Drone Detection & Airspace Security Glossary

Drone detection via microphone-based sensor(s) that detect sound patterns attributed to drones’ motors or propellers.

Radar systems emit short pulses of radio waves that reflect off objects. The reflections are measured to detect, characterize, and track airborne objects. The frequency used by the radar will impact range and target resolution. For example, a long-range radar used to detect large objects such as aircraft will use a lower frequency than a radar designed to detect small objects such as sUAS. The higher frequency will have the ability to pick up small fluctuations created by spinning rotors, but will have a much shorter range and be more impacted by weather and environmental clutter, such as birds.

A surveillance technology used in manned aviation that automatically broadcasts an aircraft’s position, velocity, and identification information to ground stations and nearby aircraft to improve airspace safety and situational awareness.

The next evolution of aviation that uses new technologies (like electric or hybrid propulsion, automation, and vertical takeoff/landing) to create safer, cleaner, and more efficient air transportation systems.

FAA-issued authorization allowing specific drone operations outside standard Part 107 rules.

Refers to antennas or sensors that receive or transmit signals in a cone. Directional antennas are often deployed in an array that may cover 360 degrees.

High-powered energy systems (such as lasers or microwave beams) are designed to disable or destroy drones in flight. Requires significant regulatory oversight and is typically restricted to military or specialized federal use.

Drone Detection is about awareness, intelligence and commonly refers to systems that do more than just detect. Using technologies like RF, radar, cameras, or acoustics, systems identify, locate, and track drones—and often their pilots—in or near protected airspace. This awareness enables agencies to assess potential threats, coordinate responses, and take informed action.

A drone designed to intercept and neutralize unauthorized drones, often using nets or other mechanisms. Requires an advanced waiver from FAA regulations to operate.

FAA regulations governing small commercial drone operations, including licensing and operational limits.

FAA rule requiring drones to broadcast identification information. The information required to be broadcast includes, but is not limited to, an ID (typically serial number), drone location and altitude, pilot location, speed every one second while in flight. Third-party devices that range from consumer cell phone apps to commercial long-range sensors receive the drones’ Remote ID broadcasts.

A system for managing drone traffic in low-altitude airspace to ensure safety and coordination.

When a system does not alarm the presence of a target that does exist.

When a system mistakenly alarms the presence of a target that does not actually exist.

A permanently installed sensor that monitors drones at a specific location.

A software feature that restricts drones from entering certain airspace, such as airports or military zones. DJI replaced the geofencing system—previously preventing takeoff or flight in restricted airspace—with “Enhanced Warning Zones”. These zones now simply warn operators but do not block flights.

Detection systems that rely on a preloaded database of drone signatures.

A sensor that can be mounted in a vehicle or platform that can be relocated. Certain sensors may operate only while stationary others may operate in motion.

A physical method of capturing drones by entangling them in a net, either from the ground or air. Requires an advanced waiver from FAA regulations to operate.

Designated areas where drone flights are restricted by law, regulation, or technological enforcement. While the FAA strictly controls flight zones, organizations can pass laws to control sUAS take-off and landing areas.

The process of receiving and analyzing nonpublic radio frequency communications between a drone and its controller. Systems that extract private signal content or inspect nonpublic telemetry generally require specific authorization or legal relief under federal wiretap laws. Because this approach relies on prior knowledge of specific signal protocols, encryption or modulation updates by manufacturers can disrupt detection.

Spectrum Sensing RF detection refers to technology that passively monitors the RF spectrum to identify drone activity. Spectrum Sensing RF systems analyze physical RF signal characteristics to detect the presence of drone signals. Once a signal is detected, geolocation may take place with other methods such as triangulation/trilateration. Some systems use directional antennas to perform Direction Finding (DF).

A sensor that can be easily relocated, typically by one person. The sensor is suitable for stationary operation, generally on a rooftop or tripod.

Federal legislation expanding limited counter-UAS authority to certified state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) law enforcement and correctional agencies to detect, track, and mitigate unauthorized drone threats under strict DOJ and DHS guidelines.

Multiple sensors working together to detect, track, and identify drones.

Commercial-type drones under 55 lbs (per FAA). Military branches use the term “sUAS” versus “UAS” to distinguish them from larger military platforms.

FAA-issued restrictions that prohibit drone flights in specific areas during events or emergencies. Note that some TFRs are permanent in nature.

A system consisting of the drone, its ground-based controller, and communication links between the two. UAS may be piloted remotely or operate autonomously.

A specific type of aircraft that operates without a human pilot on board. Often called a drone, UAVs may be remotely piloted or autonomous.