Strategic alliance for electronic warfare and counter-UAS

The two technology companies Quantum Systems and Rohde & Schwarz have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly integrate established reconnaissance and protection technologies into next-generation unmanned platforms. By combining their complementary strengths, both players aim to create robust, sovereign defense solutions that meet the dynamic demands of modern, ever-evolving operational scenarios.

A central focus of the collaboration is on unmanned aerial reconnaissance. Until now, capabilities for signal reconnaissance (Signal Intelligence, SIGINT) and electronic warfare (EW) have primarily been provided by manned platforms, such as aircraft. The cooperation between Quantum Systems and Rohde & Schwarz now seeks to embed one party’s advanced SIGINT and counter-drone (C-UAS) solutions directly into the other party’s uncrewed systems. This will give armed forces the ability to flexibly gather electromagnetic signals from the air while simultaneously benefiting from the operational advantages of autonomous systems.

Uncrewed systems for ground troops protection

In addition to the aerial dimension, the Memorandum of Understanding also addresses the protection of ground forces. Here, specialized jamming solutions from Rohde & Schwarz are to be integrated into Quantum Systems’ unmanned ground vehicles (UGV). This initiative directly addresses recent operational experiences from the war in Ukraine. The targeted shift of electronic protection and warfare measures to unmanned platforms not only increases operational flexibility but also minimizes the risk to one’s own troops on the ground.

„The requirements of modern armed forces are changing at a rapid pace. Today, the ability to transfer proven technologies quickly to new platforms and make them immediately usable is crucial. Together with Rohde & Schwarz, we are creating a German solution for unmanned signal reconnaissance in the air and electronic protection systems on the ground, thereby specifically expanding capabilities on the battlefield“, explains Martin Karkour, Chief Revenue Officer of Quantum Systems.

With this step, both companies emphasize their commitment to sustainably enhancing the operational effectiveness of defense and security forces and further expanding their technological leadership position in the global defense sector. „This MoU represents an important milestone in our mission to deliver innovative EW solutions“, says Alexander Philipp, Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Vertriebs-GmbH. „By partnering with Quantum Systems, we combine complementary strengths to create powerful, future-proof capabilities for our customers.”