Field Validation of an Integrated Counter-UAS System: Radar, EO Tracking, RF Jamming, and Drone Interception Performance
Keywords:
Autonomous systems, Counter-UAS, Drone interception, Layered defense, Radar detection, RF jamming, UAS interdictionAbstract
The proliferation of small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) has raised serious security concerns in modern military operations due to their low cost, wide availability, and adaptability. This paper presents a comprehensive field evaluation of an integrated counter-UAS (C-UAS) system conducted in collaboration with a military test unit in Thailand. The deployed system combined a 3D surveillance radar, an Electro-Optical (EO) tracking camera, a multi-band Radio-Frequency (RF) jammer, and an autonomous net-based interceptor drone into a layered defense platform. Field trials were performed against representative small drones (Class 1 and Class 2 UAS targets, including both quadcopter and fixed-wing types) across various approach scenarios. Results: The system reliably detected UAS targets at distances up to 4 km, enabled visual identification at approximately 800 m, disrupted control links via RF jamming out to ~1.2 km, and achieved an interception success rate exceeding 85% in live engagements. These findings provide insight into each component’s performance in a layered defence and offer operational recommendations to inform future C-UAS deployments in military and high-value security environments.
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