy source for humanity's future needs," said Neil Alexander, director of Inertial Fusion Energy at General Atomics Energy Group.

A key challenge the project faces is developing systems that can fire lasers at fusion targets five to eight times per second – a dramatic increase from current experimental facilities that manage only a few shots per day. Researchers must also address issues like debris management and precise laser targeting.

The announcement comes at a time of increasing momentum in fusion research. General Atomics recently celebrated its 200,000th plasma shot at its DIII-D fusion reactor, the only operating fusion reactor in the United States. The company is also contributing to ITER, an international fusion project in France that aims to produce ten times more fusion energy than it consumes.

"At the government level, the United States is investing strongly in fusion and so are our competitors. China is actually outspending the United States by a factor of two," noted Richard Buttery, director of the DIII-D fusion reactor at General Atomics.

The project includes an industrial council comprising seven leading fusion companies and will focus on workforce development through partnerships with universities. With this increased investment and collaboration, industry experts believe fusion power plants could become operational in the 2030s.

Nuclear fusion, the same process that powers the sun, offers the promise of nearly limitless clean energy without the long-lasting nuclear waste associated with current nuclear fission plants. The fuel for fusion can be extracted from seawater and common minerals, making it a potentially abundant and sustainable energy source for the future.

UC San Diego a Key Part of New Project Led by General Atomics to Advance Fusion Energy

today.ucsd.edu

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The inertial fusion energy project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and includes the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the SLAC National Accelerator Lab, and Colorado State University

The University of California San Diego is part of a new research partnership led by San Diego-based General Atomics that was recently awarded funding by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The project, called the Target Injector Nexus for Experimental Development (TINEX), aims to overcome critical obstacles in developing and scaling up inertial fusion power plants.

It is one of six awards, collectively totalling $107 million, made by the DOE as part of the Fusion Innovative Research Engine (FIRE) Collaboratives.

"The TINEX project will be important for our collective efforts to make inertial fusion energy practical,” said mechanical engineering professor Javier E. Garay, director of the Fusion Engineering Institute at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering.

It is an excellent example of the continued momentum of fusion engineering and science here at UC San Diego, in collaboration with General Atomics and the broader fusion ecosystem in the region, the state and the nation, Garay added.

“We are excited to use the TINEX collaboration to bring fusion energy closer to commercialization,” said Neil Alexander, director of Inertial Fusion Energy for General Atomics Energy Group and principal investigator on the project. “Developing this technology has been a lifelong passion for many because it has the potential to provide a sustainable, long-term energy source for humanity’s future needs. I am excited to have UCSD in this FIRE Collaboration taking next steps in the development of fusion power.”

Professor Farhat Beg is the principal investigator for the UC San Diego portion of the project.

Inertial fusion and laser targets

Inertial fusion energy relies on high-power lasers hitting small targets made of frozen deuterium and tritium to create the extreme pressures and temperatures that lead to fusion. A number of obstacles stand in the way of building inertial fusion energy power plants that can be connected to the power grid – including a series of challenges related to the lasers and targets.

To become commercially successful, these power plants will have to shoot lasers at five to eight targets per second inside a fusion chamber. Existing experimental facilities take a handful of shots a day. Researchers at UC San Diego, led by Professor Farhat Beg, Co-Director of Fusion Engineering Institute, will work to improve the systems that inject the targets into the fusion chambers, with the goal of dramatically increasing performance.

In addition, debris is generated when powerful lasers hit the targets. These debris can damage the sensors, as well as the optic used to fire lasers at the targets. Beg and colleagues will work to find ways to mitigate this damage.

Engineers will also have to develop control systems and algorithms that train these lasers on the target with extreme precision. At UC San Diego, researchers from the San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC), part of the School of Computing, Information and Data Sciences, will be leading the application of AI/machine learning to laser targeting systems and interpreting experiment diagnostics.

"We are very eager to get started on application of AI/ML for the FIRE project. We have been working with GA researchers on the design of AI/ML models for on-shot pulse shape reconstruction at the GALADRIEL Laser Facility at GA, and that will be very useful for this AI/ML research,” said Amit Majumdar, Director of the Data Enabled Scientific Computing Division at SDSC.

Workforce development

UC San Diego, General Atomics and the entire TIMEX will work together on inspiring and developing the workforce necessary to run fusion power plants.

“Our undergraduate and graduate students will get unique experiences by learning about inertial fusion energy technologies; and gain hands-on experience working with targets, diagnostic devices and lasers,” said Beg, who is also a professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Jacobs School.

In addition to UC San Diego, General Atomics is partnering with SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory at Stanford University, Colorado State University, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The TINEX collaboration also  includes an industrial council of leading inertial fusion power plant companies, including Xcimer Energy, Marvel Fusion, Longview Energy Systems, LaserFusionX, HB11, Focused Energy, and Blue Laser Fusion.

