We’re Told Commercial Drones Should Be Very, Very Afraid of This Thing

WTF is it?

November 28, 2016 9:00 am EST

Because the interwebs are crammed full of crazy things, and sometimes the purpose of those things is not immediately discernible, we present WTF Is It?

WTF is it?
The DroneGun, a jamming device that can disable aerial targets from a distance of 1.2 miles away.

So what’s it do?
By altering electronic signals — including GPS and GLONASS — the drone “countermeasure” can force targets to cut off camera signals, instantly land on the ground or fly back to whence they came. If the drone is carrying something like explosives, they’ll remain untouched and intact.

Who makes it?
DroneShield, a security firm that’s previously created detection systems for airports and prisons as well as designed acoustic technology that can sense drones that don’t show up on radar.

Is it in any way useful?
While it might be more satisfying to simply blast an offensive drone out of the sky or sick an eagle on it, drone-jamming devices like the DroneGun offer an effective mode of protection that preserves evidence for the authorities and reduces the chance of property destruction charges.

Do I need any experience to use it?
Nope. The backpack-powered gun requires no technical training to set up or calibrate, and it offers about two hours of uninterrupted use following a 90-minute charge.

Can I buy one?
Not quite yet. The DroneGun hasn’t been authorized for use in the United States, so the jamming device can’t be sold or leased except by the government and its agencies until the FCC signs off.

Should I buy one?
Just because you’re paranoid, doesn’t mean they’re not after you. That said, wait until it’s legal.

Fair enough. Got any footage of it to hold me over in the meantime?
Yessir:

Meet your guide

Evan Bleier

Evan Bleier

Evan is a senior editor with InsideHook who earned a master’s degree in journalism from NYU and has called Brooklyn home since 2006. A fan of Boston sports, Nashville hot chicken and Kentucky bourbon, Evan has had his work published in publications including “Maxim,” Bleacher Report and “The Daily Mail.”
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