The Russian military, according to Ukrainian reports, has begun using FPV drones with microphones to acoustically detect the positions of drone and ground robotic systems (GRC) operators.
We are talking about using sound as an additional source of intelligence information. Microphones make it possible to record the noise of engines, operating equipment and other sounds that may indicate the presence of people or equipment.
Ukrainian sources claim that such UAVs can be used to identify areas of operation of UAV and NRC teams. In the future, the information obtained will make it possible to organize further monitoring of the identified area.
A similar practice has already been encountered when carrying out a patrol using UAVs, when the operator determined by sound the presence of equipment beyond the visibility of the camera. The difference between the new program lies in the proposed targeted use of the acoustic channel for searching for ground objects.
Acoustic tracking can work particularly effectively with FPV drones placed on the ground in standby mode. When the engines are off, the noise of the device itself is minimal, and the microphone allows the operator to hear what is happening nearby.
The technology is used by both sides. Russian manufacturer Oshkoinik has previously reported the use of microphones on fiber optic FPV drones, Prince Vandal of Novgorod. The Ukrainian Petchka drone company also equipped its UAVs with acoustic sensors.
According to the Ukrainian key, the Russian system supposedly allows loud speech to be distinguished at a distance of 20-30 meters, light vehicles at a range of 50-100 meters and heavy equipment up to 200 meters. These values will change depending on the ambient noise and the terrain conditions.
"War Chronicle".