New drone detection technology tested in Skellefteå

Testing in a real world environment

During May and June, Swedish company NoMeTa tested its system in central Skellefteå, focusing on the area around Skellefteå Hospital. A one kilometre no fly zone surrounds the hospital’s helipad, where drones can pose a safety risk to helicopter traffic. With many Society Expo activities taking place in central Skellefteå and large numbers of people in the area, the location provided relevant conditions for testing the system in a real world environment.

NoMeTa’s Dedalo system detects the radio signals used for communication between a drone and its pilot. The signals can be detected from more than three kilometres away, allowing the system to locate the pilot within seconds and with an accuracy of just a few metres. This makes it possible for relevant authorities to identify and respond to unauthorized drone activity.

Unauthorized flights detected

The test showed recurring drone activity within the restricted airspace around the hospital. According to NoMeTa, the system detected unauthorized flights on most test days, often more than once a day. Such flights not only pose a risk of accidents but can also disrupt urgent helicopter transports to and from the hospital.

“The results show why it is so important to be able to detect drones flying where they should not be. Even when a flight does not lead to an accident, it can have serious consequences if it disrupts critical helicopter transports,” says Richard Bahrke, NoMeTa.

From detection to action

Skellefteå is home to several operations and facilities where drones can pose risks, including the airport, port, mining operations and energy production. Drones can be used for illegal purposes, but even a flight with no malicious intent can create a safety risk if it takes place in the wrong location.

Drone detection can also provide a clearer picture of how many drones are operating in a particular area and help identify recurring flight patterns. But for this information to be useful, clear procedures, training, digital support systems and collaboration between relevant stakeholders are needed to ensure an effective response when an unauthorized drone is detected.

Real world testing provides valuable insights

Arctic Aviation Hub works to create the conditions for the safe and efficient use of drones in society. By enabling testing in real world environments, the initiative can generate new knowledge about how critical infrastructure and other air traffic can be protected as the use of drones continues to grow.

“The technology is an important part of the equation, but what we do with the information once a drone has been detected is just as important. Testing in a real world environment helps us identify the roles, procedures and forms of collaboration that need to be in place for drone detection to work effectively in practice,” says Henrik Littorin, Programme Manager at Arctic Aviation Hub.

Knowledge that can be applied elsewhere

For Skellefteå and the participating organisations, the test provides an opportunity to build knowledge and preparedness around a growing security challenge. For NoMeTa, it offers a chance to further develop and validate its solution under real world conditions.

The lessons learned can ultimately contribute to solutions and working methods that can be applied in other locations as well.