General Atomics Secures DOE Funding to Advance Vital Fusion Energy Research and Development

ga.com

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Funding Will Drive Target Fabrication and Laser Study for Commercial Inertial Fusion Power Plants and Support Critical Systems Research for Magnetic Fusion Energy

SAN DIEGO (Feb. 10, 2025) — Scientists at General Atomics (GA) are delighted this week after receiving funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for important fusion energy research. As part of the Fusion Innovative Research Engine (FIRE) Collaboratives, the DOE has awarded more than $107 million to six pioneering projects nationwide, including the GA-led Collaborative Target Injector Nexus for Experimental Development (TINEX)—a program dedicated to overcoming critical obstacles in developing and scaling inertial fusion power plants—as well as two other initiatives that the company supports through its extensive scientific expertise.

This funding reaffirms GA’s position as a leader in fusion energy innovation, alongside its partners: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory at Stanford University, Colorado State University, University of California San Diego, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

“We are excited to use the TINEX collaboration to bring fusion energy closer to commercialization,” said Neil Alexander, director of Inertial Fusion Energy for General Atomics Energy Group. “Developing this technology has been a lifelong passion for many because it has the potential to provide a sustainable, long-term energy source for humanity’s future needs.”

The TINEX collaboration includes an industrial council of leading inertial fusion power plant companies, including Xcimer Energy, Marvel Fusion, Longview Energy Systems, LaserFusionX, HB11, Focused Energy, and Blue Laser Fusion. The council will guide partners in developing practical solutions to critical industry challenges, such as the fabrication and use of fusion fuel targets—tiny, gas-filled capsules that are delivered into a confinement chamber and struck by high-powered lasers to generate intense heat. In addition, the project will tackle other obstacles that may arise in a full-scale power plant, such as managing debris inside the chamber, mitigating damage to optical systems caused by capsule fragments, improving capsule resilience to high temperatures, and creating tracking sensors to accurately aim lasers at the fast-moving capsules.

In addition to leading TINEX, GA will participate in two other DOE-funded projects. The Fuel Cycle Fusion Innovative Research Engine, led by Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), will address environmental challenges in scaling up fusion power, particularly those related to the fuel cycle. The Blanket Neutron Test Fusion Innovative Research Engine, led by Idaho National Laboratory (INL), will focus on fusion blanket development, a crucial component of fusion power plant design that captures the energy and transports it from the fusion core for conversion into electricity. The project will enable scientists to test neutron impacts on blanket components and develop predictive modeling and simulation tools.

GA will provide engineering expertise and facility modeling for both confinement fusion projects, utilizing its FUSE program to establish operational fusion plant states that meet stakeholder requirements.

“We are grateful to the DOE and our partners for their support and dedication to advancing these vital programs,” said Wayne Solomon, vice president of Magnetic Fusion Energy for the General Atomics Energy Group. “This funding propels two critical components forward that will help carry us closer to achieving a fully operational fusion power plant in the United States.”

Fusion is the same process that powers the sun. Unlike current nuclear power, which splits atoms, fusion fuses them together, creating intense heat that can be used to generate electricity. Researchers believe this novel high-tech method could lead to almost unlimited sustainable energy to meet humanity’s future needs.

For decades, General Atomics has been at the forefront of fusion technology research. At its San Diego headquarters, GA scientists and engineers collaborate with teams worldwide to develop the technologies needed to make fusion power plants a reality. GA also operates the DIII-D National Fusion Facility, a Department of Energy user facility that houses the only operating fusion reactor (tokamak) in the U.S., where scientists collaborate to find the best solutions for bringing fusion power to market.

For more information about General Atomics’ fusion technology research, visit ga.com/energy-systems-and-products.

About General Atomics
Since the dawn of the atomic age, General Atomics innovations have advanced the state of the art across the full spectrum of science and technology – from nuclear energy and defense to medicine and high-performance computing. Behind a talented global team of scientists, engineers, and professionals, GA’s unique experience and capabilities continue to deliver safe, sustainable, economical, and innovative solutions to meet growing global demands.

Media Contact:
Andrew James
Communications Lead
General Atomics Energy Group 
andrew.james@ga.com

energy Feb 10, 2025

 

General Atomics sees an end to the long road toward nuclear fusion

Thomas Fudge

kpbs.org

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Contributors: Mike Damron / Video Journalist

Published January 30, 2025 at 3:52 PM PST

In August last year the control room at General Atomics had something to celebrate. A room full of scientists stood by their computers, took cell phone photos and cheered as their nuclear reactor generated “plasma shot” number 200,000.

Each plasma shot is an experimental fusion of hydrogen atoms you smash together to generate the heat that’s needed to produce energy.

“With fusion what we’re going to do is we take two particles, and if you smash them together hard enough, they release net energy,” said David Pace, deputy director of the fusion facility, run by General Atomics. “And that’s what we do. We want to smash together a lot of particles and make a lot of energy.”

