Non-kinetic counter-UAV measures work by interrupting or intercepting communication signals. These methods usually end with the drone falling to the ground at a fairly fast speed, so it is an unwelcome countermeasure to use in crowds. While it may not be suitable for use in crowds, it can be useful in other environments. When considering drone countermeasures, always check the laws of your country, drone jammers and drone spoofers are not legal in the United States. Let's take a look at some different non-kinetic C-UAS methods.
Jammers are designed to block radio frequency signals, while spoofers emit false GPS signals that resemble legitimate ones. By sending a counterfeit signal, spoofers can hijack the drone's communication link, causing the device to misinterpret it as a valid signal due to its similarity to the true signal.
Spoofers function by broadcasting a more vigorous fake signal. They can instigate a short delay between the drone and its controller, then proceed to send a more forceful false signal. This grants the spoofer control over the device, enabling them to fly the drone. Spoofers manipulate GPS receivers.
When a UAS device operates using GPS, it becomes increasingly difficult to protect against GPS spoofing. The GPS signal is transmitted from satellites, and it is not possible to apply standard protective measures, such as encryption and certificates, to these satellite signals.
Spoofers have four main disadvantages compared to C-UAS:
In various nations, including the United States, engaging in drone spoofing is illegal.
Drones operating without GPS are less vulnerable to the tactics employed by drone spoofers.
Drone spoofers do not possess the means to determine the pilot's location or the flight's route.
The interference caused by drone jammer to nearby GPS signals poses significant difficulties for authorities in utilizing GPS devices during true emergency scenarios.