High Lander and Thirdeye Introduce Ground-Based Detect and Avoid Technology in Field Operations
High Lander and Thirdeye Systems Launch BVLOS Drone Operations Trial
Israeli UTM developer High Lander has partnered with Thirdeye Systems to integrate the MeduzaX optical radar into its Vega platform. This collaboration aims to facilitate a multi-aircraft trial focused on enhancing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations.
On July 13, 2026, the two companies announced the initiation of a joint field program that will deploy a ground-based detect and avoid capability. The trial is intended to transition BVLOS drone flights from individual approvals to routine operations at scale.
Importance of Ground-Based Detect and Avoid Systems
The current airspace regulations require visual flight rules, which depend on pilots being able to see one another. This reliance on visual observation complicates the approval of BVLOS drone flights, as uncrewed aircraft lack onboard pilots. A ground-based detect and avoid system offers a solution by providing a reliable method for monitoring air traffic and ensuring safe separation between aircraft.
The ongoing trial is assessing Thirdeye’s autonomous optical system as a potential alternative to human observers, exploring its integration within a broader operational framework.
Details of the Field Trial
The trial involves drones operated by Dronery and a helicopter from Brook Aviation, which conducted a series of test flights. These flights were designed to evaluate the system’s detection capabilities against those of a ground observer under various challenging conditions, including:
- Aircraft flying above and below the horizon
- Targets against open sky and varied terrain
- Approaches from the direction of the sun
- Different lighting conditions
A controlled approach scenario was also tested to determine if the system could identify potential conflicts in a timely manner. The companies emphasize that the long-term goal is to validate how real-time optical tracking data can be effectively integrated into a centralized traffic management system.
Advancements in Optical Detection Technology
Thirdeye’s MeduzaX passive optical radar employs edge computing to process environmental data with minimal latency. This system integrates seamlessly with High Lander’s Vega UTM platform, which consolidates inputs from various detection technologies into a unified command and control interface. The system distinguishes between authorized cooperative traffic and unauthorized aircraft, enhancing situational awareness for airspace managers.
Lior Segal, CEO of Thirdeye Systems, highlighted the significance of persistent ground-based observation in improving lower-airspace awareness, particularly concerning non-cooperative traffic. The trial aims to establish a foundational understanding of how ground-based optical radar can support safe uncrewed flight paths and integrated traffic management.
Future Directions
High Lander and Thirdeye plan to continue evaluating the system under various conditions and use cases. This trial reflects a broader industry trend toward establishing permanent infrastructure that enables routine autonomous flight, moving away from reliance on case-by-case exemptions. High Lander, founded in 2018, is also involved in drone delivery initiatives in Brazil and Thailand and oversees Israel’s nationwide UTM with its Vega platform. Thirdeye’s MeduzaX system is currently operational with the Israeli Defense Forces.