DroneMatrix receives DEFRA funding for MARISPEC research project

DroneMatrix has received funding from Belgium’s DEFRA to collaborate on the MARISPEC research project for the development of a versatile and resilient drone-based solution to enhance maritime security infrastructure. DEFRA is a research program cooperation between the Belgian Science PolicyOffice (BELSPO) and the Royal Higher Institute for Defence (RHID).

The €1.3 million, three-year project brings together DroneMatrix’s next-generation aerial robotics expertise with the University ofAntwerp and Xenics to address current gaps in maritime surveillancecapabilities, such as the ability of existing infrastructure to detect small vessels in challenging weather and lighting conditions. The goal is to developan autonomous drone system capable of delivering robust threat detection/identificationand continuous surveillance monitoring in maritime environments.  

The project will integrate innovative technologies,including machine learning algorithms and advanced multi-wavelength VIS, LWIR,and UV/SWIR cameras to develop an intelligent drone platform that not only detects potential threats but also carries out on-board data processing inreal-time, in order to enable early detection, rapid response, and reduced decision-making time.

DroneMatrix will serve as platform developer for the project, responsible for integrating imaging systems and ensuring the systemmeets operations requirements, such as the ability to navigate autonomously and carry out detailed inspections of remote sites without human intervention.

The focus on autonomy and cost-effectiveness positions MARISPEC as a scalable solution for broader deployment in securing critical maritime infrastructure, such as offshore energy platforms. The scope of the project will also include the exploration of integration with existing defence infrastructure to address identified gaps incapability and improve the ability of port authorities and similar organizations to secure their waterways.

“DroneMatrix and the NU Group have an extensive track recordin applying our innovative technologies and operational excellence to boost themaritime security capabilities of our partners,” Stig H. Christiansen, CEO of Nordic Unmanned, said. “In maritime and defence this includes more than 12.000 flight hours delivered by NU FlightServices in the maritime surveillance segment, and more than 500 drone systems delivered by AirRobot to Defence andSecurity customers including EMSA, Port of Antwerpand Bundeswher.

“We look forward to collaborating with the University of Antwerp and Xenics on this project to develop a new solution for the challenging maritime security threats being faced by maritime and port authoritiesin Belgium and beyond.”

DroneMatrix is a leading technology company building and implementing next-generation aerial robotics technology. Delivering end-to-endautonomous Drone-in-a-Box Solutions. Deployable to port’s in Europe within 30 days. The AI driven drones operate remotely (BVLOS) allowing smart and efficient data collection- revolutionizing security, inspection, and safety.

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