China's radars could detect decoy drones, real targets with AI radars

Chinese military scientists have developed an advanced radar system enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) to significantly improve detection and identification of low-altitude drones, including distinguishing real targets from decoys within drone swarms. Traditional radar systems often struggle with small, fast-moving, and unpredictable drones flying at low altitudes, which can overwhelm conventional detection methods. The new AI-assisted radar employs machine learning algorithms and “inverse synthetic aperture radar” technology to analyze radar signals from multiple angles, enabling it to capture dynamic target information and better separate genuine threats from background clutter such as terrain or weather interference. Initial trials indicate that integrating AI allows the radar to process vast amounts of data rapidly, enhancing real-time analysis and tracking of numerous drones simultaneously. This capability addresses the computational challenges posed by drone swarms, which create significant clutter and detection pressure for conventional radars. The project, led by experts from a state-owned defense technology group involved in China’s air-defense radar development, aims to strengthen air-defense networks by reducing vulnerabilities exposed by evolving