The CSIR has developed a surveillance system that detects and localises moving targets, over large areas and identifies them as humans or animals.

The Kruger National Park houses one quarter of the world’s rhino population and has often become the target of poaching syndicates. The CSIR’s surveillance solution was optimised to operate in the undulating, bush savannah environment, in all weather conditions, day and night, without disturbance. The system is mobile and can be moved between different locations and can operate in a self-sustaining mode for months on end. Findings from its deployment in the Kruger National Park indicated that the high-resolution images acquired are of a quality that is suitable for use in the prosecution of captured would-be poachers.

The system has undergone several upgrades to ensure the design is optimal for the changing environment. Researchers have also developed a new-generation staring array radar. This is capable of providing sufficient information to perform radar-based target classification that would not require an optical system for classification. It also enables autonomous operation, reducing operational cost and the need for operators.

The surveillance system has been used successfully in counter poaching operations. It is the ideal security solution for surveillance of farms, large commercial sites, land and marine border zones.

Technology enhancement to reduce the system’s weight and improve its imagery is ongoing.