Echodyne has been selected as the radar supplier for Zone 5 Technologies’ Paladin Low Collateral Effects Interceptor (LCEI), an autonomous counter-drone system designed to detect, track and neutralise hostile unmanned aircraft. The decision integrates Echodyne’s EchoFlight and EchoShield radars into Paladin, which is the first interceptor of its kind to be listed on the U.S. Department of Defense’s Blue UAS Cleared List.
Zone 5, a California-based UAS and technology development company, chose the EchoFlight airborne radar to meet the system’s requirement for accurate airspace awareness with minimal size, weight and power. The radar provides Paladin with precision tracking data needed to identify and intercept small, fast-moving drones. The system’s modular payload and autonomous battle-management software support low-collateral-risk engagements, positioning it for military and security applications where traditional counter-UAS methods may not be appropriate.
For ground-based detection, Zone 5 is also incorporating Echodyne’s EchoShield radar. The medium-range ground radar is designed to track low-altitude UAS and provide situational-awareness inputs to the Paladin system as it navigates toward threats.
Zone 5’s Director of Multi-Mission Systems, Kyle Woo, said the accelerating pace of adversary drone development demands counter-UAS technologies capable of adapting quickly. He said Echodyne’s radar performance, reliability and ability to support evolving mission profiles were key factors in the company’s selection.
Echodyne CEO Eben Frankenberg said the partnership aims to enhance mission outcomes and improve operator safety in environments where small drones present a growing challenge. He said integrating airborne and ground radars with autonomous intercept technologies is increasingly critical as unmanned threats become more sophisticated.
The collaboration comes amid rising global demand for counter-drone systems, particularly those capable of precise engagements in environments where collateral damage must be minimised.
