Plextek Consulting and Dstl uncover new solution to detect and track small UAS

The UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) and Plextek Consulting have developed a new capability to detect and track small and slow-moving unmanned air systems (UAS).

Using innovative radar technology and signal and image processing, the new capability can detect different types of UAS including fixed-wing and quad-copter.

Chief Technology Officer Paul Martin said the company worked with Dstl and highlighted the performance of radar technology, with clear results revealing there is an innovative, cost-effective way to detect low-cost UAS.

"Once fully developed, this can be applied with both homeland defence and commercial domains, by the provision of local airspace monitoring and enhancement to the safety of UAS operation,"Martin added.

Recently, the equipment has undergone testing during a two-week sensor trial, which was organised by DSTL, in Scotland.

The trials demonstrated advanced signal processing techniques’ability to differentiate radar returns from moving objects such as swaying-trees and birds while distinguishing between different types of UAS.

Upon completion of successful trials, Plextek is developing a solution capable of combining the benefits of an electronically scanned radar with advanced signal and image processing in order to detect, track, recognise and identify a non-cooperative airborne target.

Aimed to provide a complete air surveillance solution, Plextek is seeking collaboration with system integrators to equip the new technology with other sensors and systems.