Ukraine’s Acoustic UAV Detection System Tested on a Vehicle

Ukraine’s “Zvook” company has conducted the first test of a mobile version of its acoustic unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) detection system as part of NATO’s BATT26 exercise.

Polygonjournal reports, citing Defence Blog, that the tests were conducted jointly with the Latvian National Armed Forces.

It was reported that “Zvook” sensors, which are typically installed on telecommunications towers and other fixed infrastructure, were mounted on a moving vehicle for the first time. Despite some challenges encountered during the vehicle-based testing, the system demonstrated that the concept was viable. The company believes the mobile version could be used in the future to protect convoys, mobile command posts, and military units that frequently change their positions from UAV threats.

The system detects aerial targets by analyzing the distinctive acoustic signatures generated by UAV engines and propellers, without emitting radar signals. This feature reduces the risk of the system being detected by enemy electronic warfare and radar systems.

In Ukraine, “Zvook’s” primary acoustic detection network consists of fixed sensors installed at heights of approximately 10–12 meters. These sensors are used to detect “Shahed”-type UAVs, cruise missiles, and other low-flying aerial targets. Data detected by the system can be transmitted to Ukraine’s “Delta” situational awareness system within approximately 12 seconds.