ERA a.s. – A Czech Pioneer in Passive Radar for Europe’s Defense

Introduction
ERA a.s. is an unassuming Czech technology firm that has quietly become a linchpin of modern European air defense. From its base in Pardubice, ERA develops “see without being seen” surveillance sensors that can silently track aircraft and missiles without emitting telltale signals. In an era when active radars risk instant detection and destruction by enemy missiles, ERA’s passive radar systems offer a stealthy alternative. Their flagship VERA-NG sensor has earned a cutting-edge reputation within NATO and even proven itself under the harsh realities of war in Ukraine[1][2]. ERA’s decades of innovation in multilateration and electronic reconnaissance have helped Europe attain a unique strategic capability once dominated by superpowers. This mid-sized company’s technology is now drawing major partners and recognition – a recent IISS report called passive surveillance “critical for air defense systems in high-intensity conflict”[3] – positioning ERA as a key contributor to Europe’s quest for greater security autonomy.