Are Drone Countermeasure Devices Expensive?

by sdruav.com | Sep 26, 2025 | Articles
Are Drone Countermeasure Devices Expensive?
The price of drone countermeasure devices is influenced by multiple factors such as the type of technology, functional complexity, deployment method, and brand positioning, resulting in a wide price range. Below is a comprehensive breakdown from different perspectives:
I. Price Ranges by Technology Type
1. Electromagnetic Jamming Devices
Handheld Jammers: Basic models range from approximately USD1,000 to USD7,000.
Vehicle-mounted or Fixed Systems: Due to increased coverage and power, prices range from USD7,000 to USD70,000. 
Military-Grade High-End Systems: Integrated multi-band jamming and intelligent recognition functions, priced between USD70,000 and USD700,000.

2. Capture-Based Devices (Physical Interception)
Net Capture Devices and Robots: Basic physical capture systems (e.g., net guns) range from USD7,000 to USD30,000.
Drone vs. Drone Systems: Equipped with laser guidance and tracking algorithms, prices range from USD30,000 to USD300,000. High-end models require customized development.

3. Destruction-Based Devices
Laser Weapon Systems: Designed to burn critical components of drones, priced between USD40,000 and USD150,000.
Microwave Pulse or Missile Systems: Intended for military use, unit prices can exceed USD150,000, with customized solutions reaching tens of millions.

II. Price Differences by Deployment Method
Deployment methods include handheld, vehicle-mounted, and fixed systems.

III. Key Factors Influencing Pricing
1. Technical Complexity
Basic RF jamming devices cost only a few thousand yuan, while integrated systems combining radar detection and AI decision-making engines can be hundreds of times more expensive.

2. Coverage Range and Power
For every 1 km increase in jamming distance, costs rise by about 30%. A 100W power device is 3-5 times more expensive than a 10W model.

3. Brand and Customization
Well-known brands carry a premium of about 30%-50% but offer more reliable after-sales support.
Customized requirements (e.g., multi-zone coordinated jamming) may double the price.

4. Policy and Certification Costs
Military equipment must comply with National Military Standards (GJB), with certification costs accounting for 15%-20% of the quoted price.
Civilian devices require radio type approval, adding about USD7,000 to the cost.

5. Long-Term Maintenance Expenses
Annual maintenance for high-end systems can reach 10%-20% of the purchase price. Replacing laser weapon lens components may cost tens of thousands of yuan per instance.

IV. Cost-Effectiveness Recommendations
Civilian Security Scenarios (e.g., corporate campuses, private events):
Opt for handheld jammers (USD3,000-USD7,000) to meet basic countermeasure needs.

Critical Infrastructure (e.g., airports, power plants):
Fixed integrated systems (USD70,000-USD300,000) are necessary, combining radar detection and multi-band jamming.

Military/Counter-Terrorism Use:
Consider customized destruction systems. Although costly (>USD150,000), they are more effective against high-risk threats.