South Korean detection system tracks down illegally flying drones
Illegally operated drones can pose a threat to major events, for example. Researchers have developed a detection system that is already in use.
The ETRI system reliably detects even small drones at a distance of up to 2 km.
(Image: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute)
A research team from the South Korean Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) has developed a technology that can detect illegally flying drones. This involves drones whose operators commit crimes such as unauthorized flights in specific regions, terrorism and privacy violations. The system is intended to better protect the population from the threat posed by illegal drones.
Radar and EO/IR systems work together
The basis of ETRI's drone detection system is a radar that can detect drones with the support of electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) systems, reports Korea IT Times. This allows drones to be tracked and identified. The EO and IR sensors are automatically aligned with the target detected by the radar. The radar and EO/IR subsystems work together.
The radar system was developed by the ETRI together with Hanwha Systems, a South Korean specialist in defense electronics. It can detect even small drones within a radius of 5 km, using the electromagnetic spectrum of the Ku band, which is in the microwave range with frequencies between 12 and 18 GHz. This avoids the X-band, which is often used for military purposes.
The EO/IR subsystem is a development of the ETRI. It receives target information from the radar and uses an EO/IR camera to create images of the target. The images form the basis for detection and tracking. This works at a distance of up to 3 km, according to the scientists. Whether the flying object is actually a drone can be reliably determined at a distance of less than 2 km.
Commercialization
In order to bring the drone detection system to market, the ETRI transferred the technology to the defence company Samjung Solution in 2022, which specializes in systems that can block radio waves. The drone detection system was then implemented on the market by 2024 as part of a Police Technology Commercialization Project. The South Korean Ministry of Science and the Korean National Police Agency supported the project. The detection technology is now available.
According to the scientists involved in the project, the system can be used in a variety of ways. For example, it can be used to monitor major events, public facilities, sporting events, VIP and border protection, coastal surveillance, drone traffic control and objects requiring special protection.
(olb)