Low-Cost Open Source EW Drone

The modern battlefield is full of radio frequency (RF) transmissions and electronic warfare (EW) has become a significant topic of interest especially as we begin to face near-peer threats. There are a number of commercially available software-defined radios which can measure and  log RF signatures on the battlefield. This project seeks to transform the landscape of electromagnetic surveying through the development of a high-speed, low-cost unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that leverages software-defined radios (SDR) and Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft technology. Our approach combines open-source SDRs, multiple antennas, and an onboard edge processor for real-time signal identification and tagging. By incorporating a VTOL aircraft for its speed and ability to cover large areas quickly, our UAV design is primed to overcome the inherent limitations of traditional multicopters. Furthermore, our proposal includes exploring advanced techniques such as Pseudo-Doppler direction finding (DFing) and potential implementation of optical communication solutions for interference-free operation and GPS-denied geolocation of signals. This project presents an innovative solution to enhance the efficacy of electromagnetic surveying, promising significant benefits to military intelligence, environmental monitoring, and resource exploration activities.