U.S. defense contractor Lockheed Martin unveiled a new layered defense system aimed at detecting and destroying drone swarms.

Lockheed Martin said in a statement that the system’s open architecture design combines the latest artificial intelligence and command-and-control systems to facilitate enhanced tracking techniques that can be deployed rapidly and mesh well with other systems. 

“Our open architecture approach offers an agile, layered defense solution that accelerates outcomes relative to this dynamic threat,” Lockheed Martin’s C-UAS Director Tyler Griffin said in the statement. “This foundational demo highlights how we can deliver the mission today and sets the stage for what Lockheed Martin and our partners will deliver in weeks and months ahead.”

The company showed off the system earlier this month in what is expected to be the first of several showcases. At the demonstration, the system detected, tracked and destroyed a mix of small unmanned aircraft and drone swarms. 

Lockheed Martin says its detection systems will be vital as drone warfare becomes more common. The company holds that its open design facilitates rapid communication between command and control systems and interceptors and can manage dozens of engagements at the same time. 

“Our innovative approach and commitment to open architecture ensure that our customers can leverage the most advanced technologies, and our expertise in systems integration and experience in  providing AI-driven software to operators creates resilience against emerging threats.”

The demonstration comes as drone nations around the world continue to rely on drone warfare. Earlier this week, Ukraine unleashed its largest long-range drone strike ever into Russian territory. Ukraine launched more than 130 drones during the attack, critically damaging Russia’s seaport in Tuapse.

• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.