With the boon in drone sales, the likelihood that they’ll be used to commit criminal acts rises. ISIS has even begun using them to shuttle explosive devices around war-torn Iraq.
There’s no shortage of devices built to take down drones. But current technology requires the gadget to be in close range of the flying object — or to buy and train an eagle. Extending the range of anti-drone devices keeps the operator out of the blast radius should a rogue quadcopter be carrying explosives.
DroneGun, a handheld anti-drone device, has a range of 1.2 miles. It also looks like an unlockable item in a first-person shooter.
The “gun” uses a jammer to disable electronic communication across the 2.4 and 5.8 GHz frequencies. Blocking these frequencies cuts off communication between the drone and pilot (or GPS) and forces it to land safely or return to its operator — which assists in tracking the offending party.
The 💜 of EU tech
The latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!
According to the website:
It allows for a controlled management of drone payload, such as explosives, with no damage to common drone models or the surrounding environment.
At 13 pounds, it’s a bit cumbersome, but still capable of being operated by one person. It’s also mostly a point-and-shoot device and doesn’t require specialized training to use.
DroneGun isn’t approved for use in the United States — thanks, FCC. If approved the device could provide a useful tool for taking down drones at airports, over crowded spaces, and in war zones.
via Wired
Get the TNW newsletter
Get the most important tech news in your inbox each week.