Revector is a leading developer of cell site simulators and mobile phone surveillance solutions for security, intelligence and public safety applications.
In this Q&A, Revector explores how the company integrates mobile signal detection and SIGINT technology into unmanned systems, overcoming RF challenges on UAVs, supporting defense, SAR, and counter-UAS operations, and driving innovation through global partnerships and custom hardware.
1. What challenges do unmanned and autonomous platforms face in mobile signal detection, and how does Revector’s technology help overcome them?
Placing our technology on a UAV platform has not come without it’s challenges, RF next to materials that are commonly used for UAVs but bad for RF has caused a difficult development period. However, we were the first to successfully deploy such as system, and even today our competitors ask how we managed it. The secret is the custom components we have designed and manufactured that work in a different way to off the shelf solutions. All components are designed and manufactured in the UK, making Revector equipment fully FVEY compliant.
UAVs allows us to get much greater distances for detection, traditionally on the ground we can easily capture devices at a few kilometres, however testing has demonstrated us at 6000ft catching devices 30km away. In the air the interference or obstructions caused by trees, buildings etc has little effect on the unit.
Obviously there are different platforms available and each can work with our system to perform well for each mission. Fixed wings allow us to deploy our equipment further away in more hostiles environments, and obtain higher altitudes to detect further. Whereas multi rotors can be used in conjunction with powered tether to deploy for long periods of time continuously monitoring devices in an area.
2. Can you share any examples of how Revector’s solutions have been deployed in real-world unmanned operations, for instance, border security or counter-UAS missions?
We have various systems out in the military and intelligence world which we cannot disclose, however we do have several systems being used for Search and Rescue to cover large areas of dense foliage to assist with finding people quicker and more efficiently.
The software allows us to broadcast SMS messages to all devices caught or just specific people, so in areas of no mobile coverage we can still have a conversation, or even initiate a voice call with the MISPER. Used by teams to help understand their medical situation, but also asking for more info on location.
3. What are the key benefits of integrating Revector’s signal intelligence (SIGINT) technology into unmanned systems in these real-world operations, particularly for defense and law enforcement applications?
The benefits are plentiful, quick deployment, easy to use software, accurate results. It all boils down to the ability to locate devices or even understanding what devices are in a particular area to build up an accurate intelligence picture before deciding the appropriate action. Our systems are all small in footprint and weight, but high in power, meaning you are not compromising power by utilising a smaller easily deployable and portable system. Our systems also work on worldwide frequencies, so dedicated equipment is not required for specific countries.
4. In what ways does Revector ensure the accuracy and reliability of its mobile signal detection solutions in complex and dynamic environments, such as active conflict zones or adverse weather conditions?
Lots of testing! We test continuously in different environments, updating components and software code to perform to the best of its ability. We also work closely with our clients to understand their needs and build on their feedback.
5. How do you see the demand for mobile signal intelligence evolving in the unmanned systems industry, and what innovations is Revector working on to stay ahead?
Revector are continuously developing and innovating, we understand that detection of all RF signals is important and have heavily invested time and effort in other products including WiFi detection and Bluetooth Detection that also includes various methods of attack, amongst others. It’s important to keep ahead of the game, keeping ourselves at the top of the market with high quality hardware and software.
6. What are Revector’s priorities for expanding its technology offerings in the unmanned sector to meet its evolving demands, and can you share details of any collaborations you are pursuing or that have been formed recently?
We are constantly improving our capabilities on UAV platforms, we have recently created a premium antenna setup that is going to greatly assist with quantity and distance of antennas. This same setup has also been directly placed into the wing of a fixed wing aircraft. We have successfully integrated with a number of large and small UAV companies around the world. With our 20th successful integration just occurring in Greece. We will also be announcing our partnership soon with a well known UK UAV supplier, offering an all in one UK SIGINT UAV package.
We continue to grow from strength to strength and this will be showcased in coming months from our new software launches and partnerships that will be announced.
Thank you for your time, it’s always great to talk to Revector and we look forward to providing more coverage on your IMSI and WIFI catcher devices for drones.
