MyDefence drone detector expands range as drones hide in the spectrum

In a bid to evade electronic warfare, which is still the primary means of combatting drones, users are seeking out new parts of the electromagnetic spectrum to evade jamming. MyDefence has advanced its drone detector technology to help find them. 

MyDefence has released details of its WideBand eXtended Frequency (XF) antenna, which expands the capabilities of the company’s Wingman drone detector system from 200 MHz to 6GHz. This is an extensive range within the spectrum; 200 MHz is used for a variety of things including amateur radio in the US and Canada and some microphones use it among other applications. Mobile phone and WiFi networks, which are frequently used for drone control, operate at from 600 MHz through to 6 GHz.

“This development comes directly from operational lessons learned: with more than 2000 Wingman units already deployed in Ukraine, frontline soldiers have identified the urgent need to detect drones operating outside traditional commercial frequency bands,” the October 8 press release states.

It adds that Russia is using lower frequencies to evade detection and jamming. At the same time, it is employing higher frequencies for video and command links, which is understandable as they provide the highest bandwidth. However, it is worth noting that the strength of the signal, not just its frequency is key. 

The company’s WideBand XF antenna is designed to be compatible with the Wingman drone detector and it can be integrated into the Android Tactical Awareness Kit (ATAK). It includes a spectrum analyser that “enables operators to visualize, identify, and track wireless signals across a wide frequency range, including those emitted by drones and other wireless-enabled equipment,” the press release states. 

Tech profile: WideBand eXtended Frequency (XF) antenna

The WideBand eXtended Frequency (XF) antenna is designed to be soldier-portable and provide omnidirectional detection. Its integration with ATAK allows operators to visualise and geospatially map potential threats instantly, enabling faster, data-driven decisions and automated responses in complex, contested environments. The system also functions as a spectrum analyser to track and identify various wireless signals.

The compact, rugged form factor (with an IP67 rating) and low-power draw (powered directly from the Wingman unit) ensure it is highly deployable and reliable in harsh operational environments. The antenna also includes an internal Compass, GNSS-receiver, and Inertia Measurement Unit to enhance situational awareness and provide accurate geo-referencing of detected threats.

Key Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 200 MHz−6 GHz
• Polarization: Linear Vertical
• Azimuth Coverage: 360° (Omnidirectional)
• Compatibility: MyDefence Wingman (WM100, WM103, WM104, WM105) and ATAK (Android Tactical Awareness Kit)
• Power Supply: Powered from Wingman unit
• Operating Temperature Range: −32°C to +65°C
• Integrated Sensors: Compass, GNSS-receiver, and Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU)

Calibre comment: Innovation in drone detection

Expanding the detection channels of a drone detection system and responding rapidly to evolving threats has been key in Ukraine. There is a cat-and-mouse game occurring between both sides as drone developers seek out new radio frequency channels to run their drones and evade electronic warfare. This has seen the use of the spectrum rapidly expand out of the traditional channels used at the start of the war. Kara Dag Technologies is working on drone detectors that operate up to 12 GHz, for example, with multiple simultaneous detection channels. A central element of this development process is innovation and close coordination and cooperation with the users. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, published on October 9, 2025. The lead image shows the WideBand eXtended Frequency (XF) antenna carried by a user. Credit: MyDefence.