By SEC Technologies
In modern warfare, detecting chemical threats early and accurately is crucial for military operations’ safety and effectiveness. Integrating advanced chemical detection systems – such as SEC Technologies’ active stand-off detector Falcon 4G – into CBRN reconnaissance vehicles is a significant leap forward in battlefield readiness and survivability.
The Falcon 4G Chemical Detection System
The Falcon 4G is an advanced, long-range active stand-off chemical detector designed to detect chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) in vapor form up to six kilometers away.
The Falcon 4G can be rapidly deployed, operational and ready to detect chemical threats in no more than five minutes. It boasts long-range detection, able to detect threats at distances of up to six kilometers, and through real-time analysis can offer rapid detection, identification, and quantification that allows immediate decision-making and early warning in command-and-control software such as CBRN Analysis from BruhNew Tech, ATAK, and JWARN.
It can monitor large areas with its wide area surveillance technology, making it ideal for perimeter security and battlefield reconnaissance. Its rugged design also makes it reliable in diverse and challenging terrains while meeting MIL Standards.
Indisputable Advantages of Active Stand-Off Detection Capability
Active stand-off detection capabilities such as Falcon 4G offer certain indisputable advantages. No direct contact with CWAs is required, significantly increasing operator safety. A long range allows for early detection from a safe distance, and detecting small quantities provides early warnings of threats.
Meanwhile, identifying distant clouds of chemical agents allows for a more rapid response, and enhanced maneuvrability and protection in turn increases force maneuvrability and avoids contaminated areas.

Applications in Military Operations
Furthermore, active stand-off detection capabilities have numerous applications in military operations. This includes in reconnaissance missions, where systems such as Falcon 4G can identify and map chemical threats in contested areas.
They can also enhance security around the perimeter of bases and critical infrastructure, and optimize disaster response by quickly assessing chemical spills or attacks, and guiding response efforts for military and civilian safety.
Falcon 4G Meeting NATO CBRN Reconnaissance Requirements
CBRN zone reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain detailed information on CBRN hazards within a designated zone. It is appropriate when previous knowledge of the zone is limited and there are indications or reports of possible CBRN hazards.
A CBRN reconnaissance platoon needs to cover up to 1,500 km² within one hour, and a CBRN multifunctional platoon should cover up to 500 km². For such large areas, the use of stand-off detection is essential. With a detection radius of six kilometers and rapid detection speed, the Falcon 4G makes comprehensive area reconnaissance feasible.
Area and zone reconnaissance is one of the most important tasks prior to any unit’s deployment. Due to many reasons, such as an old chemical facility, abandoned storage, chemical attack, or residue from an attack, it can easily happen that contamination is present within the area where the unit or units will be deployed. Without proper information about the area intended for unit deployment, the risk of losing important capabilities or entire units and their personnel is high.
With point detection only, reconnaissance of the area is a time-consuming mission, and it is almost impossible to fulfill. However, thanks to long-distance detection by active stand-off detectors, it becomes feasible to perform area reconnaissance within a short time.
Integrating Falcon 4G with CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicles
Integrating Falcon 4G with CBRN reconnaissance vehicles brings several benefits, including enhanced situational awareness and early detection of threats from a safe distance, gaining critical time for protective measures. It also provides a comprehensive 360-degree chemical surveillance with no blind spots, and increased mobility and flexibility for rapid and dynamic deployment into areas of interest. This further allows for more adaptive operations and flexible tactics, adjusting positions based on threat assessments and mission needs.

Improved safety and protection are also achieved by remote monitoring from a safe distance, thereby reducing personnel risk, and automated chemical alerts to operators ensure timely responses. Falcon 4G can also be integrated with existing CBRN vehicle communication systems, providing a seamless stream of real-time data to command centers, and data fusion combines chemical detection data with other intelligence for a comprehensive situational picture.
Recently, the Falcon 4G active stand-off detector has been integrated on the Vamtac Pitón, a vehicle for CBRN defense units made by the Spanish military vehicle manufacturer Urovesa. Realized through collaboration with the General Directorate of Armament and Material and the Spanish Army, this integration enhances operational readiness and effectiveness and represents a significant advancement in the capabilities of these units.

The Vamtac Pitón, known for its robustness and versatility, pairs seamlessly with the advanced detection and surveillance capabilities of the Falcon 4G, creating a powerful tool for CBRN reconnaissance. This collaboration underscores the commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to protect personnel and ensure mission success in hazardous environments.

Enhancing Reconnaissance with UAV Integration
Aerial reconnaissance is defined as the collection of information of intelligence interest either by visual observation from the air or by using airborne sensors. The role of reconnaissance can fulfill a variety of requirements, including artillery spotting, the collection of imagery intelligence, the observation of enemy maneuvers, and the identification of possible CBRN threats.
In the realm of chemical detection, precision is crucial. To complement the long-range detection capabilities of the Falcon 4G, integrating it with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER® S-100 offers enhanced flexibility and reach, especially in complex terrains and close-proximity scenarios. This combination allows for effective detection and monitoring, even in challenging environments where traditional methods may fall short.

Aerial reconnaissance utilizing the active stand-off detector Falcon 4G provides additional important information for operational planning and conducting operations. Furthermore, it can prove valuable for first responders and police when the detector database includes appropriate agent spectra. This capability is particularly important in urban areas where CBRN threats may be present, enabling quick and accurate detection to mitigate risks to both military personnel and civilians.
Moreover, the integration of Falcon 4G with UAVs enhances situational awareness, providing real-time data that can be critical for decision-making processes. This synergy not only improves the efficiency of reconnaissance missions but also ensures a higher level of safety for all involved parties. As technology advances, the combination of aerial reconnaissance and advanced detection systems will continue to play a pivotal role in modern military and emergency response operations.
Pushing the Boundaries
Our dedication to excellence shines through in the enhancements that we have made to Falcon 4G, highlighting our commitment to pushing boundaries and improving its capabilities. The thorough testing process underscores our steadfast commitment to ensuring Falcon 4G is reliable and effective in real-world situations. As challenges arise, we innovate, leading us toward unparalleled precision in chemical detection.
Conclusion
Integrating the Falcon 4G long-range active stand-off detector with both CBRN reconnaissance vehicles and UAVs marks a significant step forward in modern military strategy and defense capabilities. By providing early warning, enhancing situational awareness, and increasing operational flexibility, Falcon 4G integration exemplifies the future of automated and technologically advanced warfare.
This advanced detection system is crucial in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military operations, making it a standout in the field of chemical detection. Its ability to rapidly detect and identify chemical threats from a distance greatly reduces the risk to personnel and allows for more informed decision-making in high-stakes environments. Additionally, the combination of this technology with UAVs offers unparalleled reach and coverage, further solidifying its essential role in contemporary defense strategies.
SEC Technologies has put together various scenarios involving the use of stand-off detection. These scenarios are available for download; simply click this link to access them. This additional resource further expands the capabilities and effectiveness of the Falcon 4G system in various operational conditions, providing comprehensive insights into its practical applications and strategic advantages.
SEC Technologies is based in Liptovský Mikuláš, Slovakia. For further information, visit www.sec-technologies.com, call us on +421 905 327966, or email at [email protected].