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A counter-uncrewed aerial systems (c-UAS) prototype developed by officer-scholars from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) was tested during NATO's Bold Machina exercise in September in the Netherlands. The system, designed for passive operation using AI, integrates multiple sensors to detect small drones that pose a maritime threat.

Supported by the U.S. Department of War, the project aims to enhance military drone capabilities. The BOMA exercise involved over 150 personnel from NATO special operations forces, including representatives from Ukraine.

The NPS team collaborated with various industry partners to build the prototype, which was tested at sea aboard a Dutch Navy vessel. The system successfully detected different drone types, showcasing the integration of sensors from multiple companies. The exercise underscored the importance of rapid defense innovation, particularly in light of lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.