Cypriot company SignalGeneriX Ltd and French company Aerix Systems have signed a memorandum of understanding for the joint development of a multi-functional, dual-use drone solution, as part of the Cyprus-France Innovation and Cooperation Forum.
The signing took place at the residence of the French Ambassador to Cyprus, with the cooperation laying the groundwork for a self-funded programme of joint development, prototyping and demonstration of next-generation unmanned aerial systems.
According to the announcement, Aerix Systems is developing the AXS-S1 platform, the drone/interceptor itself, while SignalGeneriX is providing the SGX EDGE-AI technology, which forms the platform’s central processing and artificial intelligence system.
How it works
The system features two dual pneumatic net launchers using CO2. According to its technical specifications, the platform is designed to autonomously detect, classify, track and intercept hostile unmanned aircraft.
A central feature of the system is that data processing takes place onboard the drone itself, without direct reliance on external infrastructure. The SGX EDGE-AI computer is based on the NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX, an extremely small but powerful processor, and delivers 100 TOPS of processing power, equivalent to 100 trillion mathematical operations per second. It processes three image streams simultaneously: a 110-degree FHD wide-angle electro-optical camera, a 10-degree 4K electro-optical camera, and a 45-degree 1MPx thermal camera.
This triple sensor array allows the system to acquire a target, track it with precision, and operate in low-visibility conditions such as night, smoke or dust.
The platform, referred to in the announcement as the AXS-S1 SPIDER-AI, features patented omnidirectional propulsion, allowing it to maintain full attitude control even at high speeds or in strong winds. It can reach speeds of up to 200 kilometres an hour, operate in winds of up to 100 kilometres an hour, brake within 2.5 seconds, and execute turns with a one-metre radius.
Neutralising targets
To neutralise targets, the system carries two pneumatic net launchers. Each launcher deploys a capture net covering at least 12 square metres, allowing up to two engagements per mission. The launchers are reloadable in the field, and are activated automatically by the artificial intelligence system once target capture is confirmed.
The platform can be used individually or as part of a group or swarm, and supports deployment from air, land or sea. Preparation time is stated at one minute, making it suitable for rapid-response scenarios.
Potential applications
Potential applications include airports and aviation facilities, stadiums and large event venues, critical infrastructure, military installations, borders, security perimeters and tactical operations. Particular emphasis is placed on protecting runways, energy and communications facilities, government sites, military bases and high-security areas.