WOLFPACK

The WOLFPACK is a portable radio frequency (RF) drone detection system developed by the Danish defense technology firm MyDefence. Introduced in 2018, the device is designed for rapid deployment in both temporary forward operating bases and permanent fixed installations. It serves as a perimeter protection tool, allowing military and security forces to detect unauthorized unmanned aerial systems (UAS) before they reach critical infrastructure, military camps, or government buildings. The system is part of MyDefence’s broader counter-UAS portfolio, which includes wearable soldier kits and vehicle-mounted solutions, but the WOLFPACK is distinct in its focus on stationary or tripod-mounted perimeter surveillance.

Technically, the WOLFPACK operates as a passive RF detector, meaning it listens for the radio signals emitted by drones and their controllers rather than emitting its own signals. It covers a wide spectrum of frequencies, including 433 MHz, 868 MHz, 915 MHz, 1.2 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 5.2 GHz, and 5.8 GHz, which are commonly used by commercial and military UAVs. The unit provides 360-degree horizontal and 90-degree vertical coverage, detecting threats in less than 10 seconds. MyDefence states that the detection range can extend up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), depending on the RF environment and line of sight. A key feature is its direction-finding capability, which uses intelligent signal analysis to determine the source of the transmission with a reported accuracy of 5 degrees RMS on the 2.4, 5.2, and 5.8 GHz bands. The hardware is ruggedized, rated IP67 for waterproofing and dust resistance, and operates in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +65°C. It weighs 5 kilograms (11 lbs) and can be mounted on a tripod for quick setup or installed on a mast for permanent use. The detector integrates with MyDefence’s Iris/Argos Situational Awareness System and supports open API interfaces for integration with third-party platforms.

The WOLFPACK has been fielded by several nations, with Denmark and the United States listed as primary operators. In Denmark, it is utilized by the military and security services for base protection. In the United States, it is deployed by various agencies, though specific unit details are not publicly disclosed. The system is also marketed for use in civilian sectors, including airports, border control, corrections facilities, and critical infrastructure protection. Despite its robust specifications, the WOLFPACK has not been confirmed as combat-tested in active war zones. Its deployment is primarily focused on static defense and perimeter security rather than dynamic battlefield engagement.

MyDefence emphasizes the system’s scalability, noting that multiple WOLFPACK units can be deployed in a network to enable triangulation, thereby enhancing detection accuracy and situational awareness over larger areas. This collaborative capability allows the detectors to function as part of a multi-layered defense system, potentially integrating with radars and cameras. The company highlights the system’s ease of maintenance and rapid deployment, positioning it as a solution for forces that need to establish secure perimeters quickly. The WOLFPACK represents a shift toward lightweight, software-upgradable detection hardware that can adapt to evolving drone threats without requiring extensive infrastructure changes.