Areté Unveils Advanced Pushbroom LiDAR Technology at REMPUS 2025

Areté Pushbroom LiDAR Revolutionizes Littoral Surveillance

In a groundbreaking event at REMPUS 2025, Areté introduced its Pushbroom Imaging LiDAR for Littoral Surveillance (PILLS) Next Generation (PNGS), a significant leap in coastal monitoring technology. Sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, this system promises to double the capabilities of traditional systems, increasing operational performance from 60Hz to an impressive 120Hz. This improvement not only enhances data acquisition but also extends the operational versatility needed for modern surveillance requirements.

The inaugural flight of the PILLS/PNGS system utilized a Schiebel CAMCOPTER® S-100, demonstrating successful launch and recovery from a Portuguese Offshore Patrol Vessel. This event marks a pivotal step in advancing unmanned systems in littoral environments, showcasing how next-generation sensor technologies can be seamlessly integrated into existing platforms.

This debut flight also involved extensive data collection using a legacy 30Hz sensor, focusing on critical aspects such as obstacle detection—an essential feature for operations conducted in complex coastal terrains. The underlying technology that powers PILLS/PNGS is derived from the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS), emphasizing its robustness and reliability in operational scenarios.

Areté's approach to developing this new system centers on Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) reductions, making it suitable for Group 2/3 unmanned aerial systems (UAS). By optimizing these factors, Areté has managed to equip tactical platforms with advanced bathymetric and obstacle detection capabilities, meeting the demands of modern maritime operations.

"REMPUS 2025 marks a significant milestone for Areté as we unveil our cutting-edge technology that is set to redefine littoral surveillance capabilities," said a company spokesperson. "Our focus on enhancing performance while reducing system size and weight makes it a vital resource for naval operators."

The implications of the PILLS/PNGS system extend beyond just enhanced surveillance. With increased operational frequency, naval forces can now handle more missions within shorter time frames, thereby maximizing the efficiency of their maritime strategies. The advanced capabilities of Areté’s technology promise to revolutionize how data is collected and analyzed in littoral zones, paving the way for improved situational awareness in coastal environments.

As the maritime domain continues to evolve, Areté's innovations underline the ongoing importance of research and development in naval operations. With technology constantly advancing, such systems are critical in ensuring that maritime forces remain ahead of potential threats and can adapt to the changing dynamics of global security.

In conclusion, Areté’s unveiling of the Pushbroom Imaging LiDAR at REMPUS 2025 not only showcases advanced technology but also emphasizes the importance of innovation in maritime defense strategies. With the promise of improved detection capabilities and operational efficiency, this development signals a new era for littoral surveillance systems and their role in safeguarding coastal territories.