‘Invisible Shield’: Polish Scientists Develop System that Can ‘Fry’ Drones in Seconds

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Polish scientists have developed an electromagnetic system that can instantly disable hostile drones, a breakthrough that researchers say could transform how critical infrastructure and sensitive sites are protected.

The system, known as STRATUS, was created by a team at Gdańsk University of Technology and uses powerful electromagnetic pulses to disrupt or destroy the electronic components of unmanned aerial vehicles.  

Unlike conventional counter-drone measures such as gunfire or explosive interceptors, STRATUS relies on short, high-intensity electromagnetic impulses that can neutralize a drone almost instantly without causing physical explosions.

Researchers say this makes the system particularly suitable for use near critical infrastructure such as airports, power plants, ports as well as public events, where traditional methods could pose additional risks. 

The heart of the system is an advanced electromagnetic effector capable of generating extremely strong but precisely targeted pulses. According to the research team, the main engineering challenge was not producing the impulse itself, but controlling the extreme voltages and power densities involved, while ensuring safe operation. 

Researchers have likened the system to an “invisible shield,” as it disables drones electronically rather than shooting them down. 

The technology has been successfully tested in laboratory and controlled conditions, but has not yet been deployed operationally. 

STRATUS has received more than 21 million złotys (€5 million) in funding from Poland’s National Centre for Research and Development, a state body that funds innovation projects in the country.