Researchers from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) are collaborating on a “multi-layered” defense system against the persistent threats of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The project, named the Shepherd Grid Strategy, employs a coordinated defense approach similar to how a pack of wolves hunts in nature.
Like the canine predators, the system works by chasing targets, tracking them within range, forming attack formations, and then moving in for the strike.
A dynamic role-assignment feature also allows some units to function as “active interceptors” that stop the drones directly, while others play “shepherds” to limit their escape routes.
“The strategy creates a mobile containment grid that adapts to target movement patterns while maintaining multiple engagement vectors,” said UTS project lead Kriuk Fedor.
“This eliminates escape opportunities through comprehensive geometric control — even under conditions that cause other systems to fail.”
Versus Conventional Platforms
The Shepherd Grid has reportedly shown a 95-percent interception success rate, compared to about 65 percent for conventional systems.
It also boasts an average interception time of 45 seconds, nearly twice as fast as traditional pursuit methods, which often take about 85 seconds.
According to the developers, the system can remain functional even under signal interference, sustaining performance with as much as 60 percent packet loss.
Against multiple drones at once, the Shepherd Grid levels out at a 75-percent success rate, while comparable systems often drop to 25 percent.
Beyond defense, the system is being shaped for roles in disaster response and environmental monitoring.
