Countering unmanned aerial systems

Counter-UAS covers the detection, tracking, identification and neutralisation of hostile drones. The problem is difficult because small drones fly low and slow, present a tiny radar signature, and cost a fraction of the missiles conventionally used to shoot down aircraft — so destroying them with expensive interceptors is economically unsustainable. Responses therefore range from electronic means such as jamming the control link or spoofing satellite navigation, through directed energy, to gun-based engagement. Using helicopters in this role exploits their ability to fly low and slow enough to engage targets that fast jets cannot easily track.