The threats in the air domain continue to become more complex as new technologies come into play on the battlefield, including high-end threats such as Hypersonics as well as low-cost threats such as S-UAS. With such a challenge ahead of us, the only way forward is for us to work together and share ideas. In preparation for the Full Spectrum Air Defence Conference 2025, we have prepared a 2024 FSAD Recap highlighting the success and importance of air defence against a full spectrum of threats. In this flashback, we cover the greatest highlights of the previous conference and how we will push the envelope for 2025.

Defence iQ had the pleasure of interviewing Colonel (Retd.) David Shank. The current state of Air Defence is explored, with talks on its current state and future, the developments in Eastern Europe and the refocus on near-peer conflict, David enlightens us on trends and views of this transformation.

The objectives and value of the conference are made clear. Whether you are a veteran of Air Defence, industry, or have a passing curiosity in the world of Air Defence, this interview helps edify your foundations.

Hear valuable insights like that of Colonel (Retd.) David Shank and more at the Full Spectrum Air Defence conference in June.

An effective air defence strategy is mainly reliant on the use of radars. As a domain, radars are locked in a constant game of cat-and-mouse with other technologies and methodologies that try to negate their sensing abilities. This may pose significant challenges to understanding the current state of play. To this end, we were very fortunate to interview Thomas Withington, one of the most recognisable thought leaders in the radar and EW domain. In this interview, he shares his thoughts on the current state of the industry and technology, highlighting the most critical trends in industry and technology.

Drone swarms represent some of the most advanced threats faced on the modern battlefield. Capable of overwhelming defences and causing significant damage, forces worldwide continue to invest in new and innovative Counter UAS technologies.

Zak Kallenborn is a policy fellow at the Schar School of Policy and Government, a Research Affiliate with the Unconventional Weapons and Technology Division of the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START), and a Senior Consultant at ABS Group. He has provided consultations for offices including the Departments of State, Defense, Commerce, and Homeland Security.

An expert in UAV Swarm technology, operating at the very bleeding edge, Zak Kallenborn gives insights into the latest developments and concepts relating to the threat. From industry to technology, Zak shares his informed views. With his significant experience and specialism, the interview proves useful for end-users, legislators, and suppliers alike.

The war in Ukraine has challenged many assumptions previously held about near-peer competition, one of them being the use and effectiveness of UAS on the battlefield in a near-peer situation. In this unique interview, an undisclosed Ukrainian Airforce representative discusses and analyses the usage of UAS and C-UAS on the contemporary battlefield by both sides, painting a picture of the current state of play. This piece is a must-read for anyone with even a passing interest in full spectrum air defence as it will inform how best to approach future conflict.

NATO and Partner Nations are refocusing their efforts on Full Spectrum Air Defence (FSAD). As nations prepare for near-peer competition, forces must prepare to contest the air space from capable air forces and ballistic threats. On the other hand, the proliferation and democratisation of ballistic and UAV technologies means that even non-state actors can now project a limited but significant threat from the air. As a result of these pressures, the Air Defence Market is predicted to grow by a CAGR of 2.5% until 2029, from US$31.6 to US$35.7 billion. Investments include not only the modernisation of Air Defence platforms but the acquisition of new capabilities as well.

This report covers programmes related to:

• Air Defence
• Counter Ballistic and Hypersonic systems
• Counter Unmanned Arial Vehicles systems
  

Air defence capability gaps have become more apparent in recent years with the emergence of Unmanned Aerial Systems on the battlefield, which forced land forces’ commanders to take measures.

Major General Glenn A. Bramhall, Special Assistant to the Director Army National Guard, US National Guard understands well the need for land forces to operate freely without being constantly under threat with no means of defence. 

Current conflicts have shown the importance of full spectrum air defence. Whether the threat be hypersonics or small and cheap UAVs, the truth is that democratisation of airborne technologies have opened new avenues of attack, and the world has taken notice. As a result of this we are seeing several nations investing in air defence capabilities. This news roundup is meant to supplement the market report with some of the latest news excerpts on all things concerning platform purchases of FSAD technologies. A light document suited to give you a state-of-play of FSAD affairs.