ERA Group Engages Subcontractors for VERA-NG

Earlier this year, ERA signed a contract with the Czech MoD to supply the latest VERA-NG passive surveillance system to the nation’s armed forces under the recently updated DPET ACR programme. Now, ERA has agreed the main subcontractors: SMAG Mobile Antenna Masts GmbH (SMAG) – highly mobile masts for the VERA-NG antennas; Tatra Trucks for the platform vehicle; and PAVELKA kontenjnery for the Main Processing Shelter.

Despite difficulties caused by the COVID-19 situation, German-Czech cooperation has moved the project forward to mutual benefit. SMAG – a subsidiary of Salzgitter Maschinenbau AG – supplies eight mobile, collapsible mast systems for VERA-NG – fully automated and ready for any rough terrain application after a very rapid installation process. This allows for maximum mobility, rapid tactical deployment of the DPET system, and minimises risks for Czech soldiers. “We recognise ERA as a high-tech company with remarkable experience in passive radar systems, especially for its unique surveillance and reconnaissance system VERA-NG. We developed together another new mobile antenna mast system, which connects both products in an optimal way,” stated Wolfgang Schnelle, SMAG Managing Director.