Anti-drone sensors, effectors, and systems –a concise overview

The dynamic development of microelectronics and wireless communication at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries contributed to the increase in the availability and popularity of all kinds of unmanned platforms, air, land, surface, and underwater. In the case of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also popularly known as drones, the significant (crucial) advantages are high freedom of motion (i.e., the ability to move in three planes) and the possibility of using it practically anywhere (as opposed to water platforms). These factors influenced the dynamic development of this market sector and the high availability of various models and equipment. UAVs are being used in many sectors and services, both for civil and military purposes. Widespread availability, low cost, and ease of use also favor the possibility of using civilian UAVs for criminal, smuggling, terrorist, or military purposes. Recent armed conflicts, e.g., in Nagorno-Karabakh or Ukraine, and the situation on the eastern Polish-Belarusian border clearly show this. All countries recognize the potential and threat posed by the development of unmanned platforms. Therefore, for several years, special attention has been paid to analyses and research in sensors, effectors, and anti-drone systems. It is worth emphasizing that some effectors (e.g., jammers or spoofers) may significantly affect the navigation process of neighboring objects that use global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs). On the other hand, the use of anti-drone systems is important, especially in the context of protecting institutions and facilities of companies, state administration (i.a., embassies, consulates), army, strategic importance objects (e.g., related to energy, chemical industry), or protection of mass events. In this paper, we present an overview of solutions available on the market and development directions in the field of anti-drone technology.