Polish scientists at Gdańsk University of Technology have developed a way to neutralize drones without the mess of physical explosions, creating a system they call an “invisible shield.”
The system, named STRATUS, emits short, high-intensity electromagnetic pulses that disrupt the electronic components of hostile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
It uses an advanced effector to enable precise control of pulse strength, keeping voltages at safe levels for operators.
The tech is envisioned to protect critical infrastructure like airports, power plants, military bases, and other public areas that could be prone to drone attacks.
Though not yet operational in the field, the development team said STRATUS has already completed successful lab tests under controlled conditions.
Holding the Fort
STRATUS development comes as Poland rolls out a 2-billion euro ($2.3-billion) program to fortify its eastern borders with next-gen anti-drone tech.
Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk said the project will be completed in 24 months and is set to complement older systems that have been in service for over a decade.
“Some of this is for use only in extreme or war conditions. For example, these multi-barrel machine guns are difficult to use in peacetime, because everything that goes up must go down,” Tomczyk told The Guardian.
The STRATUS project has received more than 5 million euros ($5.8 million) in funding from Poland’s National Centre for Research and Development.