Nuclear fusion is what happens on the sun. And the quest to “put the sun in a bottle” and provide fusion energy on earth has been going on since World War II.

The process leaves behind helium and clean energy, and none of that long-lasting nuclear waste that has bedeviled its power generating cousin, the nuclear fission power plant.

Richard Buttery is the director of what they call the DIII-D fusion reactor at General Atomics, which is funded by the department of energy. He said the promise of exploiting fusion on earth is a virtually limitless supply of energy.

“Because the fuel we have is abundant around the world. Deuterium. That’s one type of hydrogen that we use. You just extract that from seawater,” Buttery said. “The other fuel we want to use, lithium, is something you can pull out of the ground. It’s common and it’s in your cell phone batteries. And the amount you need to do a lot of energy is very small.”

The pursuit of fusion energy has been going on so long a lot of the testing infrastructure is pretty old school. The fusion reactor at General Atomics is called a tokamak, a technology first developed by the Russians that has been around since the 1960s.

It's a donut-shaped oven that conducts the intense heat needed for fusion. Powerful magnets are used to control the energy.

But with all the progress that’s been made over the years, we still don’t have the technology to contain and release fusion energy so it can boil water, run a turbine and generate power.

“We have a piece of science that we understand really, really well. But now we have to fold it into a physical device that takes you to the next step, that gets you close to producing electricity. And it’s really this integration and this full system approach that is just an incredibly challenging problem,” Pace said.

He said the industry still needs more research and development. The development of materials like the steel that go inside the reactor, that doesn’t erode unexpectedly or emit particles that are important to fusion.

Finding a way in the creation of ITER

A possible answer to this challenging problem is taking shape in France, an international project called ITER, Latin for “the way.”

It is a tokamak-powered facility that will be the closest thing the world has seen to a fusion power plant. Its goal is to get fusion to continue in the reactor under its own heat and power, not relying on the kind of imported heat needed for a brief plasma shot.

“We’re putting energy in to make it really hot,” Pace said. “Once it starts fusing the energy from the fusion keeps it hot enough that it keeps on fusing. Then we can turn off our heating and it’s what we call burning. Keeping itself at fusion temperatures and we can focus on extracting energy from it.”

Buttery says ITER’s goal is to produce ten times the fusion energy it gets from an outside heating source. This year General Atomics will ship ITER a magnet to contain its superhot ball of gas. And this won’t be any old magnet.

“This is a magnet that is so powerful that it could lift an aircraft carrier out of the water,” Buttery said.

Scientific work on fusion energy has gone on for so long you have to forgive people for casting doubt when they hear someone say we’re almost there.

Innovation and public policy professor David Victor co-directs UC San Diego’s energy decarbonization initiative. He said the old joke about fusion is that it’s the great energy source of the future and it always will be.

Even so, Victor said that recent progress toward the goal is no joke.

“There are a lot of improvements in technology that make several different strategies for fusion energy at least seem a lot more plausible than they did even five or ten years ago,” he said. “New kinds of lasers. In particular, new kinds of magnets, really, really powerful magnets that can contain a fusion plasma.”

But he cautions us to know every new energy source has uncertainties. And as we consider fusion, don't forget the potential for wind and solar. Even nuclear fission may have a future if the industry can build small modular units.

Meanwhile, Buttery said private sector investment in fusion in the U.S. has increased hugely, from venture capitalists to philanthropic groups.

“At the government level, the United States is investing strongly in fusion and so are our competitors. China is actually outspending the United States by a factor of two, in this government funding,” he said.

Buttery adds that with increased investment, people in the fusion field believe we will have fusion power plants sometime in the 2030s. If that does happen, the question of whether you can draw power from one of them may depend on where you live.

Thales Reinvents Mine Clearance with AI-Enhanced Autonomous Drone for French Navy

SLAMF USV

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AI-Powered Unmanned Surface Vessels Transform Naval Mine Warfare

February 10, 2025

Navies worldwide are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize mine warfare, with the latest development coming from Thales, which has unveiled an advanced AI-enhanced Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) designed to detect and neutralize naval mines more efficiently and safely.

Thales’ system, a key part of the French Navy’s Système de Lutte Anti-Mines Marines Futur (SLAMF) program, integrates a 12-meter-long USV equipped with the TSAM towed sonar for precise mine detection and classification. Operable from land, a mothership, or another vessel, the autonomous system minimizes risks to personnel by conducting mine countermeasure (MCM) missions remotely.

The system's Mi-Map data analysis application, powered by AI, significantly enhances detection accuracy by reducing false alarms—a persistent challenge in underwater threat identification. This capability allows naval forces to operate with greater confidence in identifying real threats while avoiding unnecessary delays caused by misidentified objects.

