New Delhi: The acoustic anti-drone system developed by scientists at the Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO), Chandigarh, could become a major addition to India’s counter-drone capabilities. The innovative technology uses high-intensity sound waves to disable hostile drones in mid-air without firing bullets, missiles, or lasers.
Developed with support from the IHUB-NTIHAC Foundation at IIT Kanpur, the system is designed to counter growing threats from small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) used in smuggling, surveillance, and other covert activities.
CSIO Unveils New Acoustic Anti-Drone Technology
Scientists at CSIO Chandigarh, a laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), have developed a new acoustic-based anti-drone system.
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Unlike conventional counter-drone solutions that rely on jamming communication signals or using kinetic weapons, this technology attacks a drone’s internal balance mechanism using directed sound waves.
How the Acoustic Anti-Drone System Works
The system directs high-intensity acoustic waves toward a drone’s Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) gyroscopes. These sensors help a drone maintain balance by measuring rotational speed and angular movement. When exposed to targeted sound waves, the sensors generate incorrect readings.
As a result, the drone loses stability, begins to wobble uncontrollably, and may eventually crash or become incapable of carrying out its mission.
Acoustic Anti-Drone System: Effective Against Autonomous Drones
One of the key advantages of the technology is that it targets the drone’s internal navigation system rather than its communication link. This means the system can potentially neutralise fully autonomous drones that do not depend on remote-control signals, making it useful against advanced UAV threats.
Developed to Address Growing Drone Threats
India has witnessed an increase in the use of small drones for smuggling narcotics, weapons, counterfeit currency, and surveillance activities near sensitive areas. Security agencies have also highlighted the expanding role of drones in modern warfare and cross-border operations, increasing the need for advanced counter-drone technologies.
What are the Advantages of Acoustic Counter-Drone Systems
Experts say acoustic systems are lightweight, mobile, and cost-effective compared to some traditional counter-drone solutions. They can complement radar and radio-frequency detection systems by providing an additional layer of protection against micro and nano drones. The technology is especially useful for point defence of sensitive installations, military bases, and critical infrastructure.
Key Challenges and Limitations
Despite its potential, acoustic counter-drone technology has certain limitations.
Its operational range is generally shorter than radar-based systems. Performance can also be affected by strong winds, environmental noise, and unsuitable weather conditions. Because of these limitations, experts recommend using acoustic systems alongside other counter-drone technologies rather than as standalone solutions.
Acoustic Anti-Drone System Commercialisation Plans Underway
CSIO has expressed interest in transferring the technology to industry partners for commercial production. The organisation is currently seeking companies capable of manufacturing and marketing the acoustic detector and neutralisation system at scale. The technology features a modular design that can be integrated with existing commercial off-the-shelf hardware, making deployment easier for security agencies and defence users.
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