Atolla Tech

The rapid advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technology have led to an increasing defense and security threat. Both state and non-state actors are leveraging commercially available systems, capitalizing on the miniaturization and autonomy of these devices. In defense applications, expensive standalone fixed-wing systems can be complemented by modified quadrotor and fixed-wing UAS assembled from commercial components. This expands the use of drones to squad-level operations and special forces missions in artillery targeting, anti-armor, and anti-ship capacities. More sophisticated adversaries may employ swarms of diverse UAS types to conduct complex operations. Such swarms can overwhelm surface-to-air missile (SAM) defenses, exposing these systems to targeted follow-up attacks. Swarms also enable intra-drone communication, reducing the impact of jamming and allowing for multi-vehicle kill systems.
The miniaturization and affordability of UAS components also empower bad actors in urban environments. UAS can be employed for espionage with a low risk of detection, drug trafficking across borders, or even hacking via drone-delivered equipment. Terrorist groups have also utilized retrofitted civilian drones. The use of commercial UAS allows malicious actors to disguise their intent, complicating counter-UAS (C-UAS) efforts. The inability to differentiate between threat and non-threat is exacerbated by the current high cost of interception.

Selected for NSIN Propel Boston cohort (5% acceptance ratio). Previously selected for AF MassChallenge and AF STTR Phase I.