What will you do when you find that a drone has hovered over a crowd just for a few seconds? Although fixed technologies are very effective, sometimes they are beyond your reach. Here is an explanation of what handheld technology can be used.
This includes the working of the portable anti-drone radar, the jamming device, limitations in Europe, and a layered approach.
The Rise Of Low-Level Drone Threats
Unauthorised flights are increasing at an alarming pace in Europe, with many airports, stadiums, and energy infrastructures experiencing intrusions on a weekly basis. Some of these flights are being carried out using inexpensive consumer drones. Unauthorised drone flights are responsible for runway closures, breaches of privacy, and even smuggling, where an individual unauthorised flight can disrupt operations for hours at a time. In fast-changing situations, teams need something that can work quickly.
Why a portable anti-drone radar adds flexibility to mobile operations
The portable radar system provides immediate airspace awareness and can be mounted on a tripod, car, or mast system. The installation process is less than five minutes. This system does not require any special installation like the other systems, because of which it is easy to use for patrols, short-term events, VIP protection, and emergencies.
The modern portable radar system is capable of detecting small objects that have very small cross sections and has an average range of 3-5 kilometres. This system provides information related to the speed, altitude, and trajectory of the target in real-time. The system works well in any kind of weather conditions, day or night.
Understanding How Jamming Guns Work
A jamming gun is a directionally emitted RF weapon held from the shoulder, which aims the energy towards the target in order to interfere with its control and navigation signals.
Core Operating Principles
Drones normally use 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz frequencies for control and video, while a number of drones use the GNSS frequency band 1.5GHz. A jamming gun interrupts those specific frequencies. As a result of link interruption, a drone hovers, lands or comes back, depending on its failsafe programming.
Effective Range And Limitations
The typical range of operation for jamming is 1 to 3 kilometres, depending on several factors such as power, antenna gain, and environment. The urban environment will reduce this range somewhat. It is important to note some limitations, which include the following: drones that use inertial navigation are resistant to GNSS denial; fibre-optic guided drones are not affected by RF jamming at all.
When a Drone Jamming Gun Is the Appropriate Choice
Guns are effective when there is a need for quick and accurate responses to situations. This is because guns can be used in places such as prisons to prevent the entry of contraband into the prison. This is also a good weapon that is effective against threats in a situation where there is a clear sight of the threat. This is portable as opposed to stationary measures, which cannot be taken legally.
Legal And Operational Considerations In Europe
Jamming is highly regulated in many European nations. Jamming is normally limited to use by the government, military, or police, depending on whether there is any permission from these sources for such operations.
Even where permission is given, one must take into account that there are potential side effects of jamming GNSS, as it will affect other navigation systems within range, as well as the RF interference that might disrupt communication networks.
Combining Detection And Mitigation For Layered Security
The best solution involves the combination of mobile detection and selective mitigation. Radar detects, RF identifies, and optics confirm. Mitigation is applied where it is warranted. This process minimises risks and maximises accountability. Teams reduce unnecessary emissions and focus on validated threats.
The use of command software is helpful because maps, tracking, and real-time alerts are exchanged, allowing for better decision-making and accountability. For those organisations considering solutions, solid engineering is important. UAV Defence provides mobile detection and directed mitigation systems tailored to European requirements.
Choosing The Right Tool For Your Airspace
Static jammers protect stationary assets, while portable radars take care of the gaps that occur during manoeuvres. Handheld mitigation can be applied promptly if the law allows. Use of the drone jamming gun is contingent on distance, authorisation, environmental conditions, and threat type. It is best used as a last-resort solution to an identified threat.
Detection should always precede mitigation, but only apply it if the law allows. Train your people well and do not complicate things.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between Detection and Jamming?
Detection involves detecting and following the drones using radar, RF or visual detection, and jamming involves interfering with the communication channels so that the drone lands or goes back to base. The detection process always precedes jamming.
Can a Jamming Gun Stop All Drones?
Not necessarily. The jamming tool could jam most commercial drones operating on conventional frequencies, but not autonomous and fibre-based drones. A combination of both processes is vital.
Is It Legal To Use A Jamming Gun In Europe?
This is dependent on which nation in Europe you reside in. There are laws in several EU countries allowing only the authorised agencies to use the tool.
