Russia bolsters Northern defense with 1,000 Yurka drone detectors

As reported by the Russian news agency, TASS, The Special Operations Zone is slated to receive a shipment of one thousand Yurka drone detectors this upcoming February. This exciting announcement comes straight from the Gagarin design bureau.

In affirmation, the bureau stated, “We have already supplied around 1,000 Yurka drone detectors to the Northern Military District [SVO in Russian – ed.]. The technology has demonstrated its remarkable capability throughout several months of service. We began with a trial batch, subsequently followed by a smaller consignment. Come February, we will be dispatching another thousand detectors to the special operations zone [referring to the conflict in Ukraine – ed.]”, Bulgarian Military reports.

A spokesperson for the design bureau detailed the benefits of this game-changing product, revealing that it efficiently thwarts covert approaches made by various civilian helicopters toward Russian fighters. “This unique characteristic considerably reduces the threat of unexpected assaults. The detector has shown effectiveness against drones produced by manufacturers such as Mavic, Autel, and DJI, as well as FPV drones operating on the monitored frequencies. Despite Yurka’s current restrictions to detect all brands of drones, we are resolutely working towards mitigating this problem in our forthcoming product update,” the TASS source concluded.

Recognizing the high-performing nature of the device, representatives from the design bureau shared that the Russian military has expressed satisfaction with the functions of the drone detector. “When it detects an incoming drone, the device promptly provides information about the potential target, enabling combat troops to take the necessary actions. These responses might range from the use of drone suppressors and anti-drone guns to small firearms, or simply seeking cover,” they elaborated.

The representatives also highlighted that several units of the Russian Armed Forces are currently employing this technology. “From the feedback we’ve received, the device has shown impressive effectiveness in protecting our troops,” stated the spokesperson, emphasizing the product’s significant contribution within the military framework.

About Yurka

Boasting a form factor similar to a walkie-talkie, Jurka can detect drones within a 2 km range. “What sets us apart from other similar gadgets in the Russian market is our superior qualitative edge. Yurka offers broader detection capabilities, capable of identifying various drones that operate within our frequency range. Its detection range of up to 2.5 km outperforms competing devices that only function up to 1.5 km away. This innovative device marks a turning point in 100 per cent Russian development with the majority of its components being locally sourced. Both the design and assembly took place entirely on Russian soil,” the developers emphasize.

The Gagarin Design Bureau, established in 2023 and headquartered in Krasnodar, is a celebrated organization specializing in the creation and production of revolutionary electronic warfare and communication equipment.

How does a drone detector work?

Drone detectors, also known as drone detection systems, are devices designed to identify the presence of drones. These systems work by scanning the environment for signals that drones typically emit, such as radio frequencies, Wi-Fi signals, or even the sound of the drone’s propellers. Once these signals are detected, the system alerts the user to the drone’s presence.

FPV, or First Person View, drone detectors operate similarly but are specifically crafted to detect drones equipped with FPV technology. FPV technology enables drone pilots to control and navigate their drones from a first-person perspective, almost as if they were sitting in the drone’s cockpit. They accomplish this by transmitting live video footage from a camera on the drone to a screen or pair of goggles worn by the pilot.

FPV drone detectors pinpoint the unique signals that FPV drones emit, typically in the form of video feed transmissions. Upon identifying these specific frequencies, the detector alerts the user. This attention to detail enables the user to not only that a drone is in the vicinity but also that it is an FPV drone.

Drone detectors in civilian life

Drone detectors, including FPV drone detectors, are becoming increasingly crucial due to the surge in drone usage. They are employed in various settings, ranging from airports and prisons to private properties, to maintain security and privacy. By detecting the presence of drones, these systems can aid in averting unauthorized drone activity and potential threats.

However, it’s essential to understand that while drone detectors are adept at identifying the presence of drones, they cannot neutralize or control them. For this task, other systems termed as drone jammers or drone killers are leveraged, which can disrupt the drone’s signals, compelling it to land or revert to its point of origin.