IIT Jammu develops anti-drone system

Dr. Karan Nathwani, a professor in the Electrical Engineering department at IIT Jammu, has developed a novel anti-drone system based on sound technology.

“This is the first system of its kind, using a new technology we’ve developed called sound-based detection,” Dr. Nathwani explained. “It detects the sound emitted by drones, creating a unique signature for identification. By comparing this signature with the system’s database, we can detect drones. The system is cost-effective, at around Rs 4 lakh, and user-friendly, suitable for the general public. It operates without the need for cameras or radar, addressing various challenges.”

The sound-based drone detection system will detect drones and even birds, including those crossing the border from Pakistan.

Dr. Nathwani highlighted the increasing challenge of drones for security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, used to transport arms, ammunition, cash, and drugs from Pakistan. In response, technologies like the sound-based drone detection system are being developed.

The development of this technology took between six months to a year, with the primary challenge being related to data. Dr. Nathwani emphasized the need for a comprehensive anti-drone Grid system on the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LOC), with several anti-drone technologies already installed or in development.

“Our AI technology requires data from similar environments used by the army to provide a foolproof anti-drone Grid system,” Dr. Nathwani noted.

The sound-based drone detection system can detect drones, aircraft, multiple drones, or birds flying up to 300 meters based on their sound. The cost of producing this drone ranges from Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000.