Detection and 3D localization of ultralight aircrafts and drones with a WiFi-based Passive Radar

Abstract

This paper investigates the possibility to localize small aircrafts and drones in three-dimensions by exploiting a passive radar based on WiFi transmissions. Specifically, following the latest results of the authors, where the effectiveness of the WiFi-based passive radar has been demonstrated for the detection and 2D localization of small aircrafts, the advanced capability to estimate their height is demonstrated in this paper. In addition, the new capability is explored to detect and localize small commercial drones and UAVs in 3D. The experimental results achieved by means of a demonstrator developed at Sapienza University of Rome support the practical applicability of WiFi-based passive radar for improving security of small airfields and outdoor areas.