ASOG Article of the Month | January 2025
Source | Patrick Ryan
Innovation is crucial in search and rescue, where time saves lives. CENTUM Research & Technology, led by CEO and ASOG member Héctor Estévez, has revolutionized the field with LIFESEEKER, a cell phone detection system that locates missing individuals with unmatched precision. Estévez shares the journey behind this technology and its impact on rescue operations, offering key insights for Airborne Sensor Operators.
Innovation has become necessary in modern search and rescue, where time is the most critical factor in saving lives. Few companies embody this spirit of innovation, such as CENTUM Research & Technology. At the forefront of their groundbreaking advancements is the LIFESEEKER system, a pioneering technology that uses cell phone detection to locate missing individuals with unparalleled precision.
Under the leadership of CEO Héctor Estévez, CENTUM has grown into a global leader in life-saving technology, redefining how rescue operations are conducted in some of the world's most challenging environments. With a background in technology and a vision for improving emergency response capabilities, Estévez has driven the company to create tools that empower responders and save countless lives.
In this exclusive interview, Estévez shares the journey behind LIFESEEKER, the challenges of bringing such transformative technology to life, and his vision for the future of search and rescue. From the cutting-edge innovations that power LIFESEEKER to the collaborative strategies shaping CENTUM's global impact, this conversation offers a deep dive into the intersection of technology and humanity.
Additionally, this interview article offers Airborne Sensor Operators valuable insights into the cutting-edge technology behind the LIFESEEKER system, a cell phone detection tool revolutionizing search and rescue operations. By exploring how this technology works and its applications in challenging environments, operators can better understand its potential to complement their existing tools and improve mission success rates.
About LIFESEEKER System
Can you explain how the LIFESEEKER system detects cell phones in search and rescue operations?
Lifeseeker works by turning a missing person’s mobile phone into a beacon, even if there’s no network coverage. The system uses advanced signal processing and triangulation techniques to locate the phone with high accuracy. Depending on the platform, the range can vary, from a few kilometers to up to more than 50 kilometers with our SAR XL system. This adaptability allows Lifeseeker to meet the needs of different missions, helping teams locate people faster, even in remote areas or challenging conditions.
This flexibility is especially vital in airborne operations, as it allows SAR teams to tailor their search capabilities whether operating from manned aircraft, drones, or specialized platforms.
Furthermore, Lifeseeker integrates with all main Mission Management Systems (MMS), allowing real-time data sharing for mission coordination. This seamless integration optimizes situational awareness and operational performance without depending solely on external data streams.
Additionally, Lifeseeker has STCs with the main platforms on the market, such as Airbus H125, H135, H145, Super Puma, Bell 429, Sikorsky S29, and leading drone manufacturers like DJI M300, M350, SkyRanger R70, Tekever R5, Soleon, and Commaris.
Lifeseeker empowers SAR teams with advanced technology to focus their search efforts effectively, improving response times and operational success in the most demanding environments.
Impact & Innovation
What has been the most significant impact of LIFESEEKER in search and rescue operations so far?
The most significant impact has been the successful missions our customers have achieved worldwide. Every time we read about a rescue in the news or hear from an end user about how Lifeseeker contributed to saving someone’s life, it’s incredibly rewarding. It reminds us that the work we do has a tangible, life-changing result, and there’s no greater motivation than that.
Business Strategy & Vision
How does CENTUM's approach to innovation differentiate you from competitors in the aerospace and defense sector?
Our innovation approach begins with active collaboration and feedback from end users worldwide. We listen closely to the operational challenges faced by SAR and airborne sensor teams and adapt our solutions to meet their real-world demands. Our users consistently highlight performance, adaptability, and reliability as key strengths of our technology, and these pillars are what set us apart from competitors.
This is possible because of our incredible team, who are always pushing the boundaries, finding new ways to improve, and ensuring our systems meet the highest standards. Our commitment to innovation is all about delivering products that rescue teams can trust when every second counts.
Industry Insights
What are the biggest trends or challenges in the search and rescue industry right now, and how is CENTUM addressing them?
The rapid development of 5G is a major trend, as it enables faster and more reliable communication, which is critical in rescue missions. Another key trend is the growing demand for systems that can seamlessly integrate with a variety of platforms, whether that’s different drone manufacturers or manned aircraft.
At CENTUM, we’ve prioritized making Lifeseeker highly adaptable and easy to integrate into diverse platforms, from drones to helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Performance is another critical area, rescue teams need tools they can rely on in the most challenging conditions. That’s why we’re constantly working to enhance the accuracy, range, and reliability of Lifeseeker, ensuring it delivers results where it matters most.
Personal Leadership & Company Culture
As the CEO, what are the key qualities you value in your leadership team to drive innovation and excellence at CENTUM?
For me, it’s all about having a team that’s not afraid to express themselves and think differently and take risks. Innovation only happens when you’re willing to push boundaries, but it also requires focus and listening to the people who use our products every day. I value creativity, collaboration, and a genuine passion for helping people. At CENTUM, we all share a common goal: making a real difference in people’s lives, and that’s what keeps us motivated.
As You Can See
LIFESEEKER represents a game-changing advancement for Airborne Sensor Operators, offering a powerful tool to enhance mission effectiveness and save lives in critical situations. Héctor Estévez’s insights and dedication to innovation provide valuable inspiration for the ASOG community. We sincerely thank Héctor for sharing his journey and for CENTUM's support of ASOG’s mission to empower aircrew professionals worldwide.
Comments