Detecting, Engaging, and Evading Detection from Unmanned Aerial Systems - Field Trials and Scenario-Based Exercises

Authors:

  • Per Wikberg
  • Christina Grönwall
  • Josef Johansson
  • Mikael Lyth
  • Jonathan Svensson
  • Daniel Svedbrand

Publish date: 2026-03-09

Report number: FOI-R--5883--SE

Pages: 33

Written in: Swedish

Keywords:

  • C-UAS
  • drones
  • unmanned systems
  • detection
  • engagement
  • avoiding detection
  • camouflage
  • deception
  • decoys
  • small-arms air defence
  • sensors
  • field trials
  • scenario-based exercises

Abstract

This report summarizes the field trials and scenario-based exercises conducted September 25th to 28th as a part of the Demo UCAV project, a collaboration between the Swedish Armed Forces, The Swedish Material Administration (FMV) and the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI). The purpose of the trials was to improve understanding of fundamental C-UAS capabilities, focusing on detecting, countering, and avoiding detection from unmanned systems. Over three days, practical experiments were carried out using man-portable sensors, passive camera systems and various types of UAVs to study detection performance, the effect of small-arms fire, and the impact of camouflage and decoys. The results formed the basis for scenario-based workshops in which three types of units, mechanized, artillery and ranger battalions, were used to analyse how C-UAS capabilities can be integrated and optimized at battalion level. The trials show that effective C-UAS requires a combination of technical systems, training and tactics, as well as robust information sharing between units. Small-arms air defence is assessed to constitute a possible complementary layer in a layered defence but requires further study. Camouflage and deception are identified as essential for survivability in a drone-dominated operational environment. The report also highlights the need for continued development of sensors, methods and realistic training.