Indra’s advanced CROW counter-drone system played a key role in securing the presidential inauguration of José Antonio Kast in Valparaíso, Chile, Deployed in support of the Chilean Air Force, the system was tasked with protecting the National Congress and its high-profile attendees, including international delegations, from next-generation unmanned aerial threats in a complex operational environment.
The CROW system is a high-performance, modular solution designed for continuous 24/7 operations. Its vehicle-mounted configuration integrates advanced 3D radar, radiofrequency sensors, thermal and visible cameras, and artificial intelligence. This allows for the dynamic definition of exclusion zones and the integration of both soft-kill and hard-kill neutralization methods to counter hostile drones effectively.
This deployment adds to CROW’s proven track record in securing major international events. The system has previously safeguarded political summits like the NATO Summit in Madrid and the COP16 in Cali, Colombia. During the APEC 2024 summit in Lima, it demonstrated its effectiveness by automatically detecting 94 unauthorized drones and neutralizing 61 that approached critical protected zones. Beyond event security, CROW is actively protecting military forces in Mali, naval units in Operation Atalanta off the Horn of Africa, and critical infrastructure in Lithuania.
The operation in Chile comes at a strategic moment ahead of FIDAE 2026, Latin America’s premier aerospace and defense exhibition, scheduled for April 7-12 at Pudahuel Air Base. At the event, Indra will showcase its comprehensive portfolio, including space technologies with Hispasat, air-surveillance radars, unmanned platforms, and its robust C-UAS solutions.
Indra’s strength lies in its ability to integrate radar, radiofrequency, and electronic warfare into unified command-and-control systems for airspace and critical infrastructure protection. By offering technology-transfer schemes, Indra ensures client nations maintain sovereignty and autonomy over their defense systems. This is crucial in the rapidly evolving field of counter-drone technology, where continuous adaptability is essential. The CROW system’s inherent flexibility, backed by a leading national partner, guarantees effective protection against dynamic and evolving threats, ensuring security forces remain ahead of potential adversaries.
