The Tactien Group Launches CAST™ for Independent Counter-Drone System Evaluations

NJ, UNITED STATES, October 19, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Tactien Group, an independent aviation advisory firm focused on critical infrastructure, has launched a groundbreaking platform called CAST™ (Counter-UXS Assessment & System Testing). This new software tool aims to provide a standardized and objective method for evaluating counter-drone systems, ensuring that end-users can make informed procurement decisions based on real-world performance.

CAST™ operates as an independent test and scoring platform, analyzing counter-UAS (counter-undetected aircraft systems) detections against telemetry data from red-team flights. The platform measures performance across various key performance indicators (KPIs), including probability of detection, track continuity, track loss, track accuracy, classification accuracy, Remote ID match, time to classification, multiple-target handling, and false positives. Each vendor's detection feed is scored against these criteria, providing a transparent and consistent evaluation process.

The Tactien advisory team uses CAST to conduct comprehensive evaluations, covering site surveys, red-team flight planning, test card development, flight operations, detection analysis, and performance reporting. This process ensures consistency across different sites and vendors, providing end-users with a reliable assessment of which counter-UAS system will perform best in their specific environment.

CAST™ is currently in use for counter-UAS testing and is scheduled for integration with ground, maritime, and underwater unmanned systems in the first quarter of 2027. The platform is already supporting Tactien's counter-UAS verification and validation work for critical infrastructure clients, offering a robust solution for organizations looking to enhance their security against drone threats.

The Tactien Group, with a team of 170+ years of combined experience and 165,000+ missions commanded, is well-positioned to deliver these evaluations. Founder Nate Ernst has over 16 years of experience in aviation technology for linear infrastructure. CAST™ is currently patent pending, with The Tactien Group, LLC, holding the rights. The platform is designed to provide a measured answer on which detection system works at a customer's site(s), with every vendor held to the same scoring standard.

The Tactien Group is an independent aviation advisory firm focused on critical infrastructure and high-value assets. It helps electric utilities, oil and gas operators, water authorities, data center operators, and other infrastructure owners design, build, and scale UAS programs, and supports counter-UAS program development.

CAST™ is currently being used by Tactien to support its clients, ensuring that the evaluation process is consistent and unbiased. The platform's ability to re-score raw test data under multiple operational standards or an operator's own criteria makes it a valuable tool for end-users. By providing a transparent and objective evaluation, CAST™ helps organizations make informed decisions about their counter-UAS systems, ensuring that they are well-prepared to address the unique challenges of their specific environments.

The Tactien Group's commitment to independent and objective evaluations is evident in the development and use of CAST™. With its extensive experience and expertise, the company is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and reliable evaluations of counter-UAS systems. As the platform continues to evolve, it will support the integration of ground, maritime, and underwater unmanned systems, further expanding its capabilities and utility.

CAST™ is currently patent pending, with The Tactien Group, LLC, holding the rights. The platform is designed to provide a measured answer on which detection system works at a customer's site(s), with every vendor held to the same scoring standard.