DronAR supports initial and recurrent training
DronAR from YouTrain is an XR-based training platform for drone operators. XR stands for Extended Reality and encompasses virtual and augmented reality. It enables training scenarios to be reproduced in a simulated environment.
The platform supports preparation through foundational knowledge, guided training through learning and assessment modes, and regular practice to maintain proficiency. Simulated weather conditions allow operators to train under different conditions and practise procedures repeatedly.
Learn more about DronAR at YouTrain
AirSpot collects observations from the public
AirSpot is intended to make it easy for members of the public to report drones and unidentified flying objects. The concept combines sighting reports with open flight data to help put observations into context.
A report confirms neither that an object is actually a drone nor that it poses a threat. Relevant factors in an assessment include the location, time and available details of the observation.
AirSpot is scheduled to launch in October 2026.
Learn more about AirSpot at CIVITAS Europe
CIVITAS Sentinel advances the drone situational picture
The drone situational picture in CIVITAS Sentinel is under development. It is intended to bring together AirSpot reports, information from public authorities and available sensor data, supporting analysis by public authorities.
The source, time and verification status are intended to remain visible. This makes it possible to distinguish where a piece of information originated and the extent to which it has already been checked.
Multiple reports may relate to the same event, complement one another or contradict one another. Bringing them together therefore does not replace expert assessment.
A UAS comprises more than the aircraft
UAS stands for Unmanned Aircraft System. It comprises the unmanned aircraft, its associated control element, and the links and other components required for operation.
Observing a flying object initially captures only one part of the system. It does not automatically allow conclusions to be drawn about the person controlling it, the purpose of the operation or any potential threat.
Sensors provide different perspectives
The following examples describe general technical capabilities. They do not constitute a commitment to functions or integrations already available in CIVITAS Sentinel.
- Radar can provide indications of position and movement. Detection and discrimination depend on the system and environmental conditions.
- Cameras support visual assessment. Visibility, distance and obstructions affect which features can be identified.
- RF sensing examines radio-frequency activity and can provide indications of communications links. Not every drone transmits signals that can be detected or unambiguously attributed.
- RF direction finding can determine the direction of a detected radio source. Reliable position estimation may require additional measurements or multiple receiving sites.
- Remote ID can provide broadcast identification and flight information where it is available and can be received. It does not automatically cover every flying object.
None of these perspectives answers every question on its own. What matters is which information is available, how reliable it is and how it fits together.
Verify information and make its attribution traceable
A reliable drone situational picture is built through verification and attribution. Do the time and location match? Do several reports relate to the same event? Which details can be independently corroborated?
Contradictions and uncertainties must remain visible. A lack of attribution is no more proof of a threat than a single sighting report. The observed flying object, a possible radio source and a suspected control location must be distinguished from one another.
UAV, RPAS and C-UAS describe different aspects
UAV stands for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and refers to the unmanned aircraft itself. UAS, by contrast, also includes the components needed to operate it.
RPAS stands for Remotely Piloted Aircraft System and refers to an unmanned aircraft system controlled remotely by a person.
C-UAS stands for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems and encompasses measures and systems for dealing with unwanted or threatening unmanned aircraft systems. These may include detection, tracking, identification and countermeasures. A drone situational picture does not in itself constitute a technical counter-drone capability.
Consider information gathering and analysis together
Tobias Börner, Managing Director, says “Anyone seeking a reliable drone situational picture must consider information gathering and analysis together. These are precisely the areas in which YouTrain and CIVITAS Europe bring together their respective expertise within the Vektor Group.”
About the Vektor Group
The Vektor Group is a European technology group specialising in defence, internal security and training. It brings together specialist companies that develop sovereign security technology in Germany and keep it in European hands. Its portfolio encompasses the fusion and analysis of security-relevant data, digital solutions for investigative authorities and immersive XR training platforms for operational personnel.
With ORCRIST, Civitas Europe and YouTrain, the group combines technological expertise with practical experience from the Bundeswehr, NATO and military intelligence. Its aim is to strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty and support security organisations in intelligence gathering, decision-making and operational preparation.
Further information is available at www.vektorgroup.de