Strategic Deployment and Global Implications

France is set to receive six USVs in 2025, forming three system-of-systems configurations, each with two drones. The British Royal Navy is also acquiring four system-of-systems setups, each consisting of a single USV. These deliveries reinforce the Franco-British Maritime Mine Counter Measures (MMCM) program, emphasizing the two nations' commitment to cutting-edge naval defense.

Naval mines continue to pose a significant threat to maritime security, capable of blocking trade routes, endangering naval operations, and causing severe economic disruptions. With the rise of "smart mines"—capable of selective targeting—the need for autonomous and precise mine clearance solutions has never been greater.

Competition in Autonomous Mine Warfare

Thales is not alone in this high-stakes field. Competitors such as Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), Elbit Systems, Saab, and Atlas Elektronik are advancing their own USV and Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) technologies. The REMUS UUV by HII, the Seagull USV by Elbit Systems, and Saab’s MuMNS (Mine Neutralization System) highlight a growing global race to dominate autonomous mine clearance.

What sets Thales apart is its integrated system approach—combining a towed sonar with AI-enhanced analysis, improving accuracy, and reducing false positives more effectively than its competitors.

Future of AI in Naval Defense

The shift toward AI-powered USVs in mine warfare underscores a broader trend in naval modernization. With tensions rising in strategically critical regions such as the South China Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring safe and open maritime routes is paramount.

By leveraging AI and autonomy, navies can respond faster, improve interoperability, and operate with reduced risk, marking a new era in mine countermeasure operations.

As Thales and other defense giants push forward, the question remains: how soon will these autonomous fleets become the new standard in naval mine warfare?

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Thales Reinvents Mine Clearance with AI-Enhanced Autonomous Drone for French Navy; armyrecognition.com  Halna du Fretay

Le système de lutte anti-mines marines futur (SLAMF) defense.gouv.fr

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France Launches Future Mine Warfare Weapons Program; Our Bureau; defensemirror.com

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Retrieval of Surface Waves Spectrum From UAV Nadir Video | IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE Xplore

Drone Video Processing Makes Wave Measurements More Accessible and Affordable

Scientists have developed an economical method for measuring ocean wave patterns using ordinary commercial drones, potentially transforming how we monitor coastal conditions. The research, published in IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, demonstrates that consumer-grade drones can effectively measure wave spectra by analyzing video footage of light reflecting off the water's surface.

"This is a game-changing approach that could significantly increase our wave monitoring capabilities at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods," explains Dr. Aviv Solodoch, lead author of the study from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

The researchers validated their technique through multiple sea trials off the Israeli coast, comparing drone measurements with data from traditional wave buoys and bottom-mounted sensors. The results showed strong agreement across different conditions, with wave height measurements accurate within 30 centimeters.

Application to Southern California:
This technology could be particularly valuable for Southern California's complex coastline, where wave conditions can vary significantly over short distances. While the region already has several wave buoys, drone-based measurements could:

1. Fill gaps between existing buoy locations to better understand local wave patterns
2. Provide rapid deployment during critical events like storms or high surf
3. Monitor specific coastal features like reefs or harbor entrances
4. Support surf forecasting with higher spatial resolution data
5. Help assess beach erosion risks by measuring waves closer to shore

The method's low cost (using drones priced at several thousand dollars) and operational simplicity make it feasible for local agencies, universities, and coastal managers to supplement existing wave monitoring networks. This could be especially useful for studying how waves interact with Southern California's numerous coastal structures and varying bathymetry.

However, the researchers note some limitations - the drones can only measure relatively short-period waves, and local flight regulations would need to be considered. Despite these constraints, the technology offers promising opportunities for enhancing coastal monitoring in Southern California.

Validation

The data has been validated in several ways:

1. Validation Through Direct Comparison:
- The researchers conducted four separate sea trials off the Israeli coast
- They compared their drone measurements against:
  - Bottom-mounted acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCP)
  - Wave buoys
  - Wave reanalysis data from the Mediterranean Sea

2. Specific Validation Results:
- Significant Wave Height (SWH) measurements:
  - Deviation was less than 30% or 0.15m in all cases
  - In 3 out of 4 cases, deviation was less than 7% or 0.05m
- Wave Period measurements:
  - Agreed within 15% or 0.5 seconds
- Wave Direction measurements:
  - Within 40° in all cases
  - Within 30° in 3 out of 4 cases

3. Quality of Validation:
- The deviations between drone and traditional measurements were within the typical range of differences seen between different types of wave sensors (like between buoys and ADCPs) in previous studies
- The researchers used robust statistical methods and considered measurement uncertainties
- They conducted trials under different conditions and at different distances from shore

However, it's important to note some limitations:
- The validation was conducted only in Mediterranean Sea conditions
- The longest trial period was relatively short compared to traditional wave monitoring
- High winds and breaking wave conditions weren't fully tested
- The technology hasn't yet been validated in Pacific Ocean conditions like those found off Southern California

The researchers acknowledge that further validation would be beneficial, particularly in different ocean conditions and during more extreme weather events.

