German drones for Ukraine to receive "express updates" directly on the battlefield
Kyiv • UNN
STARK and IBM have created a system for rapid drone software updates in combat zones. The technology allows drones to be adapted for specific missions.
The German company STARK, together with IBM Germany, presented the STARK Continuum powered by IBM system, which allows for the rapid updating of drone software directly in the combat zone. This was reported by Defense Express with reference to hartpunkt, according to UNN.
Details
The system is designed for the secure installation of new software versions on STARK drones, including loitering munitions and Virtus drones, which are already in use in Ukraine.
The solution avoids the risk of malware infection via external media and effectively provides "express delivery" of updates to each individual drone.
Drone updates can be adapted for specific missions
According to Defense Express, the new system operates via the Bundeswehr's IT network, and updates become available only after being uploaded to German military servers. This currently creates limitations regarding the use of the technology outside of Germany, so it is unknown whether it can be fully integrated in Ukraine.
However, experts note that such technology can significantly increase the efficiency of the combat use of drones. Operators will be able to install specific software for a particular mission literally before launching the drone.
In addition, the system allows for the updating of drones that have been in storage for a long time. At the same time, Defense Express points out that older drones may require not only software but also hardware modernization.