Pocket Radio Intelligence. What are drone detectors, how do they save lives on the frontline, and how to choose the right one?
"Tsukorok", "Chuyka", "Dzyga", "Vidik" – they have different names, but the task is the same: to timely warn the fighter about the approach of a drone. These detectors analyze radio frequencies in a certain radius and warn if an object is moving in the sky, emitting a signal characteristic of strike or reconnaissance drones.
The seconds gained by these portable devices give a fighter a chance to orient themselves, find cover, or prepare for an attack.
Despite the widespread use of such devices, they are chronically in short supply on the front lines. Russian drone operators are constantly adapting, changing operating frequencies, forcing Ukrainian defenders to upgrade or replace detectors to keep them functioning.
The wide range of detectors on the market creates certain difficulties - without a clear understanding of their functions, it is possible to choose a low-quality device or one with incorrect characteristics. As a result, when a drone approaches, a fighter will not notice it in time, and when the sound is heard, it will be too late.
Previously, Defense wrote about the "last-resort" means of protection against enemy FPV drones: net guns, rifles, special cartridges. Now we explain how portable drone detectors work and how to choose the right one among them.
What is a drone detector?
This is a device designed to provide timely warning to the military about a drone attack. Its main advantage is its simplicity: you can learn to use the detector in half an hour, many models have only one button – ON/OFF. The device itself fits in your pocket.
"Essentially, it's a radio receiver with its own processor and software that analyzes the signals around it and reports danger when it notices something," explains an instructor pilot with the call sign "Rudel" to Defense.
However, it is important to note that such detectors are not capable of detecting fiber-optic drones, which do not emit any signals.
The Defense Forces use radio frequency detectors that are tuned to frequency ranges popular with Russians.
"At the beginning of the war, 900 MHz was used, and later the range expanded from 150 to 1100 MHz," the Defense clarified at the Separate Special Electronic Support Center (OSCEP).
One of the first detectors was "Tsukorok" – it reacts to the frequencies at which the drone is controlled. It is able to detect reconnaissance wings, but not FPV drones, since the latter only receive, not emit, a signal at these frequencies.
"All aircraft fly at control frequencies of 150 – 1100 MHz. But if "Orlan" or "Zala" themselves emit a signal of such a frequency to transmit important data to the operator, and the detector is able to detect it, then FPV usually does not do this," adds "Rudel".
Therefore, video detectors are increasingly being used to counter FPV drones. They intercept the video signal from the drone, which is transmitted on other frequencies. Such detectors display on their screen the image that the enemy operator sees. This allows you to understand in real time where the device is, where it is moving and whether it poses a threat.
Such devices are larger and more expensive than "Tsukorok", but they are able to work with frequency ranges for video transmission – 1.2 and 5.8 GHz (recently, more often - 2.3 or 3.3 GHz). Detectors limited to only 1.2 and 5.8 GHz will not be able to track other frequencies without additional modules and antennas.
However, video detectors cannot intercept the signal from the Mavics, as they operate with a digital transmitter at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The digital signal is encrypted, so it is impossible to see the image. At the same time, the very fact of the drone's flight remains noticeable – and some detector models are able to record its presence.
The choice of detector directly depends on which frequencies prevail on a particular section of the front. "The enemy is constantly changing frequencies, so devices that can quickly adapt are needed," OSCEP warns.
Technically, most detectors are similar: "The physical component is almost the same, but in the case of video detectors, the key is how many frequency ranges they cover," explains Innokenty Razumov, a consultant to the Come Back Alive Foundation.
The quality of a detector depends on the manufacturer: how well-thought-out the assembly is, whether the firmware is regularly updated, how resistant the device is to false signals, and how quickly it scans the airwaves. These are the factors that determine whether the device can save a soldier's life at a critical moment.
Manufacturers are constantly improving detectors, expanding their operating frequency ranges and making the devices more efficient, convenient, and reliable.
For example, previously, "Tsukorok" was able to track mostly only wings. Now it is also able to detect "Mavics" operating at a frequency of 2.4 GHz.
Similarly, video detectors: previously they worked mainly with the 1.2 and 5.8 GHz bands, but with the spread of drones at a frequency of 3.3 GHz, manufacturers began to add this spectrum as well. Parallel scanning of several frequencies was possible, and filtering systems became more accurate, which helps to filter out false signals.
How to choose a drone detector?
Choosing a drone detector depends not only on price or manufacturer, but primarily on the conditions in which it will operate.
Whether it is individual use or collective use – for example, on a position or mounted on a vehicle. All these factors need to be calculated in advance, because it depends on how effective the device will be in real combat conditions.
