New battlefields: drones and neutralization systems (C-UAS)

Over the past few years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), popularly known as drones, have become one of the key elements of modern armed conflicts, but also a tool used in industry, logistics, agriculture, emergency services or technical inspections. However, their ubiquity and increasing ease of access mean that the scale of threats – both to the military and civilian infrastructure – is also growing. In response to this challenge, a new technology segment is being developed: counter-UAS (Counter-UAS, C-UAS) systems, which aim to detect, monitor and neutralize threats from unauthorized UAV flights.

Today’s drone warfare resembles a technological race – on the one hand, we have lightning-fast, low-cost and hard-to-detect devices, and on the other, increasingly sophisticated defense systems, often using artificial intelligence, radio signal analysis, thermal imaging cameras and electromagnetic weapons. So it becomes crucial not only to have the right equipment, but also to be able to integrate and operationalize it in a dynamic threat environment.

MBF Group SA, as a company with commercial and project management experience in the security field, is actively exploring the potential of the drone and anti-drone technology sector. Internally, we are developing competencies and building a team of experts, including specialists with military and operational experience. At the same time, we are constantly developing current operations and want to prove our competence through announcements of key commodity contracts (given their significant financial value).

The market for drones and anti-drone systems: a new branch of commerce

Today’s market for drones and anti-drone systems is growing rapidly and is becoming one of the most promising sectors of the modern economy. Increasingly, these are no longer just areas of military research or hobbyist civilian applications, but a fully formed industrial segment – comparable to the market for classic raw materials, technical components or electronic equipment. Manufacturing, brokering and selling solutions related to unmanned aerial vehicles – both combat and reconnaissance drones and tools for detecting or neutralizing them – are also becoming an everyday occurrence for civilian companies operating at the intersection of industry, defense and technology.

In fact, operating in this industry is not significantly different from classic trade in raw materials, fuels or chemicals – it requires reliable partners, knowledge of logistics, access to manufacturers and the ability to verify technical parameters. Issues of compliance with international regulations, certification and contractual liability are also playing an increasingly important role. Experienced commercial and logistics operators who previously specialized in the agro, chemical or petrochemical sectors now have a natural opportunity to expand into new security-related technologies – if they have the right skills and contacts.

MBF Group SA – as a listed company with a well-established position in trading raw materials, chemical products and industrial components – is using its potential to enter the market for unmanned and anti-drone technologies. Our background includes both experience in commercial brokerage and direct relationships with military experts, engineers and suppliers in the security and technology fields. We are building a team of specialists with experience in the army and defense industry, which enables us to take a competent and responsible approach to this new business segment.

Drone combat systems (C-UAS): overview and classification

The threat from unmanned aerial vehicles has led to the rapid development of anti-drone systems, which now form one of the most advanced and complex segments of modern defense technologies. The so-called. Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) are designed to effectively detect, identify, track and neutralize unauthorized drones – both in public and military spaces.

The process of fighting a drone begins with detecting its presence. Various types of sensors are used for this purpose: high-resolution radar, electro-optical and thermal imaging cameras, acoustic sensors, and radio frequency receivers that analyze signals from devices communicating with the UAV. Not only is measurement technology crucial, but also data integration and intelligent analysis – often using machine learning algorithms to distinguish between a real threat and a false alarm.

Once an object is detected, there is an identification phase – determining whether we are dealing with a drone, what type it is, what risks it may carry, whether it moves autonomously or is controlled remotely, and whether it is possible to pinpoint the location of the operator. If the threat is confirmed, the system switches to trajectory tracking, which makes it possible to assess the drone’s intentions and predict its further course, such as approaching critical infrastructure, hovering over a strategic facility, or approaching a landing.

The final stage of C-UAS operation is neutralization, which can take various forms. In civilian environments, non-kinetic methods are preferred, such as jamming radio signals (jamming), taking control of a drone (spoofing), or using electromagnetic weapons (HPM). In military settings or in situations where there is a need to quickly and directly neutralize a target, kinetic methods are also used: machine guns, fragmentation shells, interceptor drones or hand-held volley launchers.

Anti-drone systems can also be divided according to their nature of operation. Passive systems perform observation functions – they collect data about objects in the airspace, but do not directly interfere with their operation. These include radars, cameras, sound sensors or RF analyzers. They are the backbone of any installation, enabling early recognition of danger. Active systems, on the other hand, are responsible for direct response – physically or digitally disabling the drone. In this group fall both kinetic and electronic means of destruction.

Increasingly, however, the use of so-called “theft” is being used. Integrated systems – combining detection, tracking and neutralization technologies in a single platform. An example is the Polish REKiN system, which integrates radar, multi-barrel weapons, jammers and electromagnetic weapons, and its modular design allows it to be used in both stationary and mobile configurations. A similar approach is taken by DroneShield with solutions like DroneSentry-X, as well as Dedrone, or Airbus Defence and Space’s anti-drone system, which can effectively protect targets up to a 10-kilometer radius through a combination of radar, cameras and intelligent signal jamming.

