Bottom Line
This development demonstrates a trend in military technology toward maximizing the utility of existing equipment. By integrating advanced sensing and disruption capabilities via a software update, L3Harris aims to provide frontline operators with immediate counter-UAS measures using communications gear they already carry.
Article Summary
L3Harris Technologies announced Wraith Shield, a new capability that transforms standard tactical radio systems into AI-enabled sensors. This software upgrade allows military personnel to detect, classify, and disrupt small unmanned aerial systems (drones) using the communications equipment they are already equipped with.
The system was developed through a partnership between L3Harris and DataShapes AI, which specializes in edge-native AI for electromagnetic spectrum awareness. Wraith Shield processes radio frequency data collected by fielded radios to provide real-time situational awareness of the drone threat environment directly on a soldier’s end-user device.
According to Chris Aebli, President of Mission Critical Communications at L3Harris, the upgrade enables operators to disrupt hostile drone signals directly from their radios. He stated that personnel can neutralize attritable unmanned systems with the press of a button, causing them to drop from the sky.
The technology builds upon the Wraith waveform, which L3Harris developed in the early 2020s as a wideband, fast frequency-hopping tactical waveform designed for communications integrity against electronic warfare. The initial deployment platform is the RF-9820S Compact Team Radio (AN/PRC-171), with broader availability planned for later in 2026.
Key Points
- Wraith Shield is a software upgrade, not a hardware replacement, enabling existing tactical radios to gain counter-drone capabilities.
- The system uses AI and radio frequency data to detect and classify small unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
- L3Harris estimates that over 100,000 Wraith-capable tactical radios are already fielded by U. S., NATO, Five Eyes, and allied militaries.
- Initial deployment platforms include the RF-9820S Compact Team Radio, with future availability planned for models like the AN/PRC-158C.
Why It Matters
This announcement highlights a strategic focus on operational efficiency by integrating advanced sensing and disruption capabilities into existing military hardware. By utilizing software updates rather than requiring specialized new equipment, L3Harris aims to provide frontline operators with immediate counter-UAS measures while minimizing additional weight or complex training requirements for separate systems.
Related Topics
Reader Note
The original announcement detailing the technical specifications of Wraith Shield is available at The Defence Blog.