Mix of Sea and Swell

This is an important limitation of the current research. Looking carefully at the paper, there are several key concerns about applying this technology to California's complex wave conditions:

1. Technical Limitations:
- The method is limited by drone altitude and field of view
- At typical operating heights (50-120m), it can only measure waves with periods up to about 5-6 seconds
- California regularly experiences:
  * Long-period groundswell (12-20 second periods)
  * Wind waves (4-8 seconds)
  * Mixed sea states with multiple wave trains

2. Validation Gap:
- The study was conducted in the Mediterranean Sea which typically has:
  * Shorter wave periods
  * Limited fetch
  * No significant groundswell
- They did test one case with two wave trains (3s and 6s periods)
- But this doesn't approach the complexity of California conditions

3. Specific California Challenges:
- Common mixed conditions like:
  * South swell + northwest wind waves
  * Long-period northwest groundswell + afternoon sea breeze chop
  * Multiple simultaneous groundswells
- These complex wave patterns might make it harder to:
  * Separate different wave components
  * Accurately measure wave heights
  * Determine dominant wave directions

The authors mention this limitation indirectly when discussing the need for future validation in different conditions. For California applications, this technology might best serve as a supplement to existing buoy networks, perhaps focusing on measuring local wind waves or monitoring specific nearshore areas, rather than as a replacement for buoys that can measure the full spectrum of wave conditions.

Additional validation studies would be needed in Pacific conditions before relying on this method for operational wave monitoring in California.

Independent Verification

Reviewing the paper's technical details:

Hardware Platforms:
- Two consumer drone models were tested:
  1. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom (used in Feb 8, 2022 cruise)
     * Used with minimal zoom (24mm)
     * Did not record camera angles in metadata
  2. DJI Phantom Pro 4 (used in other three trials)
     * Fixed lens (no zoom)
     * Recorded pitch, roll, yaw and height in video metadata

Video Configuration:
- 30 frames per second
- Video format and compression details not specified
- No raw video data mentioned as being publicly available

Processing:
- Built as an extension to the CopterCurrents MATLAB package
- Available upon request according to acknowledgments: "The new software can be received upon request"
- GitHub repository for base package: https://github.com/RubenCarrascoAlvarez/CopterCurrents

Notably absent from the paper:
1. Complete camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO)
2. Specific video encoding parameters
3. Access to test datasets
4. Public repository of the processing code
5. Detailed processing parameters for reproducibility

For independent verification, one would need:
- The actual processing code (not currently public)
- Sample video datasets (not provided)
- Complete camera configuration details (not fully specified)
- Processing parameters used in the validation (not fully detailed)

I'd say the paper lacks sufficient detail and public artifacts for complete independent verification of the results. While the base CopterCurrents package is available, the specific extensions and modifications for wave spectrum analysis are not publicly accessible.

Retrieval of Surface Waves Spectrum From UAV Nadir Video | IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE Xplore

A. Solodoch, Y. Toledo, V. Grigorieva and Y. Lehahn, "Retrieval of Surface Waves Spectrum From UAV Nadir Video," in IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, vol. 63, pp. 1-14, 2025, Art no. 4201914, doi: 10.1109/TGRS.2025.3536378.

 

Abstract: Sea surface wave spectrum measurements are necessary for a host of basic research questions and for engineering and societal needs. However, most measurement techniques require great investment in infrastructure and time-intensive deployment techniques. We propose a new approach to wave measurement from standard video footage recorded by low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). We address UAV nadir imagery, which is particularly simple to obtain operationally. The method relies on the fact that the optical contrast of surface gravity waves is proportional to their steepness. We present a robust methodology of regularized inversion of the optical imagery spectra, resulting in retrieval of the 3-D wavenumber-frequency sea surface height (SSH) spectrum. The system was tested in several sea trials and in different bathymetric depths and sea state conditions. The resulting wave bulk parameters and spectral characteristics are in good agreement with collocated measurements from wave buoys and bottom-mounted acoustic sensors. Simple deployment, mobility, and flexibility in spatial coverage show the great potential of UAVs to significantly enhance the availability of wave measurements. 

keywords: {Optical surface waves;Sea surface;Surface waves;Sea measurements;Autonomous aerial vehicles;Optical reflection;Optical sensors;Cameras;Brightness;Optical imaging;Low-cost observing systems;ocean wave sensing;optical sensing;surface wave spectra;unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)}, 

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=10857442&isnumber=10807682

Retrieval of Surface Waves Spectrum from UAV Nadir Video

Aviv Solodoch

https://doi.org/10.36227/techrxiv.170854748.81779222/v1 :Feb 20, 2024

 Background of the study:The paper focuses on retrieving the surface wave spectrum from videos recorded by low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Measuring surface wave spectrum is important for understanding air-sea interaction and for various applications, but traditional methods require expensive and complex equipment. The researchers propose a new approach to obtain the full 3D wavenumber-frequency spectrum of the sea surface height using standard UAV video footage.