Today’s drone warfare systems are no longer single devices – they are becoming complex operational environments, requiring the integration of multiple technologies, instant data analysis and flexible operation in a dynamic environment. It is this layering that makes C-UAS one of the key areas of development for the defense and public safety industry. MBF Group SA is also actively analyzing the potential of this market, developing its competencies and preparing for broader involvement in the creation and implementation of modern airspace security solutions.

Drone neutralization – the ultimate defense measure

When an unmanned aircraft is detected, identified and classified as a threat, neutralization becomes the key countermeasure step. It is this stage that closes the cycle of defense against drones and determines the effectiveness of the C-UAS. Neutralization can be carried out in two main ways: kinetic (physical destruction of the target) or non-kinetic (disruption of its functioning without physical contact).

The choice of method depends on a number of factors – the type and size of the drone, the location (urban area vs. open space), the nature of the object to be protected, and the consequences of a possible fall of a neutralized UAV.

Non-kinetic methods – fighting without physical force

Non-kinetic neutralization techniques are gaining importance, especially in civilian environments where minimizing risk to the environment is critical. Among the most commonly used are:

(a) Interference with signals (jamming)

Jamming systems(jammers) block the communication between the drone and its operator (RC channels, Wi-Fi, LTE) or GPS signal, leading to:

  • emergency landing,
  • return to start point (RTH),
  • hovering in place or loss of control.

Modern jamming systems can automatically recognize the type of frequency used and apply a precise, directional jamming signal.

b) Taking control (spoofing / hijacking)

In more advanced scenarios, it is possible to impersonate the operator and take control of the drone by:

  • GPS signal imitation (spoofing),
  • Interception of the communication protocol.

Such solutions require advanced equipment and knowledge of specific UAV systems, so they are mainly used by the military and specialized services.

(c) Electromagnetic weapons (EMP / HPM).

High-energy electromagnetic pulse (HPM) technologies deactivate a drone’s electronics by temporarily overloading integrated circuits. Their advantage is the possibility:

  • neutralizing multiple drones simultaneously,
  • operations over a larger area,
  • operate invisibly and immediately.

EM weapons are being tested, among others. by NATO, the U.S., China and selected EU countries – work is also well advanced in Poland.

Kinetic methods – physical destruction of the drone

Kinetic methods still play an important role, especially where interference cannot be relied upon (e.g., in the case of autonomous drones without active communication with the operator).

(a) Machine guns and programmable missiles

Mainly used in military systems – armaments of this type make it possible:

  • Destroying a drone at a distance of up to several hundred meters,
  • The elimination of single fast-moving targets.

Programmable explosive projectiles create a cloud of shrapnel, increasing effectiveness against small UAVs.

(b) Interceptor drones

These are drones specifically designed for pursuit and interception of other drones. They are most often equipped with:

  • interceptor nets,
  • gripping arms,
  • RF interference devices from close range.

They are used where precision and selectivity are a priority – such as in urban spaces.

(c) Hand-held net launchers

A simple and inexpensive solution, used by law enforcement and infrastructure protection. Their range is usually 15-30 meters. Although limited in effectiveness, they are useful for slow or hovering UAVs.

Integrated neutralization systems – an example of comprehensive solutions

Advanced C-UAS platforms combine several neutralization methods in a single architecture. Their advantage is the ability to respond flexibly to different types of threats.

Examples of integrated systems:

  • REKiN (Poland) – an extensive system that integrates:
    • radar and thermal imaging optics,
    • smart jammers,
    • A multi-barrel cannon and fragmentation ammunition,
    • Electromagnetic weapon components.
  • DroneSentry-X Mk2 (DroneShield) – a compact RF neutralization system integrated with AI, used among others. For convoy, airport and border security.
  • DedroneDefender – a handheld jamming system used by police and border guards in the US, Germany and Israel.
  • Airbus Counter-UAV System – uses intelligent radar, optical sensors and directional jamming, achieving effectiveness at distances of up to 10 km.

Designing and building drones on your own is not a trivial task, but it is possible, especially for those with basic knowledge of mechanics, electronics and programming. Building your own drone requires assembling the right components, such as a frame (usually four-armed), motors, speed controllers, a flight controller, propellers, and an image transmission and remote control system

Integrated drone neutralization systems, such as the Polish REKiN (Raging Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Emitter) system, are an example of comprehensive solutions combining a variety of defense methods in a single platform. REKiN integrates advanced sensors, including radar and thermal imaging optics, that enable effective detection and tracking of UAVs. The system uses smart jammers to disrupt drone radio signals, as well as kinetic components such as a multi-barrel cannon and fragmentation munitions to physically neutralize threats. In addition, the system is equipped with a high-powered electromagnetic weapon capable of flaunting targets at distances of up to 1 km, as confirmed during field tests.

The advantage of such integrated C-UAS platforms is their flexibility and adaptability to various threat scenarios, both in civilian and military environments. Through the fusion of data from various sensors and the use of artificial intelligence, these systems can automatically recognize, target and neutralize drones of different classes, tailoring the response to the specifics of the protected object. REKiN, the result of a collaboration between Polish scientific and industrial institutions, shows how combining kinetic and non-kinetic methods in a single system increases the effectiveness of protection against modern airborne threats.

