A Simulation of Directional Antenna System for UAV Detection Using Radio Frequency Signals

Authors

  • Watcharapong Ketpan Electrical Engineering Department, Electrical and Civil Engineering Division, Academic Faculty, Navaminda Kasatriyadhiraj Royal Air Force Academy
  • Krongboon Singhanat Electrical Engineering Department, Electrical and Civil Engineering Division, Academic Faculty, Navaminda Kasatriyadhiraj Royal Air Force Academy

Keywords:

UAV Detection, Directional Antenna, Signal Processing, Simulation

Abstract

This research presented a directional antenna system model for the detection and localization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) using radio frequency signals. The study employed MATLAB-based simulation techniques for Radiation Pattern analysis to construct and evaluate the antenna's reception characteristics. The simulation results demonstrated the system's precise capability in detecting and determining the direction of a UAV. The location of the signal source was confirmed through the analysis of Signal Strength relative to the rotation of the simulated antenna.

The analysis was conducted across four primary simulation scenarios: Static Homogeneous, Dynamic Homogeneous, Static Heterogeneous, and Dynamic Heterogeneous antenna configurations. Simulation results from 100 trials for each model indicated that the Static Homogeneous model achieved the highest average detection efficiency at 34.9755%, while the Dynamic Heterogeneous model performed best among heterogeneous types with an efficiency of 24.5276%. The study concluded that an appropriately configured static arrangement of homogeneous antennas was the most effective approach to enhance the probability of UAV detection under the simulated parameters. This research provided a crucial foundation for the future design and evaluation of anti-drone defense systems and was highly beneficial for developing surveillance or alert systems in critical areas, such as airports or military installations.

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Published

2026-05-07

How to Cite

[1]
W. Ketpan and K. . Singhanat, “A Simulation of Directional Antenna System for UAV Detection Using Radio Frequency Signals”, NKRAFA J.Sci Technol., vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 249–274, May 2026.

Issue

Vol. 22 No. 2 (2026): July - December (In Progress)

Section

Research Articles

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