Equally important is the issue of frequencies. Each detector has its own, pre-set ranges, and the chance of detecting a drone in time directly depends on their width.
For example, WHOOVER 2 has an extended 1.2 GHz range (820–1820 MHz), while its previous version covered only 900–1700 MHz. The difference seems insignificant, but in practice it means a greater probability of detecting a threat, because enemy drones may be on the "new" frequencies.
Before choosing a drone detector, you need to clearly understand what frequencies it operates on and how many ranges it can cover. This is what determines whether the device will be able to warn of a threat in time. Manufacturers usually indicate these parameters.
For example, BlueBird produces "Chuyka" detectors in two versions – 2.0 and 3.0. If the previous model works only with the standard 1.2 and 5.8 GHz bands, then the newer 3.0 additionally covers 3.3 GHz. This is an important detail, because FPV drones are increasingly appearing on the front, switching to this frequency, while 1.2 GHz is gradually fading into the background.
To choose the right detector, military personnel are advised to contact specialists from radio engineering units or experienced drone pilots.
Openly available information can also be useful - for example, military consultant Serhii Flesh regularly shares his observations on the use of frequencies in the Telegram channel and tests new detectors appearing on the Ukrainian market.
It is equally important to understand the conditions in which the detector will operate. Some models are convenient to mount on a car, while others are better suited for dugouts and allow the antennas to be carried separately.
"Some position themselves as automotive, and they are downright huge with magnetic holders on the antennas. On the contrary, there are small, individual ones, like the PDA in STALKER 2," says Razumov from Come Back Alive.
Since the device must operate continuously, the issues of charging and the availability of replaceable batteries become critically important. The accuracy of its operation directly depends on this.
Like any modern electronics, detectors require regular firmware updates.
It is able to expand detection ranges, improve energy efficiency, optimize operation, and make the interface more convenient. "In any case, it is worth monitoring updates, but only official ones from the manufacturer," OSCEP emphasizes.
The detector's operating range is determined by its antennas and signal strength.
"The conventional 'Tsukorok' is capable of detecting a drone at a distance of up to 500 meters if its telemetry is turned on. But with 'Chuyka' we caught the device at 2-3 kilometers," says the instructor with the call sign "Rudel".
External factors significantly affect the operation of detectors: power lines, metal structures, or even a person nearby can distort the signal. That is why it is so important to install antennas in a "clean" place where nothing will interfere with their operation.
Ultimately, choosing a detector often comes down to two key things: the number of frequencies it operates on and ease of use. Some military personnel combine different detectors to achieve better results.
"We use both 'Tsukorok' and 'Dzyga'. The frequencies are constantly changing back and forth, and together they give about 90% that the drone will be spotted," a Stinger fighter, the operator of the Vampire drone, told Defense.
Working with the detector
The devices are designed to scan radio frequencies immediately after being turned on, but there are still some nuances. "The first thing you should do after receiving the detector is to check the antennas with an analyzer, because the quality of the signal depends on their serviceability. If you don't have experience, you can always ask your fellow radio technicians for help," advises "Rudel."
Manufacturers recommend updating the firmware immediately: while the detector was on the front line, the frequency range could have changed, and the software should remain up to date.
Manufacturers note that the most common problems arise due to strong "radio noise" or improper fastening of the device - especially among beginners.
To avoid this, companies publish video instructions, create manuals, and provide technical support. "Fighters need to understand that they are not left alone with the equipment," BlueBird says.
Partnerships between manufacturers and the military are crucial both on the battlefield and in business. "A manufacturer that does not communicate directly with the front will not last long on the market. People simply stop buying its products," Razumov concludes.
But it's worth remembering: the drone detector is only an auxiliary tool.
It can increase a soldier's chances of survival on the battlefield, just like protective nets, electronic warfare equipment, or last-resort weapons. All of these elements work effectively only when they form a single system, the heart of which remains people. Coordination of units, clear communication, and proper training are what make equipment truly useful.
"It would be good if during basic training the military were immediately taught to use detectors, but the BZVP cannot cover everything," explains Razumov. "At the same time, there are sergeant courses, and if this element were included there, the sergeants could later train their units."
Drone detectors have become an important part of the security system on the frontline, as they give a soldier the most valuable thing - a few seconds to react. This is a chance to hide in time, change position, or prepare when the threat is already close.
In a situation where life may depend on a momentary decision, such a device becomes an individual means of survival.
However, even a simple-to-use detector requires attention: proper setup, knowledge of frequencies, and understanding how it works in specific conditions. Therefore, it is important not only to provide the military with equipment, but also to teach them how to use it correctly. After all, it is knowledge combined with equipment that gives a real chance to save lives.