Drone neutralization is one of the fastest growing segments of the security market today. It combines military technology, cyber technology and artificial intelligence. Hence the growing interest in this industry among industrial and defense companies. Within the framework of competence building, our Company is taking organizational and substantive measures that can form the basis for further development of safety and security solutions from unmanned aircraft in the future.

Defense against drones: practical deployments

The development of anti-drone technology is reflected not only in laboratories and R&D centers, but especially in real operational applications. Today’s drone defense systems integrate all phases of operation – from early detection to identification and tracking to neutralizing the threat – into a single, coherent architecture. An example of such a solution is DroneSentry from DroneShield, deployed at the U.S. Grand Forks Air Force Base and St. John’s Airport, among others. Gallen-Altenrhein in Switzerland. The system provides 24/7, 360-degree airspace protection, integrating radar, optical and radio sensors with intelligent jamming systems. Another advanced solution is Israel’s EnforceAir, which makes it possible to safely take control of an unauthorized drone and bring it in to land at a designated location.

Practical implementations of such systems increasingly include civilian and military airports that need to protect airspace from accidental or intentional drone violations. Their presence can lead to delays, interruptions in flight operations and, in extreme cases, endanger the lives and health of passengers. Equally important are applications in military facilities and critical infrastructure, such as power plants, refineries, fuel storage facilities and data processing centers. In these locations, drones can be used for reconnaissance, sabotage or disruption of technical systems.

C-UAS systems are also used at mass public events – concerts, sporting events or state gatherings – where the goal is to ensure the safety of participants and preemptively exclude the risk of assassination or provocation. In recent years, the use of anti-drone technology has also been expanding in the protection of borders and coastal and port zones, where unauthorized drones can be used for smuggling, reconnaissance or espionage.

Effective defense against drones requires a comprehensive approach that integrates a variety of technologies, such as micro-doppler radar, artificial intelligence for image and signal analysis, radio jammers with a precisely defined range, or systems for taking control of the device in flight. Such solutions are now becoming standard in modern airspace security systems, providing a real advantage in an environment where the number and technical sophistication of threats are constantly increasing.

Self-design and construction of drones

In an era of wide access to technology, open-source platforms and low-cost electronic components, designing and building your own drone has also become possible outside the professional industry. However, this does not mean that it is an easy task. Self-construction of a drone requires knowledge at the intersection of mechanics, electronics and programming, as well as a practical understanding of aerodynamics and the operation of control systems.

Designing a drone requires an understanding of the aerodynamics and principles of individual components, as well as the ability to integrate them into a working system. The drone’s control system is relatively intuitive, but requires training to master steering in different orientations relative to the operator.

In practice, building FPV (first-person view flying) drones on your own is popular among hobbyists, although there are now ready-made, advanced FPV systems on the market that make it much easier for even beginners to get started. However, it is worth remembering that designing and building a drone on your own takes time, patience and practice, especially when it comes to calibration and flight testing. Off-the-shelf “out of the box” drones offer greater stability and safety, but at the cost of less flexibility in customizing components.

In conclusion, designing and building drones is possible for enthusiasts, but this cannot be considered an easy task – it requires technical knowledge, practice and access to the right components and tools. For beginners, it may be better to start with off-the-shelf kits or system-integrated FPV drones that allow you to quickly learn how to fly and understand the basics of the design.

The future of anti-drone systems

Drone warfare is becoming one of the key challenges of modern security systems – both military and civilian. The development of UAV technology has accelerated exponentially in the past decade, and their availability, miniaturization and operational capabilities have meant that even simple designs can pose a serious threat to critical infrastructure, public order and even the conduct of military operations. The answer to this trend must be the equally rapid development of anti-drone technologies – combining detection precision, neutralization efficiency and integration flexibility with existing security systems.

Modern C-UAS solutions are increasingly taking the form of comprehensive, integrated platforms combining radar, electro-optical and RF sensors, signal analysis using artificial intelligence, and intelligent means of neutralization – both kinetic and non-kinetic. They are deployed at airports, military bases, borders and mass events, where they provide real protection against airborne threats. At the same time, there is a growing segment of private and semi-professional users who build or modify their own drones for sports, research or technical purposes. This development is inextricably linked to the need for standards, training and regulations – so that UAV technologies can be used safely and responsibly.

In this changing market and technological reality, it is essential to involve not only state institutions and services, but also private industrial players who can bring flexibility, innovation and engineering competence to next-generation security systems. In this context, MBF Group SA recognizes the strategic importance of the drone and anti-drone industry, viewing it as an area of potential business development in the coming years. Creating a base of expertise, based on military and industrial experience, is one element of building competence in unmanned technology and airspace protection systems.

The future of drone warfare lies not only in increasingly sophisticated detection and neutralization systems, but also in the integration of these solutions with command networks, mobile platforms and, in the longer term, artificial intelligence systems that make decisions in real time. Fighting in the air domain today is not only a matter of defense, but also of technological and information superiority. Drones – as tools, but also as threats – will become increasingly important in the strategies of states, services and companies.

 

C-UAS