The Australian Army has selected Arkeus’ Hyperspectral Optical Radar (HSOR) as part of its Wide Area Airborne Surveillance (WAAS) program.
HSOR is a hyperspectral sensor for real‑time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
It is designed to detect and classify targets over wide areas, including in complex or low‑visibility environments where conventional optical and infrared systems can be limited.
HSOR will be integrated on tactical uncrewed aerial systems to enhance situational awareness and targeting capabilities.
The integration in Australia builds on recent trials with the US Department of Defense, during which HSOR has been tested under various field conditions.
Real-Time Surveillance
HSOR continuously scans land, sea, and littoral environments, operating both day and night.
Using on-board AI tools, it autonomously detects, recognizes, and tracks objects.
The system can provide information on contacts, structural composition, and topography, enabling rapid environmental assessments.
It is designed to operate in degraded visual conditions, cutting through haze, surface reflections, and other atmospheric challenges.
According to the company, HSOR provides a range up to eight times greater than standard optical sensors.
It can work autonomously even when out of the operator’s view, producing real-time ISR information across the electromagnetic spectrum.
Australia’s WAAS Program
The WAAS program is part of the Australian Army’s effort to improve its ISR capabilities.
The project is managed by the Land Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Electronic Warfare division and focuses on expanding the ability to monitor large areas using drone systems.
WAAS is connected to a broader national surveillance effort that includes radar and space monitoring systems managed by the Australian Department of Defence.
These include the Jindalee Operational Radar Network, which uses long-range radars across the country to detect aircraft and ships beyond the horizon, and the Space Surveillance System, which tracks satellites and space debris from Western Australia.
