Advanced Mobile Phone Detection & Geolocation Solutions for UAVs

Why It Matters

The technology gives search‑and‑rescue and intelligence teams real‑time, infrastructure‑independent situational awareness, a critical advantage in contested or disaster‑struck environments.

Key Takeaways

• ARTEMIS detects phones up to 35 km (2G) range.
• Geolocation accuracy of ARTEMIS is 30‑40 meters.
• System integrates with Schiebel S‑100 and FLIR SkyRanger drones.
• ARTEMIS+ adds ISR capabilities for fixed‑wing and multirotor UAVs.
• ARTEMIS‑Flex ruggedized for maritime and ground platform use.

Pulse Analysis

The rise of unmanned aerial systems has created a demand for sensors that can operate beyond traditional communications infrastructure. Mobile‑phone detection offers a unique data source for both humanitarian rescue and intelligence, because virtually every individual carries a device that emits identifiable signals. By leveraging software‑defined radio, solutions like Smith Myers’ ARTEMIS transform a UAV into a flying signal‑intercept platform, enabling responders to pinpoint stranded victims or locate hostile communications in real time.

ARTEMIS’s technical edge lies in its broad frequency coverage and compliance with RTCA DO‑160G standards, ensuring reliable performance under harsh airborne conditions. The system’s passive scanning can detect 2G signals at distances of up to 35 km and LTE signals up to 12 km, while geolocation algorithms narrow positions to within 30‑40 meters. Modular variants—ARTEMIS+ for ISR and ARTEMIS‑Flex for maritime or ground use—provide seamless integration with a range of UAV frames, from multirotor drones to fixed‑wing aircraft, and support mesh radio or ground‑station control links for automated sensor cueing.

For operators and procurement officers, the commercial availability of a turnkey, in‑house developed solution reduces integration risk and lifecycle costs. The technology’s applicability spans defense, border security, and disaster response, positioning Smith Myers as a strategic partner for agencies seeking to augment aerial assets with passive signal intelligence. As governments invest in next‑generation UAV capabilities, the market for advanced detection suites like ARTEMIS is poised for rapid growth, promising new revenue streams and operational advantages for early adopters.