Rather than utilizing kinetic ammunition or firing solid projectiles, the Skybeam operates by emitting a targeted cone of concentrated radio frequency (RF) energy.
By Hezy Laing
The rapid proliferation of commercial unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on the modern battlefield and in civil airspace has forced a revolutionary shift toward new counter-drone technologies.
Chief among these systems is the Skybeam, a science-fiction-looking handheld anti-drone gun designed to detect, track, and down hostile remote-piloted aircraft.
Developed by Skylock, a specialized subsidiary of Israeli company Autonomous Guard, this wearable electronic warfare device offers internal security forces and military personnel a highly portable defense system against asymmetric aerial threats.
Weighing just 6 kilograms (13.2 pounds), the futuristic weapon is ergonomically designed to be operated like a standard tactical rifle by a single user.
Rather than utilizing kinetic ammunition or firing solid projectiles, the Skybeam operates by emitting a targeted cone of concentrated radio frequency (RF) energy.
The system features specialized integrated radio modules that disrupt the most common remote-piloted aircraft frequencies.
Once the operator triggers the device toward an incoming drone, the electromagnetic signal instantly jams the UAV’s telemetry, live video transmission, and GPS satellite navigation systems up to a maximum range of 3 kilometers.
The weapon is powered by a replaceable and rechargeable battery that allows for one hour of continuous jamming operation.
When caught in the Skybeam’s electromagnetic field, the target drone loses connection with its remote controller, overrides its pre-programmed path, and initiates an immediate safety mechanism to execute a controlled emergency landing.
This allows ground forces to safely retrieve the intact aircraft for intelligence and forensic analysis.
The technological effectiveness of the Skybeam has driven substantial global market demand.
Autonomous Guard recently secured a $400,000 contract expansion to supply the Skybeam detection and neutralization systems to a regional police force in Asia, building on an initial $200,000 procurement order.
