Rostec develops passive radar to detect silent drones

The Russian technology corporation Rostec has developed a passive radar system designed to detect small, silent drones that are typically invisible to electronic reconnaissance and radar-sensing missiles.

Unlike traditional radar, this system does not emit signals, which prevents it from revealing its own location. Instead, it utilizes reflected signals from external sources, such as ground-based television and radio broadcasting stations. By processing changes in these reflected waves, the system can identify moving objects, calculate their coordinates, and track drones even if they have disabled all communication, jamming, and satellite navigation equipment.

The system is designed to be lightweight, weighing only 180 kg, and does not interfere with civilian equipment. This allows for deployment in urban areas and near airports without disrupting normal communications. When integrated with radio monitoring and electronic warfare tools, the radar can provide immediate target data to air defense and electronic warfare units.