French AI Radar Gives Ukrainian Drones Cloud-Piercing Vision
SAHARA is an autonomous UAV-borne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system designed for situational awareness on and off the battlefield. It detects camouflaged positions and equipment, weapons storage. It delivers reliable intelligence data in inclement weather and during night-time operations.
Cloudy skies may soon be no obstacle for Ukrainian drones, as French firm Harmattan AI is equipping Kyiv’s systems with “new eyes” capable of seeing through fog and darkness.
The “Sahara” is a lightweight synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) designed to spot camouflaged positions and hidden enemy equipment from a distance.
Weighing under 3.5 kilograms (8 pounds) and drawing just 65 watts of power, it captures high-resolution imagery and refines it onboard in near-real time, ensuring reliable performance even in contested or adverse conditions.
From up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away, the radar can deliver 1.2-meter (4-foot) ground resolution, giving Ukrainian forces a detailed view of the battlefield.
According to Harmattan AI, Sahara is built as a rapidly deployable system that can operate around the clock to deliver enhanced situational awareness to forces whenever needed.
Seeing Through Cover
SAR technology uses microwave radiation to penetrate clouds and darkness, generating detailed images of the terrain in any weather. Its side-looking design allows drones to collect critical data without flying directly over intended target sites.
With AI onboard, processed information can be relayed to operators within minutes, helping commanders act quickly under time-sensitive conditions. While it is not yet confirmed which drones will carry Sahara, Harmattan AI previously announced a partnership with Ukrainian firm Skyeton.
The deal involves integrating sensor solutions into the Raybird drones, which have collectively logged over 350,000 combat flight hours.
Source: NextGenDefense
