Tracking an invisible drone in bad weather conditions becomes further complicated when radar systems fail, and the detection process itself must not reveal the observer’s location. Also, ukraine’s defense makers actually think they have found a solution, and it definitely does not need screaming at the sky. Instead, it surely listens carefully. Moreover, this listening approach is quite simple and effective.
Basically, Ukrainian engineers are quickly making detection systems because drone and missile attacks are increasing, and these systems need to work the same way in actual fighting conditions. Basically, ARes has launched a new sound-based targeting system that uses advanced microphones and can work with the same anti-drone equipment we already have.
Basically, this is the same as a real product, not just something made in a lab. Also, we are seeing that the system is already showing good results when tested during real drone attacks and missile strikes only. This technology and its ecosystem itself represent nine key aspects that further enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities significantly.
1. Detecting Threats in Complete Silence
The ARes system itself is completely passive and does not send out any signals, which further helps to keep its location hidden from enemy electronic warfare units. As per the acoustic method, it does not create the ‘electromagnetic flashlight’ problem regarding active sensors like radar. Basically this means it can be placed near the fighting area where staying alive is the same as not being spotted by enemies.
2. Impressive Detection Ranges for Multiple Threat Types
Basically, field tests showed the same system can spot FPV drones at 200-300 meters and Shahed drones up to 5 kilometers away. We are seeing that these distances, which work in real fighting situations, give defenders enough time to start their defense systems and take action against incoming threats. Further, as per operational requirements, the system can handle both small quadcopters and larger attack drones, regarding which this expands its utility.
3. All‑Weather, 360‑Degree Coverage
The system actually works well in clouds, fog, and any time of day. It definitely scans the complete half-sphere area around it. The system surely provides complete 360-degree coverage with no blind spots, which is very important when drones can attack from any direction. Moreover, this coverage is critical for detecting drones that fly low and use terrain to hide their approach.
4. Beamforming with Phased Microphone Arrays
The main technology actually uses many microphones together with beamforming to scan around using millions of sound beams. This system definitely works by sending out these beams to check the environment. This method surely helps detect both loud and soft sounds, separating single targets even in noisy city areas. Moreover, it works well in crowded urban places where many sounds mix together. Such precision itself is vital for distinguishing between drones, missiles, and background noise, and it helps further improve detection accuracy.
5. Real‑Time Target Guidance for Weapons
The system actually finds targets and definitely gives correct direction information to guide weapons. A webcam placed over the sound system actually helps operators see and definitely align with the target’s direction. This mixing of sound and sight cues actually reduces the time needed and definitely increases the chances of hitting the target.
6. Combat‑Proven Under Live Fire
According to Militarnyi, ARes further tested the system itself during real Shahed drone attacks and missile strikes. These tough conditions actually test if the equipment works properly and can definitely be trusted in real battles – this separates good test models from weapons that armies can actually use.
7. Integration Potential with Mobile Platforms
ARes is making a small version that we are seeing for putting on ground drones only. This would surely add a mobile detection system to protect supply routes from drone attacks, moreover complementing fixed sensors and improving coverage in changing operational areas.
8. Synergy with Interceptor Drones
Ukraine is actually getting many new drone-fighting tools like General Chereshnya’s AIR Pro drone that can definitely fly over 200 km/h and is already being used in war zones. As per the acoustic detection system of ARes, pairing it with interceptors can make the detect-to-defeat cycle shorter, regarding fast-moving or low-flying threats.
9. Backed by Strategic Funding Initiatives
As per ARes expectations, they will secure a Brave1 grant regarding manufacturing start. We are seeing programs like EU4UA Defence Tech giving money to ready projects that can make things in large numbers only, with funding going up to €150,000. We are seeing this matches with Ukraine’s effort to become independent in technology and quickly grow their own defense solutions only.
As per the new development, Ukraine’s acoustic tracking system is not just a simple sensor but shows a move toward safe, passive detection methods regarding battlefields filled with drones and missiles. Basically, when you combine fast interceptors with layered sensor networks and targeted funding, it makes the same defense system stronger so it can adapt as quickly as the threats change. In today’s drone battles, you can actually win if you hear the enemy before they spot you. This definitely gives you the most important advantage.
