Emerging Anti-Drone Technology To Be Commercialized

Evolving anti-drone technology designed to detect, control, and as necessary, divert unauthorized drones to a safe landing will soon be commercialized pursuant to a licensing agreement between Embry Riddle University and Drone Defense Systems LLC, a Daytona Beach based company founded and run by Embry Riddle Alum Sotirios George Kaminis.

The technology developed by Embry Riddle Professor Dr. Houbing Song presents safe and affordable means to neutralize errant drones by commandeering them to a safe landing by leveraging a network of wireless acoustic sensors to identify drones. Once the technology confirms a drone, the acoustic sensors, in conjunction with beacon receivers, transmit information to a control center which can assess the drone’s video-streaming channel and interrupt it with a warning.  The technology is also capable of overtaking the drone’s communication channel and accelerating its pre-determined return flight, or in luring the drone away from the area.

The explosion of drone use, whether for hobby or other, has sparked safety concerns particularly with respect to commercial airline carriers and their passengers.  Pilots increasingly report drone sightings and travel has been impacted at airports across the world when drones have entered unauthorized airspace.  Although technology already exists to allow for drone diversion, that technology is often cost prohibitive and, in some instances, can result in collateral damage to persons or property.

Because the newly developed anti-drone technology by Embry Riddle is non-intrusive, it offers greater utility for civilian uses and, is not considered a weapon thus allowing for greater export possibilities as it is not subject to ITAR – the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.