The drone detection market has matured rapidly since 2018. It now gathers a hundred or so manufacturers worldwide across four main technology families, with very different positionings. Here is a frank tour.
The four technology families
Radio-frequency detection (RF) — passive scanning of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ISM and Remote ID. Low installation cost, no transmit authorisation for passive systems, excellent identification of cooperative drones.
Radar detection — dedicated micro-Doppler radars for small drones. Strong on non-cooperative drones (home-made, RF-silent), but more expensive, larger, subject to transmit licensing and sensitive to clutter.
Electro-optical (visible + thermal IR cameras) — useful for verification and documentation, of little value for initial detection in urban environments.
Acoustic detection — short range, sensitive to ambient noise, mostly used as a complement in quiet environments.
Vendor positioning
Passive RF / Remote ID players: a growing segment with accessible entry prices, ideal for volume deployments. This is where DECTYR sits with the RX-5.
Radar vendors: often spin-offs of defence radar makers (Robin Radar, Aaronia, ECHODYNE…), high price points, point deployments on critical sites.
Integrated "all-in-one" platforms: multi-sensor solutions with proprietary hypervision. Robust, costly, weakly modular.
State-grade C-UAS (effectors): not available on the European civilian market, only operated by the State under authorisation.
Seven questions to ask a vendor
- What exactly is the detection mode: cooperative (Remote ID), non-cooperative, or both?
- Which RF bands and which Remote ID standards are supported (EN 4709-002, ASTM F3411-22a, JANS 0401, French Order of 27 December 2019, Singapore B-RID)?
- Does the system require a transmit authorisation (ANFR, FCC)?
- What software ecosystem is offered: web interface, API, ONVIF VMS integration, hypervision?
- Where are the hardware and software components designed, manufactured and hosted?
- What is the licensing and maintenance model?
- What is the field support footprint in France / Europe / USA for your scope?
Sovereignty and supply chain
For sensitive operators, supply-chain sovereignty (design, manufacturing, hosting) becomes an explicit criterion. The European Commission pushes in this direction with a forthcoming "EU Trusted Drone" label announced for end of 2026 and a counterpart for counter-drone systems. DECTYR is natively positioned here: French design and software, French manufacturing, on-premise hosting options.
FAQ
How many serious vendors are out there?
Worldwide, about a hundred players claim an offering. In practice, around twenty are mature on RF, ten or so on small-drone radar, and fewer than five on a true multi-sensor hypervision.
Should I pick a French vendor?
It is a relevant criterion for public bodies, critical infrastructure operators and defence-related structures; for less exposed private sites, technical fit and local support are the priorities.
How do I verify advertised performance?
By requiring a proof-of-concept on your site, over 2 to 4 weeks, with a written test protocol (drones, scenarios, distances, weather).