HAI's "Telemachus": The Radar Capable of Detecting FPV Drones in Mass Attacks Like the One in Russia

Babis Papaspyros

A few days ago, the world witnessed an unprecedented military operation (Spiderweb) deep behind Russian lines. According to Ukrainian sources, more than 117 FPV (First Person View) drones attacked Russian Air Force bases, destroying over 40 strategic bomber aircraft, primarily Tu-22M3 and Tu-95.

This operation, as revealed by Ukrainian President Zelensky, had been in preparation for over a year and a half, with particular attention given to camouflage, coordination, and innovative methods for transporting and launching the drones. The drones were secretly introduced into Russian territory inside wooden crates transported by truck.

Once deployed, the drones took off autonomously and struck their targets with devastating accuracy.

The success was twofold: strategically, as approximately 34% of Russia's available strategic cruise missile carriers were destroyed, and psychologically, as it demonstrated Ukraine's deep penetration into Russian territory.

The Technological Revolution of FPV and the Failure of Russian Anti-Drone Systems

The success of this operation was not based on numerical superiority but rather on technological innovation and the inability of Russian Electronic Warfare (EW) and anti-drone systems to detect and counter Category 1 and 2 threats, very small drones with a low Radar Cross Section (RCS) and no RF signal emission during flight.

The use of FPV drones as autonomous "kamikaze" units means they do not rely on remote control during flight, making them invisible to RF detection systems. Additionally, their launch from relatively close proximity to the airbases limited the Russian forces' reaction time.

This operational tactic using swarms of small, silent, autonomous drones exposes the shortcomings of traditional air defense systems. Conventional radars and RF emission receivers are simply inadequate against swarms of small FPVs.

The Greek Solution – HAI's "Telemachus" Radar

At this point, the Greek technological response to the micro-drone threat comes into focus: the anti-drone radar "Telemachus," developed by the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI).

"Telemachus" is one of the few radars with a proven capability to detect small autonomous FPV drones, even at very low altitudes.

It is a multi-role radar, capable of integration into comprehensive protection systems for critical infrastructures such as airports, military installations, and high value assets. Its adaptability and operation make it ideal for detecting modern swarm-type threats.

It is, therefore, crucial for Greece to further invest in the production and operational deployment of "Telemachus," as FPV drone attacks—like the recent Ukrainian operation—are becoming commonplace on battlefields. Traditional defense methods are insufficient. Electronic warfare is entering a new era.

The Strategic Importance of "Telemachus"

The Ukrainian operation highlighted the shift in military balances through asymmetric means. Despite its advanced weapon systems, Russia was completely surprised by a technically small-scale operation with enormous strategic significance. The need for new air defense doctrines and the development of appropriate sensors, like "Telemachus," is now more relevant than ever.

Greece, through HAI and other domestic innovations, has the opportunity to lead in addressing this new form of threat, provided there is a willingness to invest in such systems.

No one can rule out the possibility of a similar action against Greece, whether by state or non-state actors. It is, therefore, necessary to seriously consider such a scenario and proceed with the operational deployment of "Telemachus," a 100% Greek system, in collaboration with machine guns or anti-aircraft guns for the downing of drones and the protection of airports, military installations, and other high-value critical infrastructures.

In this new era of warfare, prevention is not just a choice it is a necessity.