ETRI developed EO/IR-linked radar technology to strengthen the public safety and national security against illegal drone threats.
The electronics and telecommunications research institute (ETRI), South Korea has announced the development of a new technology for detecting and tracking illegal drones. Designed to combat unauthorised drone activity—including privacy invasion, terrorism, and unlicensed flights—this innovative system is expected to significantly enhance public safety and bolster national security. Targeted users for this technology include government security agencies, law enforcement, event organisers, and public facility managers who face potential threats from unauthorised drone activities.
ETRI’s solution employs a sophisticated EO/IR (electro-optics/infrared) linked radar system, capable of identifying and tracking drones within range. This dual-subsystem setup features a radar component, co-developed with Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd., which can detect small drones up to 5km away using the Ku-band, a less congested frequency than the military’s X-band. Complementing this, the EO/IR subsystem utilises cameras to capture video footage and analyse incoming drones, effectively tracking targets up to 3km away and confirming drone activity within 2km. The technology is designed to respond quickly to drones, enhancing real-time detection and neutralisation capabilities.
This technology, transferred by ETRI to Samjung Solution Co., Ltd. in 2022, was then refined for commercial use through a project funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korean national police agency. By July 2024, Samjung Solution registered a ‘vehicle-type integrated solution system’ with the public procurement service’s Nara marketplace, solidifying its potential for broad application in national defence and public safety.
In August 2024, ETRI successfully demonstrated this technology in a drone response exercise during the Ulchi training event, where they detected, tracked, and ultimately neutralised an unauthorised drone attempting to breach ETRI headquarters. By jamming the drone’s signals, researchers validated the technology’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
“This EO/IR-linked radar system is a pivotal development in countering illegal drone activities,” stated Cha Ji-Hun, director of ETRI’s autonomous UAV research section. “Our technology is poised to elevate national security and public safety. ETRI remains committed to advancing solutions that safeguard society.”
With its versatile applications, EO/IR radar technology holds promise for sectors such as event security, coastline and border surveillance, VIP protection, and drone traffic control, positioning ETRI’s innovation as a key contributor to a safer, more secure society.
