Counter-UAS/Anti-Drone Technology: Drone Detection and Types of C-UAS

The unmanned sector has been fast-growing due to substantial improvements such as significant reductions in size, weight, and cost, improved battery life, and an increasing degree of autonomy in its operation.

Drones have also been used in a variety of sectors around the world, including infrastructure, logistics and transportation, insurance, entertainment and media, telecommunications, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, and defense.

Approximately one million drones have been registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as of now, and the figure is growing every day. With such a large number of drones in the air, effective detection systems can help to mitigate the risks connected with drone use.

Unfortunately, the simplicity with which drones or unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) are now available has led to their malevolent use. Numerous incidents of drone identification and close contact with passenger planes have occurred in various countries, posing a hazard to both human lives and commercial aircraft operations.

Furthermore, the frequency of unlawful and terrorist operations is rising, as is the prevalence of security violations by unlicensed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs), thereby posing a threat to national security in numerous countries. As a result, counter-UAS (anti-drone) solutions are required to combat the growing peril of drones.

Counter-Drone Technology or C-UAS/Counter-UAS/C-UAS Technology

Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (counter-UAS or C-UAS) technology refers to a form of equipment used to find, fix, track, detect, and neutralize unknown unmanned aerial aircraft (UAVs).

As drones become more widely used, counter-UAS technology is continuously developing and changing. Concerns about the risk that drones pose in commercial and military situations have fueled the advancement of C-UAS technology.

The increased usage of commercial drones, as well as events involving them, has necessitated the development of counter UAV technology or anti-drone devices to nullify errant drones. Some anti-drone systems incorporate sensors that detect unidentified UAVs, assess dangers using electro-optical/infrared imaging and RF emissions, and eliminate the threat.

A counter-UAS system can identify, track, and seize unmanned aerial vehicles. Radar, electro-optical/infrared, radiofrequency, and acoustic systems are among the ways to identify and track UAS. Interceptors aid in the elimination of UAVs, lowering the danger posed by drones.

Protocol-based interception, sensor-based deterrence, jamming, and physical interdiction can all be used to eliminate drones further. Economic feasibility, effective emergency plans, and laws are just a few of the hurdles that must be overcome when using these technologies.

Various Types of C-UAS Technologies

Counter-UAS tactics can be divided into two categories. Drone detection is the first step, followed by drone mitigation or interception.

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), sometimes known as drones, are detected using drone detection technologies. Radar, RF sensors, and pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) cameras are all used to detect drones. Drone detection will detect an invading drone in the airspace if it travels within the restricted border.

Drone mitigation or interception operates by interrupting drone flight either electrically or manually. Drone jammers, spoofers, nets, and security drones are examples of drone mitigation technology.

Drone countermeasures terminology is frequently interchanged; however, there is a distinction between drone detection and alternative drone countermeasure technologies.

Most Common Methods for Detecting Drones

The most common technologies for detecting drones are radar and RF detection. Radar and RF detection can be used to improve airspace protection in a variety of situations, including urban and high-noise areas. The combination of RF and radar can be utilized to develop a multi-layered solution that provides users with enhanced coverage and protection.

DJI AeroScope is among the most recognized drone detecting devices. This system can be utilized as a part of a multi-layered airspace security strategy. It can be used in conjunction with other RF sensors and radars to expand range and security.

Drone detection technology provides users with spatial awareness, allowing them to make accurate decisions and pursue legal actions as needed. In comparison to interception technologies, which may or may not be legitimate, drone detection technology has the advantage of being legal.

Aim and Applications of Counter-Drone Technology

Counter-drone technology is currently in use in a variety of military and commercial applications. C-UAS systems are used by the U.S. military for base security overseas. The use of portable and mobile systems to defend ground units and troop carriers is also gaining popularity.

Counter-drone technology is presently in use in urban settings in a multitude of scenarios. Airports, arenas, prisons, enterprises, and large events such as the Super Bowl have all deployed C-UAS for airspace protection.

Although drone countermeasures are available, not all of them are allowed in most countries. Since drone detection is legal, it is a more credible and feasible security alternative.