Danish defense firm MyDefence has introduced the Wingman Edge, a wearable drone detection device designed for frontline soldiers. The system identifies potential aerial threats by monitoring radio signals, including control, communication, Wi-Fi, and video transmission links.
The device operates by scanning the 200 MHz to 6 GHz frequency range. It utilizes a combination of signature-based radio frequency identification and on-device AI spectrum analysis to detect both known threats and previously unrecorded radio activity.
The passive design ensures the device does not emit radio frequency energy, minimizing the risk of detection for the user. Upon identifying a suspicious signal, the system alerts the soldier within approximately 10 seconds through sound, light, vibration, or a display screen.
Weighing less than 1 kilogram, the Wingman Edge is 17% lighter than its predecessor. It integrates with tactical networks, vehicle systems, and command centers to share data, and is compatible with tactical applications such as ATAK to improve team coordination.
The device can detect threats at a maximum range of approximately 6 kilometers, though performance depends on specific radio environments and line-of-sight conditions. CEO Dan D. S. Hermansen stated the system aims to provide soldiers with real-time awareness of electromagnetic spectrum anomalies.
