Drone signal conflict: application of jamming technology in modern warfare
With the rapid expansion of the drone industry, some individuals and groups have begun to use drones for malicious activities. In response to this trend, many companies have entered the anti-drone industry and launched a variety of technologies to counter drones, such as drone guns, anti-drone shooting, attack birds, network artillery, lasers, missiles, signal jammers, and radio transmitters. These technologies are designed to stop or destroy drones through physical or non-kinetic means.
Currently, in addition to physical projectiles, there are three main non-kinetic methods used to counter drones: radio frequency (RF) jamming, global navigation satellite system (GNSS) jamming, and spoofing. RF jamming disrupts the connection between the drone and its operator, usually causing the drone to lose control, descend, or return. GNSS jamming causes the drone to lose contact with satellite navigation, causing the drone to hover in the air, land, or return to the starting point. Deception technology, on the other hand, controls the flight path of drones by providing them with false information.
The Importance of Signal Jammers in Modern Warfare
Signal jammer devices have played an important role in modern warfare. For example, during the military operation in Crimea, Ukrainian military communications were completely cut off, resulting in the Ukrainian army being unable to receive orders from Kiev, which greatly reduced the resistance. This success demonstrated the potential of jamming technology in warfare. However, these technologies are not limited to the battlefield. In daily life, jammers are also used to protect airspace security and prevent the malicious use of drones.
In addition, many countries, such as China and Russia, are actively developing advanced digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) jamming devices. These devices are able to remember incoming radar signals and repeat them back to the sender, significantly reducing the performance of friendly radars. In this way, jamming technology can not only be used to attack drones, but can also play an important role in the wider military and security fields.
Against the backdrop of the current global tensions, the importance of anti-drone jamming technology has become increasingly prominent. Countries such as China are constantly developing various capabilities to limit or prevent opponents from using space-based assets in crises and conflicts, including directed energy weapons and satellite jamming. The development and application of these technologies have not only changed the pattern of modern warfare, but also provided new strategies and means for future military operations.