Video podcast SDRC «The multilayered challenge of drone defence»
The Swiss Drone and Robotics Centre SDRC of armasuisse Science and Technology (S+T) has created a video podcast on the topic «The multilayered challenge of drone defence», together with the Digital Society Initiative (DSI) of the University of Zurich. In this podcast, the subject of drone defence against small drones is dealt with in seven episodes. Noemi Schenk from the SDRC moderates throughout the individual episodes, in which experts from the areas of drone defence, technology, legal matters and military contribute their knowledge. The goal of this project is to examine various different areas of these drones and to obtain an overview of this topical issue. This video podcast was supported by Prof. Markus Christen, DSI, as well as the Multimedia & E-Learning Services (MELS) of the University of Zurich.
Introduction to drone defence
As an introduction to the project «The multilayered challenge of drone defence», the topic of drones, their rapid social diffusion and their defence are explained in more detail. The SDRC functions in a supportive role with the experts Dr Mark Höpflinger (Head of SDRC) and Joe Boucher (scientific project manager SDRC).
Technology and technological development – introduction
In the first episode, «Technology and technological development», the development of drone technology is examined. Current drone technology is then discussed and possible developments for the future, such as swarm technology, are explained. Prof. Dr Roland Siegwart from the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS) at ETH Zurich appears as an expert.
Technologies and technological development – opportunities and hazards
The second podcast episode considers drone technology and its development, and explains the opportunities and hazards in the use of small drones. Opportunities are recognised in the fact that the risk for persons can be minimised by, for example, deploying drones in rescue operations. Hazards, for example, are seen in the technology itself as well as in abusive application. Here too, the expertise of Prof. Dr Roland Siegwart from the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS) at ETH Zurich is called on.
Legal aspects of drone defence
There are legal issues surrounding the use of small drones. This has led to the fact that the rules and regulations for these small systems have increased. Despite these regulations, rights such as personal privacy and data protection, criminal law and property rights can still be violated. Sandra Bodmer, Head of Section - UAS authorisation and oversight of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), explains these aspects as an expert.
Challenges in drone defence - general drone technology and its defence
In the first studio episode with Major General René Wellinger from Land Forces Command, the general focus was on the use and defence against small drones. Here, experiences from current war and crisis regions were also discussed.
Challenges in drone defence - deployment and defence against drone technology in Land Forces Command
In the second episode with Major General René Wellinger, Land Forces Command was used as an application example. Specifically, it demonstrated how drones are used and what their future role in the Land Forces might be.
Challenges in drone defence - Conclusions of the SDRC
Defence against small drones is a topical issue which needs to be continuously observed due to the rapid development. Joe Boucher, scientific project manager at the SDRC, summarises the most important aspects from the video podcast episodes in his conclusion. From his perspective, drone defence consists of more than just eliminating such systems. Various interesting points that were addressed in the video podcast series are now to be analysed, scrutinised and followed up together with partners.