Excelerate Technology Wins ESA Contract for Robotic Security System at UK Critical Infrastructure Site

Excelerate Technology has been awarded a co-funded contract by the European Space Agency Business Applications and Space Solutions (ESA BASS) program to build and demonstrate an innovative, automated robotic response system for perimeter security at a critical UK national infrastructure site.

Co-funded by ESA BASS and supported by the UK Space Agency, Project Overview demonstrates how space-enabled assets can directly solve safety challenges, integrating satellite communications with ground and aerial robotics to protect critical national infrastructure.

When perimeter alarms trigger, the system coordinates ground robots and aerial drones to rapidly deploy and investigate incidents.

Supported by Excelerate’s resilient satellite and cellular connectivity, the system ensures uninterrupted, real-time data transmission between robotic platforms and both on-site and remote security control centres, even in challenging operational environments.

As part of the trial, Project Overview will leverage the Nokia Drone Networks “drone-in-a-box” system. Deployed in an automated, weather-resistant docking station, the aerial drone can launch autonomously to provide Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) surveillance.

By combining Nokia’s industrial drone technology with Excelerate’s hybrid satellite and cellular connectivity, the system ensures seamless video and data streaming back to security teams even if terrestrial communications are compromised.

By reaching alarm locations rapidly, the autonomous system allows security teams to identify and assess high-risk situations from a safe distance before deploying human responders.

Bethan Evans, chief operating officer at Excelerate Technology, says: “As a technology developer and systems integrator, this project brings our advanced connectivity experience together with innovative robotics to solve a real-world challenge.

“Critical national infrastructure is a global priority for protection. Working closely with infrastructure operators puts us in the best position to build and demonstrate impactful solutions utilising the right technology for the situation.”

Maria Zaretskaya, space applications officer at European Space Agency, says: “ESA Space Solutions are pleased to support Excelerate Technology in developing innovative applications which leverage Satellite Communication to improve safety of critical infrastructure.”