Mon, 20 Oct 2025

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 What's the best way to detect and destroy drones?

Tech firms are developing more affordable ways to detect and destroy drones.
In Aalborg, Denmark, a company called MyDefence has seen a surge in demand for its equipment that jams and repels drones. The device detects communication between the drone and its pilot, then breaks that connection by emitting a powerful radio signal on the same frequency, causing the drone to be pushed away and land safely. However, detecting drones is not easy, as they can be small or large and are often made of materials like plastic or fabric that are hard to detect with traditional radar. To address this issue, researchers are developing technologies such as acoustic sensors, advanced optical cameras, and sophisticated tactical radars. Once a drone is detected, it needs to be disabled. Electronic jamming has become more effective in recent years, thanks to the war in Ukraine, where frontlines have been heavily jammed, causing drone controllers to lose control of their machines. As a result, Russia and Ukraine have adapted by using drones controlled by fibre optic cables or pre-programmed routes. Firms are working on novel ways to intercept or shoot down drones. For example, Swedish start-up Nordic Air Defence is developing a low-cost interceptor that can strike targeted drones, forcing them to crash. Cost is a critical factor in countering drones, with Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte saying it's unacceptable to shoot down drones costing $1,000-$2,000 with missiles worth half a million dollars. Low-cost drones are becoming increasingly common and pose a security threat not just on the frontlines of Ukraine but also in other countries. Poland, Romania, Norway, Sweden, Lithuania, and Germany have all reported drone incidents recently. In response, Denmark has deployed equipment to detect and jam drones, while Sweden plans to invest $365 million in anti-drone systems. In civilian settings, shooting down drones can be too risky due to the falling parts and potentially flammable fuel. Instead, early detection and safer options like hacking or soft-kill methods are being explored.
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