A New Acoustic Warning System for Drone Detection Developed in Ukraine

In a significant technological breakthrough, Ukraine has developed a new acoustic warning system that enhances the detection of drones. This innovative system enables mobile fire groups to pinpoint the exact moment and location of a drone's appearance, which is crucial in the current wartime environment.

In an interview with NV, Alexander Kardakov, the founder of Octava Capital and an IT millionaire, explained that the development of this new system was a response to the needs that emerged in Ukraine two to three years ago, when the initial version of acoustic warning was implemented. At that time, this system was highly relevant as it provided a general overview of aerial activities based on sound signals and visual observations.

“We have developed the next generation of detection systems, where sensors feature a grid of seven microphones and are combined into fields covering hundreds of square kilometers,” Kardakov stated. According to him, the new system employs triangulation of data from dozens of sensors, allowing for precise identification of the sound source. When the source moves, the system recalculates angles to track the object along its trajectory. This means that the mobile fire group already knows the exact second and location from which the drone will appear.

Kardakov also emphasized that this technology allows drone interceptors to activate their radar in time and launch their drones before they are visible on their radar. Discussing the effectiveness of the new technology, he noted, “It achieves 100% detection accuracy with a margin of error of 3-5%.” However, he acknowledged that it is currently challenging to compare this system with other existing technologies, as previously there was only a warning system that indicated that “something flew by somewhere.” He stressed that the new system is not a universal solution and should work in conjunction with radars and other detection systems.

Kardakov elaborated on how the mobile fire group operates with acoustic sensors. The primary task is to deploy a strip at least 10 kilometers wide, positioned 30-40 kilometers away from them. This setup allows for timely detection of approaching objects, as well as knowledge of their speed, direction, and target. “This is the essence of acoustic detection. It is precise preparation. We deploy such an area, and within 2-3 weeks, everything operates very effectively. Our enemies calculate this area and begin to circumvent it,” he noted.

He also revealed information about the budget for such a “strip”: “We can cover 70 square kilometers for approximately $50,000. This involves 10 sensors that tightly cover these 70 square kilometers. Of course, they need to be connected to the internet and power. They are not mobile; they are stationary with complex software and artificial intelligence. Once installed, they work indefinitely.” Kardakov compared the cost of the acoustic system to radars, which cover slightly more area but cost millions and often malfunction.

Regarding the export potential of such systems, Kardakov mentioned that it exists, albeit only theoretically for now. “There has been interest for a long time, and practical negotiations are just beginning. But it’s still a talking point,” he added. He stated that there are other systems in Ukraine that perform well, but Octava Capital is not trying to compete with them. They are focused on the rapid processing of sound and integrating guidance for mobile fire groups.

Kardakov also shared plans for enhancing the technology, specifically aiming for self-guiding and pre-guiding automatic turrets that the company is already developing. However, he noted that he cannot yet share detailed information about these projects.

It is worth recalling that it was previously reported that Ukraine has achieved a significant breakthrough and can now produce drones with minimal reliance on Chinese components. This indicates the growing independence of the Ukrainian defense industry and its ability to implement cutting-edge technologies in wartime conditions.