An interesting post from Groton-based Submarine Squadron (COMSUBRON12) Twelve last week shows submariners undergoing counter-UAS training on board Submarine Base New London.
The pictures show the backpack Drone Restricted Access Using Known Electromagnetic Warfare (DRAKE) system at play with some small quadcopters.
Marketed by Northrop Grumman since at least 2016, DRAKE is a “radio-frequency negation system that delivers a non-kinetic, selective electronic attack of Group 1 drones,” with that definition applying to UASs weighing less than 20 pounds, flying lower than 1,200 feet, and flying slower than 100 knots.
You know, the kind of drones that have been extensively seen in Ukraine dropping mortar bombs and grenades down the hatch of Russian tanks in the past couple of years.
While the Navy has been shipping DRAKEs out to the surface fleet since at least 2021 it is nice that the bubbleheads are getting some drone zapping kit for those occasional (and very vulnerable) periods when they are transiting on the surface.
This augments the M249 SAWs and laser dazzlers they have been carrying to warn off small boats and combat swimmers.
APRA HARBOR, Guam (July 8, 2021) Sailors aboard the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Springfield (SSN 761) depart Naval Base Guam after completing a regularly scheduled evolution with the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Springfield is capable of supporting various missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike warfare and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Victoria Kinney)
GROTON, Conn. (Dec. 20, 2019) Sailors assigned to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Minnesota (SSN 783) stand topside as they pull into their homeport at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn., Dec 20, 2019, following a deployment. Minnesota deployed to execute the chief of naval operation’s maritime strategy in supporting national security interests and maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Hoskins/Released)
Of course, the Belgian Air Force has recently opted for a more kinetic solution to knock down Group 1 drones.
