PROTEAS and Squarehead
In an increasingly complex and fast-evolving security landscape, European Special Operations Forces (SOF) must be equipped with highly adaptable and integrated command structures to stay tactically competitive. The PROTEAS project addresses this urgent need by developing the first-of-its-kind modular and scalable command post tailored for SOF missions. At Squarehead Technology, we are proud to be part of this effort. Our role reflects a broader vision: helping to secure the future of European defense by pioneering integrated, interoperable solutions that strengthen security across the continent.
WHAT IS PROTEAS?
The PROTEAS project is a European initiative focused on developing a command post for Special Operations Forces (SOF) to improve management of command and control. The project is funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF) and brings together 14 partners and one affiliated entity from seven countries. It aims to create a modular, scalable, and highly adaptable command and control system tailored for EU-led Special Operations Forces (SOF) missions.
The project officially launched in 2023 and is set to conclude in 2026, providing three years to prototype and implement the solutions. At its core, PROTEAS is designed to address modern battlefield challenges, among others, by integrating multi-domain command and control (C2) systems, advanced perimeter security solutions, and a portable C2 platform for field operations.
The PROTEAS goal:
"The ultimate goal of PROTEAS project is to create THE FIRST OF ITS KIND Special Operations Forces Command Post for Command and Control (SOFCP) to support EU-led SOF Small Joint Operations (SJO) and in compliance with European Union (EU) standards and with the EU-Members and Norway specific operational needs."
This effort is crucial for modernizing the command structures of special operations, ensuring rapid response capabilities, and enhancing interoperability among European forces.
SQUAREHEAD’S CONTRIBUTION
As a specialist in advanced acoustic intelligence, Squarehead Technology plays a key role in PROTEAS by enhancing perimeter security and providing situational awareness through its detection system Discovair G2. Our contribution focuses on integrating passive acoustic detection and classification technology into the SOFCP security infrastructure, ensuring that special operations forces (SOF) can rely on real-time intelligence in challenging environments.
An important component of PROTEAS is the perimeter security system of the command post, which combines multiple passive sensors to detect and classify potential threats. Squarehead’s Discovair acoustic array will be an integral part of this system, designed to detect close-range threats both on the ground and in the air.
To ensure seamless integration, the project entails adapting Discovair for deployment in fixed locations, semi-mobile configurations, and manned or unmanned assets such as robotic platforms. A specific area of research involves mounting our acoustic system onto robotic ground vehicles (UGVs), turning them into mobile acoustic sensors capable of extending perimeter security beyond static installations. This enhances the flexibility and reach of the security architecture, allowing for adaptive surveillance in dynamic environments.
Beyond perimeter security, Squarehead’s expertise contributes to the command and control (C2) capabilities of PROTEAS. The multi-domain C2 architecture developed within the project is built to support intelligence gathering from multiple sources. Our technology ensures that acoustic detection data is efficiently processed and integrated within the tactical software used by SOF-teams, allowing operators to visualize and respond to potential threats.
WHY THIS PROJECT MATTERS
The security landscape in Europe and beyond is constantly evolving, with new threats emerging across multiple domains. To maintain tactical competitiveness, special operations forces require highly adaptable and integrated command structures that enable rapid decision-making and real-time intelligence sharing.
Projects like PROTEAS drive technological innovation and collaboration among European defense partners. Through such partnerships, countries can develop interoperable solutions that enhance collective security and reduce dependency on external defense technologies. PROTEAS is not just about technological advancement—it’s about building a stronger, more coordinated European defense.
At Squarehead Technology, we are proud to be pioneering acoustic intelligence solutions that contribute to this vision. Our role in PROTEAS underscores our commitment to enhancing security, protecting critical assets, and supporting European defense initiatives. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with PROTEAS partners and delivering cutting-edge solutions that help secure the future of European defense.