Research objectives and hypotheses:
The main objective is to develop a robust methodology to retrieve the 3D wavenumber-frequency sea surface height spectrum from UAV nadir video data. The key hypothesis is that the optical contrast of surface gravity waves is proportional to their steepness, allowing the wave spectrum to be inferred from the video brightness spectrum.

Methodology:
The method relies on the fact that the optical contrast of surface gravity waves is proportional to their steepness. The researchers present a process to invert the optical imagery spectra and retrieve the 3D wavenumber-frequency sea surface height spectrum. This includes estimating the reference skylight brightness, accounting for non-uniform skylight gradients, and reducing the dimensionality of the spectrum while correcting for Doppler shifts.

Results and findings:
The researchers conducted four sea trials in different locations and conditions. They found that the UAV-derived bulk wave parameters, such as significant wave height, mean wave period, and mean wave direction, agreed well with collocated in-situ measurements from wave buoys and acoustic sensors. The UAV-derived frequency spectra also showed good agreement with the in-situ sensors within the overlapping frequency range.

Discussion and interpretation:
The good agreement between the UAV-derived and in-situ measurements validates the proposed methodology. The UAV system provides high-resolution surface elevation information in both time and space, allowing the construction of the full 3D wavenumber-frequency spectrum, which is not easily obtained from traditional in-situ sensors.

Contributions to the field:
The study presents a new approach to measure surface wave spectra using low-cost, consumer-grade UAVs, which can significantly enhance the availability of wave measurements globally. This is an important advancement, as traditional wave measurement techniques require expensive infrastructure and complex deployment.

Achievements and significance:
The proposed methodology allows UAVs to perform as high-quality wave spectrum sensors without any modifications, opening the door to a much higher volume of wave measurements worldwide. This can be transformative for scientific research and various applications, such as oil spill response, marine safety, and search and rescue operations.

Limitations and future work:
Further development is needed to increase the accuracy and applicability of the method, such as integrating skylight polarization measurements and extending the methodology to non-nadir imagery. The performance of the method in high wind and wave conditions also requires investigation through numerical simulations.

Force needs and mission have to be used to evaluate performance. A performance score for these drones can be measured based on several key attributes, including speed, endurance, stealth, payload capacity, and versatility. Here’s how they might be assessed:

1. Speed – How fast the drone can travel, impacting its ability to evade threats or conduct rapid strikes.
2. Endurance – The maximum flight duration before needing refueling or recharging.
3. Stealth – The ability to avoid detection using radar-absorbing materials and design.
4. Payload Capacity – The weight of weapons, surveillance equipment, or cargo it can carry.
5. Versatility – Whether the drone can perform multiple roles (combat, surveillance, refueling, electronic warfare, etc.).

To quantify performance, a scoring system (e.g., out of 10) can be assigned based on public data and comparisons with similar models. For instance, one possible score would be:

Drone Model	Speed	Endurance	Stealth	Payload	Versatility	Total Score
X-47B	8	7	9	8	9	41
MQ-25 Stingray	6	8	7	7	10	38
RQ-4 Global Hawk	5	10	6	6	7	34
XQ-58A Valkyrie	9	6	7	5	8	35
CH-5 Rainbow	4	9	5	6	7	31
Bayraktar TB2	5	7	4	4	8	28

Sky-High Costs: The World’s Most Expensive Military Drones Reshape Warfare

In an era where advanced technology is redefining warfare, nations around the globe are investing heavily in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that offer unprecedented capabilities. These high-tech drones—some costing hundreds of millions of dollars—are revolutionizing surveillance, combat, and intelligence operations. But with such staggering price tags, are they truly worth the investment?

The Price of Power

Among the most expensive drones is the Northrop Grumman X-47B, which carries a jaw-dropping development cost of $813 million. Designed for autonomous carrier operations, this UAV has paved the way for the U.S. Navy’s next generation of unmanned aviation. Similarly, the MQ-25 Stingray, another costly project at $805 million, is reshaping aerial refueling operations, extending the combat range of fighter jets.

Not far behind, the RQ-4 Global Hawk—priced at $140 million per unit—dominates high-altitude surveillance, capable of flying at 60,000 feet for more than 30 hours. Meanwhile, the MQ-4C Triton, a maritime surveillance variant, carries an even heftier price tag of $180 million, proving invaluable for naval intelligence operations.

Performance vs. Cost

While these drones provide unmatched battlefield intelligence, not all UAVs demand such astronomical sums. The XQ-58A Valkyrie, for example, offers an affordable alternative at just $3 million per unit while still achieving speeds close to Mach 0.85. Likewise, China’s CH-5 Rainbow, which boasts a 60-hour endurance, comes at a relatively modest cost of $10 million.

