Fraunhofer IDMT Unveils Acoustic Sensor for Drone Detection

The Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology (IDMT) in Oldenburg, Germany, has presented an acoustic sensor system capable of detecting and localising drones without a direct line of sight. The technology is intended to complement existing radar, camera and LiDAR solutions for protecting security‑critical sites such as airports, large public events and critical infrastructure. Researchers explained the system’s principle of listening for the distinctive sound signatures of drone rotors and using advanced signal processing to pinpoint their position, even when visual contact is obstructed.

The institute highlighted potential deployment scenarios and outlined next steps toward commercialisation, emphasizing the growing concern over unauthorised drone activity in sensitive areas. The acoustic approach offers a low‑cost, non‑visual detection layer that could enhance overall situational awareness for security authorities.