Drone killer noise: Chandigarh scientist develops new anti-drone tech that destroy aerial threats without firing a single bullet or laser beam

Scientists at the Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) have developed an acoustic-based anti-drone system designed to disable unauthorised unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in mid-air, as India faces a persistent security threat from small, low-cost drones used for cross-border smuggling and other operations.

The system uses high-intensity sound waves to disrupt a drone's internal balance sensors, causing it to lose stability and potentially fall within seconds. Funded by IHUB-NTIHAC, a technology innovation and cybersecurity hub established at IIT Kanpur, the technology is being considered for commercial production and deployment.

The CSIO is now seeking industrial partners with the technical capabilities needed to transfer the technology for commercial manufacturing and marketing of the acoustic detector.


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Acoustic system targets drone balance sensors

Unlike conventional jammers that disrupt radio signals, the CSIO system directs specific, high-intensity sound frequencies towards a drone's internal sensors. The technology targets MEMS, or Micro-Electro-Mechanical System, gyroscopes that help drones maintain balance and navigate.

The sensors measure rotational speed or angular velocity and allow a drone's flight computer to determine whether it is tilting, turning or remaining level. CSIO's system uses specialised speakers known as transducers to direct sound at the flying drone.

When the sound reaches the frequency at which the internal sensor vibrates, the sensor can begin oscillating uncontrollably. This can generate false readings for the drone's computer, causing it to attempt to correct a movement that is not actually occurring. The resulting instability can make the drone wobble, drift or tumble from the sky.

Because the system targets the drone's internal balance mechanism rather than its communication link, it can also be used against fully automated UAVs that do not depend on remote-control signals.

Growing drone threat in India

India continues to face a threat from small and inexpensive drones being used for cross-border smuggling of narcotics, weapons and counterfeit currency.

The large-scale deployment of different types of drones during Operation Sindoor last year also highlighted the expanding role of unmanned platforms in modern warfare. Recent reports have further indicated that rogue drone operators are adopting advanced methods, including encrypted communication platforms, forged KYC-based SIM cards and GPS-enabled systems, to avoid detection.

Against this backdrop, counter-drone technologies are being developed to provide additional protection around strategic and high-security locations.

Acoustic systems can complement radar and jammers

Experts that spoke to the The Tribune said acoustic-based anti-drone systems are primarily intended for short-range detection, generally covering distances of a few hundred metres. They can be particularly useful in urban or densely built environments where radar-based detection may not work as effectively.

Such systems can provide an additional layer within a multi-tier air defence network. An Air Force officer told The Tribune that acoustic systems are essentially designed for point defence against micro and nano drones and can complement other detection methods, including radar and radio-frequency jammers.

The officer described acoustic sensors as simple, effective and highly mobile, with the ability to detect different types of drones.

System has range and environmental limitations

Acoustic counter-drone technology also has limitations. Its detection range is restricted, while performance can decline in areas with high levels of background noise.

Environmental conditions can also affect the system's effectiveness, including strong winds and unsuitable temperatures. These limitations mean acoustic systems are better suited to complementing other counter-drone technologies rather than serving as a standalone solution.

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CSIO seeks industrial partners

The CSIO technology includes a dual-action capability intended to protect authorised drones operating in the same airspace. Its attack and protection modules work independently and have a modular design that can be integrated into existing commercial off-the-shelf hardware.

The organisation has submitted an expression of interest to scale up the technology for commercialisation and is seeking industrial partners capable of taking the acoustic detector into commercial production and marketing.