What is the anti-drone system?
An anti-drone system is a set of technologies and strategies designed to detect, track, identify and neutralize unauthorized or hostile drones. These systems prevent drones from espionage, surveillance, smuggling, or attacks. Anti-drone systems are widely employed in military, government, commercial, and security applications to protect sensitive infrastructure, events, and critical assets.
Types of anti-drone system
1. Detection systems
- Radar-Based Systems: These systems use radar to detect and track drones. They emit radio waves that bounce off objects. The waves return and are analyzed to determine the drone’s speed and path.
- Radio Frequency (RF) Scanners: RF scanners detect drone signals during communication with their controllers. After analyzing these signals, they can detect the drone’s location and frequency.
- Optical and Infrared Cameras: These systems use high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging to identify and track drones. Optical cameras work well in clear conditions. Infrared cameras detect heat, making them useful at night or in low-light conditions.
2. Tracking Systems
- Acoustic Sensors: Acoustic sensors detect the sounds from drone motors and propellers. By analyzing these sounds, they can track where drones are. These sensors are often working with other sensors to improve tracking accuracy.
- Multi-Sensor Fusion: This method combines data from radar, RF scanners, and cameras. It creates a better overall tracking solution. By blending different data sources, it increases accuracy and reliability.
3. Identify systems
- RF (Radio Frequency) Detection Systems: It aims to identify operational frequencies and communication methods, enabling the system to categorize the drone type based on its operating frequency.
- Optical Cameras (Visual Identification): It helps in visual identification by comparing captured images to known drone models in the system's database.
4. Neutralization Systems
- Electronic Countermeasures: These systems disrupt the connection between a drone and its operator, causing the drone to lose control. Techniques like jamming and spoofing are common countermeasures.
- Physical Interceptors: These devices (net guns, projectiles, and laser systems) physically capture or destroy drones.
- Directed Energy Weapons: Directed energy weapons use focused energy, like lasers or microwaves, to disable or destroy drones. These systems are precise and effective against drones at different ranges.