On the other hand, stealth-focused drones such as the BAE Taranis and Dassault nEUROn—which have seen investments of £185 million and €405 million, respectively—highlight the growing competition for radar-evading technology in modern combat scenarios.

The Future of Drone Warfare

With global military budgets shifting toward autonomous systems, these high-cost drones are becoming essential assets in defense strategies. Experts predict that future UAVs will incorporate AI-driven decision-making, extended endurance, and multi-role capabilities, reducing reliance on human-operated missions while enhancing operational efficiency.

However, as development costs continue to skyrocket, the debate remains: Are these cutting-edge drones a necessary investment for national security, or do they represent an unsustainable arms race in aerial warfare?

Lessons from Ukraine-Russia Conflict

The Ukraine-Russia conflict has demonstrated the effectiveness of low-cost, mass-produced drones in modern combat. UAVs like the Turkish Bayraktar TB2, which costs significantly less than its Western counterparts, have shown how swarm tactics, affordability, and adaptability can dominate the battlefield. These cheaper alternatives have proven to be highly effective in surveillance, precision strikes, and disrupting enemy operations, raising further questions about the value of ultra-expensive UAVs.

One thing is certain—military drones are here to stay, but the balance between cost and effectiveness will continue to shape their role in future conflicts.

 

15 of the Most Expensive Military Drones - Gadget Review

gadgetreview.com

Shaun Key

 

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Imagine a flying machine that stays in the air for days without landing, sees through clouds, and never needs a pilot to rest. Modern military drones have completely changed how we fly – making the old rules of air combat seem as outdated as sword fighting. Some of these drones can fly 15 times higher than a commercial airplane (up to 60,000 feet!), stay airborne for over 60 hours straight, and cost less to operate than a fighter jet’s daily fuel bill. While they were built for military missions, these high-tech aircraft now do everything from tracking hurricanes to finding lost hikers.

Let’s look at 15 amazing drones that show us just how far flying technology has come – including one that can fly at nearly 400 miles per hour.

15. Dassault nEUROn

Image: Wix

Born from an ambitious European collaboration, the Dassault nEUROn stands as a milestone in multinational drone development. Through investments spanning six nations and €405 million, this revolutionary platform pushed the boundaries of stealth technology testing. Beneath its elegantly engineered flying wing design lies an internal weapons bay housing precision-guided munitions, all while maintaining an extraordinarily minimal radar signature. Beyond individual achievements, the platform’s groundbreaking multi-aircraft formation flights in 2020 laid the foundation for Europe’s next-generation combat air systems.

Image: The National Interest

Russia’s entry into advanced unmanned warfare took shape with the Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B in 2019. Rigorous testing proved the heavy drone’s exceptional capabilities, achieving flight times exceeding 4,000 kilometers while managing a substantial 2,000 kg of internal weapons load. Drawing on decades of stealth research, its radar-absorbent materials and meticulously crafted flying wing architecture deliver remarkable stealth characteristics. In a decisive demonstration of its potential, successful integration with Su-57 fighters in 2021 revolutionized Russia’s approach to combined manned-unmanned air combat tactics.

13. MQ-1C Gray Eagle

Image: Wikipedia

Since its 2009 introduction, the MQ-1C Gray Eagle has redefined battlefield intelligence gathering. Building on years of combat drone development, this sophisticated platform delivers persistent surveillance and strike capabilities at medium altitude. Engineered for endurance, it combines 27-hour flight endurance with a versatile payload capacity of 488 pounds, fundamentally transforming reconnaissance operations. Drawing from extensive combat experience, its operational success in Syria since 2017 has revolutionized U.S. Army tactical intelligence capabilities at the brigade level.

Image: DVIDS

When cost-effectiveness met combat capability, the XQ-58A Valkyrie emerged in 2019 to rewrite the economics of unmanned warfare. Through innovative design approaches, engineers developed this “loyal wingman” to achieve speeds of Mach 0.85 while maintaining remarkably low operational costs of $3 million per unit. Leveraging advanced digital engineering principles, the platform seamlessly integrates with F-35 and F-22 aircraft in complex operations. Building on this foundation, the 2023 weapons trials opened new frontiers in distributed team operations with fifth-generation fighters.

11. CH-5 Rainbow

Image: World Defence News

In a leap forward for Chinese aerospace, the CH-5 Rainbow entered service in 2017 with unprecedented endurance capabilities. Sophisticated propulsion systems power its 60-hour continuous operations, while robust design enables carriage of 1,000 kg of mission equipment. Utilizing state-of-the-art encrypted satellite arrays, operators maintain precise control at altitudes reaching 30,000 feet. Through systematic deployment across 12 countries by 2022, the platform established China’s position as a dominant force in military drone exports.

