Fencepost™ Sensor Tackles Low-Signature Threats in Complex Terrain

SAN DIEGO - Oct. 14, 2025 -General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) is showcasing its Fencepost™ acoustic surveillance system at the Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exposition (AUSA 2025), following successful field demonstrations during the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Technology Readiness Experimentation 2025 (T-REX 25) exercise. The system demonstrated its ability to detect low-signature aerial threats in complex terrain and congested radio frequency environments, underscoring its value for passive situational awareness in complex operational environments.

T-REX 25 was a defense experimentation event designed to accelerate the evaluation and transition of emerging technologies throughlive, scenario-based demonstrations. GA-EMS participated in the exercise in early August, showcasing Fencepost's capabilities in operationally relevant environments and engaging directly with military stakeholders. During the exercise, Fencepost passively detected and tracked low-signature aerial threats-including Group 1-3 unmanned aerial systems and rotary-wing aircraft-across complex terrain and congested radio frequency conditions. The system's modular architecture, rapid deployability and integration with tactical decision aids were key focus areas throughout the experimentation. "These trials confirm Fencepost's ability to deliver persistent, passive situational awareness where radar and optical systems face limitations," said Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. "We're focused on delivering deployable technologies that close operational gaps and adapt to the realities of modern conflict." Fencepost's performance reflects a growing interest in passive sensor technologies that support multi-domain operations and layered defense strategies. Its capabilities align with broader efforts to accelerate the development and transition of autonomous systems to address urgent and emerging threats.

Key capabilities include:

• Scalable Deployment: Flexible node placement along a customizable perimeter, tailored to mission-specific coverageand objectives
• Operational Range: Supports Flexible deployment with detection capabilities up to 5-7 km for Group 3 targets
• Wide Frequency Processing: Handles signals in the 100-4000 Hz range
• Smart Filtering: Continuous detection algorithm to reduce false alarms
• Directional Tracking: Estimates signal source via Direction of Arrival (DoA) tracking
• Noise Suppression: Adaptive cancellation of loud, stationary noise sources
• Advanced Signal Classification: Uses eigenvector-based feature extraction for prioritization (AI integration planned)
• Seamless Integration: Plug-and-play compatibility with existing tactical decision aids

Fencepost's low-cost, low-signature design supports expeditionary operations and rapid response missions. Attendees can learn more about its capabilities and speak directly with GA-EMS at Booth #2725 during AUSA 2025.

About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) develops innovative technologies to create breakthrough solutions supporting operational environments from undersea to space. From electromagnetic, power generation and energy storage systems and space systems and satellites, to hypersonic, missile defense, and laser weapon systems, GA-EMS offers an expanding portfolio of capabilities for defense, government, and national security customers. GA-EMS also provides commercial products and services targeting hazardous waste remediation, oil and gas, and nuclear energy industries.

For further information, visit www.ga.com/ems

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