Project Orgins
In 2024, the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWCAD) stunned defense observers by imposing a secrecy order on our anti-reflection design, citing national security concerns that led to a temporary patent halt and a brief restriction on ARD sales to entities outside of the U.S. government. Ascend ISR Systems engaged us directly to find out more and refine our optic-concealment tech into a platform-ready system for drone applications.
Over the course of several months, Ascend ISR Systems altered our system’s core design by adapting the geometry, adding tapering for directional concealment, and optimizing the airflow dynamics for airborne platforms. The CHADD represents a new generation of aerial signature mitigation systems; designed not just to survive in contested airspace, but to disrupt a new breed of EW systems that were expected to dominate it.
Increased Environmental Rigidity
The CHADD shields optical lenses from dust, debris, and light rain, extending operational longevity and maintaining performance in unpredictable field conditions. Its architecture reduces overexposure caused by direct sunlight, even in highly reflective deployment settings.
Uncompromised Visual Performance
Many ARDs interfere with an optics field of view and image quality. The CHADD doesn’t. Its distinct design maintains complete optical clarity and zero obstruction; even during gimbal articulation. No recalibration. No drift. No compromise.
A DISRUPTIVE COUNTERMEASURE
Aperture detection systems are advanced electro-optical technologies designed to locate and neutralize optics in the field, including vehicle mounted cameras. These systems scan wide areas using the infrared spectrum, seeking out reflections and glint signatures from exposed lenses, red-dot sights, or magnified optics.
Once an optical signature is identified, onboard AI calculates the angle of return, triangulates the source, and transmits precise geogrid coordinates to an operator or autonomous targeting system. From there, the threat escalates rapidly; some systems cue artillery or loitering munitions, while others, like Russia’s Sosna-N can immediately engage with high-powered lasers capable of blinding sensors or destroying optics outright.
These systems are especially dangerous for drone teams during launch and early flight; when the aircraft is slow, exposed, and within line-of-sight. With detection ranges exceeding several kilometers, modern aperture detection platforms can identify and neutralize a drone before it ever reaches altitude. CHADD was built to stop that from happening…by breaking the detection loop before it begins.
