General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) is expanding the capabilities of its Do228 NXT multi-role aircraft with a new sensor option: the CPLS Sentinel, developed by CDA Systems, an Andorra-based technology company specializing in aerospace, communications and precision optics.
Sensor option facilitates search and rescue operations
The CPLS Sentinel is an advanced cellular geolocation system that enables rescue teams to locate missing or endangered persons with high accuracy – even in remote regions or areas where the conventional communication infrastructure has been destroyed.
Using pre-installed or newly scanned cell tower data, Sentinel creates an offline usable deployment map for the areas of operation. Once the operator has entered the ID of the target smartphone, the system acts as a secure and privacy-compliant base station that detects the smartphone’s signal without interacting with active networks or accessing personal user data.
US-Streitkräfte ordern Common Bridge Transporter bei Oshkosh
Using advanced PDOA (Phase Difference of Arrival) analysis, Sentinel determines the exact location of the phone. An intuitive graphical user interface displays directional cues, coordinates and mapping assistance to guide teams directly to the person in distress. Operators can make direct text or voice contact and export ready-to-use coordinates to external command systems to take immediate action.
Improved operational flexibility of the Do228 NXT
This makes CPLS Sentinel suitable not only for search and rescue (SAR) missions, but also for law enforcement, civil protection, maritime patrols and humanitarian missions. Sensor integration into the Do228 NXT was comparatively easy due to the design with a rectangular fuselage cross-section and numerous installation points for sensors.
The Do228 NXT combines STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) performance, reliability and flexible cabin configuration. The addition of the CPLS Sentinel to the list of possible sensor options opens up a growing number of possible applications for Do228 operators worldwide.
Here for more news about General Atomics.
