MODERN METHODS FOR DETECTION OF UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES

Abstract

Most recent Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) detection methods are discussed in the article. Detection of UAV principles are pointed out during the overview. Brief advantages of each technique is covered and compared in between. Key technological limitations of each technique is pointed out and discussed. Several most recent and actual UAV threat accidents are presented with the indication of the used counter UAV systems. New upcoming threat of “Kamikaze” (selfdestructive) UAV and their detection limitations are presented. Case studies on the hybrid counter drone technology interactions are covered. In this article, important civil and military types of UAV propulsion are covered. Design features and future consumer demands, are analyzed, aiming at UAV components which are mandatory to perform a flight. Using recently published articles energy sources and thrust power plants are analyzed. UAV detection principles, that include audio signal signature analysis, aerial object video tracking, thermal heat signature analysis, radar systems, radio frequency spectrum and data packet communication detection are covered, pointing out their advantages and limitations. Conclusions are drawn taking into account future perspective of the UAV technology developments and upcoming future threats of the highest impact. Evaluation of most actual recent articles is made in order to overview weak points of the counter UAV system development techniques. Finally future UAV technology development is analyzed and main safety related threats are indicated. Slowly developing UAV components are indicated, putting more attention on possible UAV detection methods, where UAV mandatory components will not become obsolete.