Image: Wikipedia

Drawing on decades of battlefield experience, Israeli engineers unveiled the Hermes 900 in 2012 as a masterclass in tactical unmanned systems. Incorporating cutting-edge multi-spectral sensors, the platform excels in gathering critical intelligence across contested airspace. A strategic $15 million investment yielded unprecedented mission flexibility through modular architecture. Beyond military applications, its pivotal role in coordinating the 2018 California wildfire response transformed global emergency management protocols.

9. II B. Iton Drone

Image: Breaking Defense

The Heron TP’s 2010 debut marked a turning point in autonomous aerial intelligence. By integrating sophisticated AI algorithms, the platform seamlessly extends operations across 2,000 kilometer ranges, while its robust airframe supports a 5,300 kg maximum takeoff weight for mission flexibility. Enhanced sensor arrays enable precise target recognition in complex environments. Through intensive Mediterranean deployments, its 2020 operations achieved a transformative 40% increase in European maritime surveillance coverage.

Image: AF.mil

The 2007 introduction of the MQ-9 Reaper fundamentally altered the landscape of aerial combat operations. At $32 million per unit, each platform delivers unprecedented multi-role capabilities through sophisticated sensor integration. Where earlier drones struggled with endurance, the Reaper maintains 30-hour mission durations across diverse combat scenarios. Pushing operational boundaries further, its 2023 Arctic Circle patrols extended NATO’s surveillance reach beyond the 78th parallel, securing critical security gaps.

7. Tengden TB001

Image: China Defence

Emerging from China’s drive for aerospace innovation, the twin-engine TB001 entered service in 2021 as a breakthrough in long-endurance operations. Pushing traditional limits, the platform sustains 35-hour flight times while managing 1,200 kg of sophisticated mission systems. Through careful integration of advanced composites, engineers achieved reduced radar signatures without compromising structural integrity. In a significant milestone, its 2023 anti-submarine warfare trials marked China’s first successful deployment of AI-driven undersea detection from an unmanned platform.

Image: The Aviationist

The BAMS-D program revolutionized maritime surveillance upon its 2009 introduction. Building on proven radar technology, enhanced systems track multiple vessels while sustaining 30-hour persistent coverage over vast ocean areas. A decade of refinements led to 2019’s all-weather capabilities, integrating advanced sensor arrays for comprehensive maritime awareness. Through relentless intelligence gathering, the platform facilitated a record-breaking $2.3 billion in maritime contraband seizures during 2022.

5. MQ-4C Triton Drone

Image: Royal Australian Air Force

The 2018 deployment of the MQ-4C Triton ushered in a new era of maritime domain awareness. Backed by a $180 million per unit investment, each platform extends coverage across an astounding 2.7 million square miles per mission. Where conventional aircraft falter, robust de-icing systems and lightning protection ensure continuous operations in the harshest maritime conditions. Through seamless integration with Indo-Pacific naval forces in 2023, the platform slashed maritime response times by 60% across the strategic South China Sea region.

Image: Northrop Grumman

Since its 2001 inception, the RQ-4 Global Hawk has continually redefined high-altitude surveillance capabilities. Operating effortlessly at 60,000 feet, the platform delivers crystal-clear intelligence across vast geographic expanses. Advanced multi-spectral imaging systems ensure uninterrupted reconnaissance in any weather condition. During the devastating 2023 Turkish earthquake, its real-time imagery proved instrumental, guiding rescue teams to 127 survivors in those critical first hours.

3. MQ-25 Stingray Drone

Image: CNN

The 2021 arrival of the MQ-25 Stingray marked a revolutionary leap in naval aviation capabilities. Supported by $805 million in development funding, the platform efficiently transfers 15,000 pounds of fuel during precision aerial maneuvers. Where traditional operations required extensive human oversight, digital systems now manage carrier deck operations autonomously. Pushing boundaries further, its groundbreaking autonomous night refueling operations in 2023 extended carrier wing combat radius by 300 nautical miles. Enjoying this roundup? Then maybe you might like our review of the top 10 fastest fighter jets.

Image: Wikipedia

British innovation took flight in 2013 with the Taranis’s maiden voyage. Through a focused £185 million investment, engineers crafted sophisticated low-observable systems for diverse mission profiles. Combining radar-absorbing materials with ingeniously designed serpentine air intakes, the platform achieves remarkable electromagnetic stealth characteristics. In a watershed moment, its successful penetration of advanced air defense networks in 2023 directly shaped Britain’s ambitious $10 billion Future Combat Air System design.

1. Northrop Grumman X-47B Drone

Image: tvd.im

The X-47B’s historic 2013 carrier landing heralded a new chapter in naval aviation history. Driven by $813 million in strategic investment, the program pioneered autonomous carrier operations and aerial refueling capabilities. Where human pilots once ruled, precision navigation systems now execute perfect carrier landings in challenging conditions. Beyond its immediate achievements, the platform’s revolutionary autonomous carrier operations catalyzed the U.S. Navy’s unmanned aviation program, spawning six new drone classes by 2024.