HELMA-P: FROM SECURITY FOR THE 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES TO INTEGRATION INTO THE FRENCH ARMED FORCES

HELMA-P: FROM SECURITY FOR THE 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES TO INTEGRATION INTO THE FRENCH ARMED FORCES • The HELMA-P laser weapon from CILAS was successfully deployed for anti-drone protection at the 2024 Olympics in the Paris region. • These games were proof of the exemplary coordination between the cutting-edge technologies of CILAS, and the French Air and Space Force. • The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) ordered for additional HELMA-P systems to equip the 3 French armed forces (Air, Army, Navy). During the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the HELMA-P laser system from CILAS was at the heart of airspace protection, particularly in the Île-de-France region, which was under heavy surveillance during the event. Designed to detect, identify, track and neutralise drones using laser technology, HELMA-P reinforced the anti-drone defences put in place by the French Air Force. The deployment of HELMA-P was preceded by a training and preparation phase, notably during the large-scale exercise COUBERTIN LAD 2. These training sessions, to which CILAS contributed, enabled Air Force and Space Force operators to be trained in the use of the laser system and to strengthen coordination protocols. The anti-drone system deployed for the 2024 Olympics led to the arrest of many drone pilots, mainly tourists unaware of the strict regulations in force. This mobilisation was based on a multi-layered system incorporating HELMA-P. The presence of HELMA-P in anti-drone system deployed for the 2024 Olympics helped to secure the entire area, preventing any unauthorised aerial threats. The system, integrated into this LAD system, helped to maintain a safe environment for the competitions, spectators and athletes. As proof of the relevance and effectiveness of HELMA-P in the fight against unmanned aerial vehicles, the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) ordered for additional HELMA-P systems to equip the 3 forces.