Russian engineers have developed a radar system capable of detecting small drones at distances of up to 21 kilometers without revealing its own position to enemy electronic intelligence. Unlike conventional radar equipment, the system does not transmit radio signals, making it invisible to electronic reconnaissance assets and anti-radiation missiles. Rostec has outlined the capabilities of the new technology developed by its Ruselectronics holding.

The system, known as the Three-Dimensional Passive Coherent Locator (3D PCL), takes a different approach to tracking aerial targets. Rather than emitting signals and analyzing their reflections, it relies on radio waves already present in the surrounding environment. Television and radio broadcasting towers provide the transmissions needed to locate objects in the air.

This approach allows the radar to detect drones even when they switch off their communications equipment and satellite navigation receivers. Aircraft operating entirely on inertial navigation cannot escape detection simply by going radio silent. Signals transmitted by terrestrial broadcasting stations continue to reflect off objects in the surrounding airspace, giving the locator the information it needs to track their movements.

A developer told Rossiyskaya Gazeta that the system uses the Doppler shift in reflected radio waves to identify moving targets and determine their coordinates. Its detection range reaches 21 kilometers, while the radar itself remains hidden from enemy reconnaissance systems.

The technology becomes even more effective when integrated with other counter-drone equipment. One example is the Zhnets system, which combines radio monitoring devices with electronic warfare systems such as SERP and PRES. Working together, these components allow target information to be passed immediately to electronic suppression equipment and air defense systems.

Another important feature is the radar’s compatibility with civilian infrastructure. Its operating algorithms do not interfere with communications networks or other electronic devices, allowing the equipment to be deployed in densely populated urban areas and near airports without disrupting their normal operations.

The locator also features a mobile design, with the entire radar station weighing 180 kilograms.