We are thrilled to announce the official start of the OPERANT project, a European Defence Fund (EDF) initiative aimed at developing innovative mobile observation and evaluation systems. The project launched with a remote kick-off meeting in early May, followed by a face-to-face gathering in Bad Reichenhall, Germany, on 21–22 May, hosted by Project Coordinator Zippermast GmbH.
The in-person meeting began with a company visit to Zippermast’s facilities, offering partners valuable insights into the coordinator’s capabilities. The evening concluded with a relaxed social dinner, allowing participants to connect on a personal level and strengthen the collaborative spirit.
The second day focused on the formal launch of project activities. After a warm welcome and short partner introductions, the group dove into the core of the project: the Work Package kick-offs. These sessions covered key aspects such as project coordination, system specifications, deployment strategies, sensor and payload integration, field establishment, ground evaluation, and a feasibility study for potential rocket-based deployment. The discussions were dynamic, setting a clear direction and aligning priorities across all areas.
The meeting concluded with technical exchanges, final remarks, and the definition of next steps. Overall, the kick-off marked a strong and collaborative start to OPERANT, highlighting the team’s commitment, expertise, and enthusiasm for the challenges ahead.
Stay tuned as we begin this exciting journey!
