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SkyWall 100 & SkyWall 300 Counter-Drone System (UK)

The SkyWall 100 and SkyWall 300, a unique counter-drone system developed by OpenWorks Engineering. Utilizing net-based capture technology, these systems offer a non-destructive method for intercepting unmanned aerial vehicles.

System Overview

  • Name: SkyWall 100 & SkyWall 300
  • Manufacturer: OpenWorks Engineering
  • Country of Origin: United Kingdom
  • Type: Physical capture system (net-based interception)
  • Intended Use: Law enforcement, military, and critical infrastructure protection

Technical Specifications

SkyWall 100 (Man-Portable System)

  • Detection Capabilities:
    • Operator-guided targeting with smart scope
    • Can be integrated with external radar and sensor networks
  • Neutralization Method:
    • Pneumatically launched net entanglement system
    • Optional parachute deployment to prevent drone damage
  • Effective Range:
    • Up to 100 meters
  • Mobility:
    • Man-portable, shoulder-fired system
  • Deployment Mode:
    • Handheld, standalone operation

SkyWall 300 (Automated System)

  • Detection Capabilities:
    • Fully automated targeting using radar and electro-optical tracking
  • Neutralization Method:
    • Robotic turret fires net-based interception rounds
    • Can be integrated with larger C-UAS networks
  • Effective Range:
    • Up to 250 meters
  • Mobility:
    • Fixed or vehicle-mounted turret
  • Deployment Mode:
    • Automated, networked operation

Operational Use & Effectiveness

  • Known Deployments:
    • Used by UK security forces and other European agencies
    • Deployed at high-security events such as G7 Summits and Olympic Games
  • Combat/Field Testing History:
    • Successfully demonstrated at multiple military and law enforcement trials
    • Proven effective against small commercial UAVs in controlled and real-world environments
  • Effectiveness Against Various Drone Types:
    • Highly effective against small drones (Group 1 UAVs)
    • Less effective against swarms or larger, high-speed UAVs

Notable Features & Advantages

  • Key Strengths:
    • Non-destructive capture method (allows forensic analysis of drones)
    • No RF interference, making it suitable for urban and sensitive environments
  • Unique Capabilities:
    • SkyWall 100: Handheld deployment for rapid response
    • SkyWall 300: Automated tracking and engagement for fixed-site security
  • Adaptability & Scalability:
    • Can be integrated with radar and jamming solutions for layered C-UAS defense

Limitations & Challenges

  • Known Weaknesses:
    • Limited range compared to electronic warfare or kinetic solutions
    • Less effective against large UAVs or high-speed drones
  • Operational Constraints:
    • SkyWall 100: Requires manual aiming and reloading
    • SkyWall 300: Fixed deployment limits mobility
  • Adversary Countermeasures:
    • Drones with high agility or countermeasures may evade net capture
    • Autonomous drones may continue operation after net entanglement

Future Developments & Upgrades

  • Planned Enhancements:
    • Improved automation and AI integration for SkyWall 300
    • Enhanced net technology to capture larger drone models
  • Integration with Other Systems:
    • Compatible with RF detection, jamming, and directed-energy weapons
  • Future Deployment Plans:
    • Increasing adoption for stadiums, VIP events, and critical infrastructure protection

Image: U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa

AI-assisted article.