AI-based Drone Detection and Classification: A NATO STO Hackathon
Coutinho, F. D. L. C.
;
Figueiredo, RJCF
;
Lourenço, G.
;
Casau, P.
;
Rito, P.
; Vieira, J.
;
Oliveira, A.
;
Carvalho, N.B.C.
AI-based Drone Detection and Classification: A NATO STO Hackathon, Proc International Conference on Military Communications and Information Systems ICMCIS ICMCIS, Bath, United Kingdom, Vol. , pp. - , May, 2026.
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Abstract
This work presents a NATO STO hackathon on AI-based UAV detection and classification using RF signals, supported by real-world measurement campaigns that enable the development of efficient, edge-ready models. The initiative addresses key C-UAS challenges, including robust detection in operational environments, fast inference on constrained hardware, and the transition from prototypes to deployable systems. The results show how hackathon-driven experimentation can accelerate research and strengthen next-generation UAV security solutions.