Estonian defense forces and private technology firms Sky Spy and Orqa successfully demonstrated a portable, drone-mounted signals intelligence (SIGINT) system during Exercise Spring Storm, an annual NATO multinational event. The system, which pairs the SkyAgent 001 sensor with an MRM2-10 FPV drone, allows frontline infantry to detect and geolocate hostile radio frequency emitters beyond the line-of-sight limitations of ground-based equipment.
How the drone-mounted SIGINT system functions
The technology addresses a persistent challenge in modern electronic warfare: terrain obstruction. Traditional ground-based sensors are often shielded from enemy signals by hills, forests, or urban infrastructure. By mounting the SkyAgent 001—an autonomous, passive radio frequency sensor—onto an Orqa MRM2-10 first-person view (FPV) drone, Estonian forces can achieve an elevated vantage point to intercept signals.
According to the developers, the system is autonomous, meaning it processes and classifies radio frequency data onboard. It identifies specific emitters, such as radar systems, jammers, or enemy drone control stations, and categorizes them without requiring a human analyst to interpret raw data in real time. Because the sensor is passive, it does not broadcast its own signal, making the drone significantly harder for adversaries to detect during operation.
Integration within NATO’s Exercise Spring Storm
The demonstration took place during Exercise Spring Storm, which hosted over 12,000 personnel from 20 NATO nations. Estonia’s 131st Infantry Battalion utilized the technology in a simulated electromagnetic attack scenario. The Force Transformation Command of the Estonian Defence Forces managed the integration, focusing on how such systems can be deployed by small infantry units rather than requiring specialized electronic warfare battalions positioned far behind the front lines.
The development of this capability is heavily influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Industry data indicates that drone-related activities currently account for approximately 85 percent of casualties in high-intensity combat. Consequently, the ability to locate enemy control stations before an attack begins has become a priority for tactical infantry units.
Why modular architecture matters for battlefield deployment
A primary design goal for the SkyAgent 001 is to avoid platform dependency. Unlike integrated systems that tie a sensor to a specific airframe, the Sky Spy hardware uses a modular interface. This allows the sensor to be moved between different drone models as technology improves or as mission requirements change.
Orqa, based in Croatia, serves as the manufacturing lead for the MRM2-10 airframe. The company positions itself as a major European Union-based drone manufacturer capable of producing both integrated systems and individual components. By pairing this platform with Sky Spy’s sensor, the companies aim to provide a “squad-portable” solution that can be deployed in minutes, offering immediate situational awareness in contested electromagnetic environments.
Key takeaways for tactical electronic warfare
* Enhanced Detection: Airborne sensors overcome physical terrain barriers that block ground-level radio frequency signals.
* Autonomous Processing: The SkyAgent 001 classifies threats onboard, providing soldiers with actionable intelligence rather than raw data.
* Passive Capability: The system listens for signals without emitting its own, reducing the risk of the drone being identified by enemy forces.
* Modular Design: The sensor is designed to be compatible with various UAV platforms, ensuring longevity as drone technology evolves.
* Frontline Utility: By shifting SIGINT capabilities to the infantry squad level, commanders can respond to electronic threats faster than traditional centralized units allow.