How Prisons Can Create an Effective Drone Detection System

If you work in the prison system, evidence of drones delivering contraband to your facility has heightened your security concerns. Fortunately, recent technological advances have made high- performance drone detection systems much more affordable and accessible.

The Need for a Reliable Drone Detection System

Correctional facilities face increasing threats from contraband deliveries via drones. Traditional methods like cameras can be ineffective, especially in poor weather or low-light conditions. Criminals exploit these weaknesses, often flying drones at night to avoid detection.

Many state agencies and private corrections providers have tried using RF sensors to detect drones. However, "dark drones" that do not emit detectable signals have become widespread. Additionally, criminals can use electronic measures like jamming to blind RF sensors.

Advantages of Drone Detection Radar in a Stack

Drone detection radar is a critical component of a robust drone detection system. Unlike RF sensors, radar can detect all objects moving in the sky, regardless of whether they emit a radio frequency signal. Radar also operates effectively in all weather and lighting conditions, making it essential for night-time detection when many drone deliveries occur. Radar excels in tracking multiple drones simultaneously, crucial for identifying decoy drones used to divert attention from those carrying contraband.

Radar works best when integrated into a layered drone detection and tracking system that includes multiple sensors. Technologically advanced radar for drone detection offers high performance object detection and tracking over extended ranges. Leveraging the additional capabilities of other sensors and systems enhances situational awareness and supports clear decision making.

Here is an example of multiple sensors, their key advantages and how they relate:

• • RF Sensors: Detect some (not all) incoming drones early, providing initial alerts. Multiple RF sensors can cooperatively triangulate the drone’s position. RF sensors can also be effective in determining the location of the pilot.
  • Drone Detection Radar: Radar can make the initial detection or can operate alongside existing RF sensors. Radar locks onto incoming targets and gathers precise data on all drones, including dark drones. High-fidelity radar data is essential for slewing PTZ cameras for “eyes-on” threat confirmation. The high data sharing rate of MESA radar enhances performance of PTZ cameras used in the detection stack.
  • PTZ Cameras: While PTZ cameras can operate independently, their efficiency and effectiveness are greatly improved when slewed by radar data, Cameras provide means on” confirmation of the perceived threat and to gather additional details about the drone – whether it’s carrying contraband, for example.
  • Acoustic Monitoring Sensors - These sensors detect the unique sound signatures of drones, offering an additional layer of detection where RF sensors may face signal interference or radar may encounter terrain limitations. Acoustic sensors are particularly effective in urban environments where visual line-of-sight can be obstructed. They enhance situational awareness by picking up drone noises, ensuring comprehensive coverage. When integrated with other sensors, acoustic monitoring helps create a more robust and reliable drone detection system.

Both radar data and the behavior observed through the camera view can verify patterns of drone activity, aiding in strategic placement of sensors for better monitoring. Depending on the risk profile, and budget, advanced camera analytics and acoustic sensors may round out the stack. All sensors integrate into a command and control (C2) system and/or video management system (VMS) which serve as information consolidators, visualization mediums, and means to record threat activity.

Learn from Experts on Enhancing Prison Security Against Drones

Echodyne recently hosted a LinkedIn Live panel discussion on developing comprehensive drone detection and deterrence programs. The panel featured professionals including a deputy director of operations, drone coordinator, director of prison operations, and senior director for security operations and intelligence.

The discussion covered:

• • Essential sensors for an effective drone detection system.
  • Utilizing correctional teams' own drones for surveillance and deterrence.
  • Strategies for pitching and implementing a drone detection program at your facility.

Implementing a multi-sensor drone detection system is crucial for maintaining security in correctional facilities. By combining technologies like radar, RF sensors, and cameras, you can create a robust defense against contraband deliveries. Collaborating with law enforcement and leveraging expert insights can further enhance your facility’s security posture.

For more detailed insights, check out the transcript of Echodyne's panel discussion on LinkedIn