Radar detection and spectrum detection drones each have their advantages and disadvantages. The following is a detailed analysis of them:
Radar detection unmanned aerial vehicle
Advantage
Long detection range: The radar technology is mature and can detect unmanned aerial vehicles from a long distance. For instance, some large phased array radars can detect targets tens of kilometers away.
High positioning accuracy: It can precisely measure the distance, height, orientation, speed and other information of the unmanned aerial vehicle, providing accurate data for subsequent interception or disposal.
All-weather working capability: It is relatively less affected by weather conditions. Whether it is day or night, or rainy and foggy weather, it can basically maintain the detection function.
Detectable silent unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) : Even if UAVs do not emit signals, radars can still detect them by reflecting electromagnetic waves.
Disadvantage
There is a blind spot at close range: Usually, there is a detection blind spot within the range of 100m to 400m, making it impossible to effectively monitor the drones in this area.
Limited detection capability for low, slow and small targets: For low-altitude, slow-moving and small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), such as those hovering or flying at low speeds, due to the low Doppler frequency shift, radar is difficult to detect them.
It is susceptible to ground object noise and electromagnetic environment: Ground object noise can interfere with radar signals, and complex electromagnetic environments may also affect its normal operation, leading to false alarms or missed alarms.
High installation conditions and high costs: Radar antennas require good installation conditions, have high construction costs, are difficult to maintain in the later stage, and may also cause electromagnetic pollution to the surrounding areas.
Spectrum detection unmanned aerial vehicle
Advantage
Low cost: Spectrum detection equipment is relatively simple and has a low cost, making it suitable for large-scale deployment.
Flexible and concealed deployment: As a passive system, it does not emit electromagnetic waves and is not easily detected, allowing for flexible deployment in various environments.
High recognition accuracy for known unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) : By analyzing the characteristics of the UAV's radio signals, such as modulation methods and signal bandwidth, specific models of UAVs can be accurately identified.
Unrestricted by the size and material of the drone: Regardless of the size or material of the drone, as long as it emits signals, spectrum detection can function.
Disadvantage
Short detection range: Generally, the effective detection range is only a few hundred meters to a few kilometers, which is much shorter than the detection range of radar.
Relying on the target to actively transmit signals: If the unmanned aerial vehicle is in autonomous flight mode or remains radio silent, spectrum detection cannot detect it.
In complex electromagnetic environments, it is prone to interference: Signals emitted by various electronic devices in cities may be mixed with those from drones, leading to misjudgment or missed judgment.
Limited positioning accuracy: It can only roughly determine the direction of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), but cannot accurately measure its distance, height, speed and other information.