Low-Cost Real Time Anti-Drone RF Scanner using Switched Array Beamformer

This paper introduces a cost-effective, real-time anti-drone RF scanner system employing a switched array beamformer and AI-driven drone signal analysis. Addressing the surge in unauthorized drone activities, our system combines Radio Frequency (RF) monitoring, AI-based drone detection and identification, and precise direction finding via a switched array beamformer. Utilizing multi-receiver Software-Defined Radio (SDR) platforms, the system offers comprehensive bandwidth coverage for drone signal detection. AI algorithms analyze time-frequency signal patterns to identify drones, while the beamforming array accurately determines their angles of arrival. Experimental results demonstrate the system's ability to detect and identify four drone types with 90% accuracy and pinpoint their direction with an average accuracy within 5 degrees. This research contributes significantly to the field of drone surveillance and security by providing a cost-effective, efficient solution.