As reported by EurasianTimes, Chinese researchers have developed a new method for detecting aerial targets using radiation from Starlink satellites. The technology could even help detect stealth aircraft like the F-22 and F-35, which typically evade traditional radar systems. In an experiment conducted in the South China Sea, Chinese scientists used signals from Starlink satellites to detect a DJI Phantom 4 Pro drone, simulating a stealth aircraft.
The method is based on forward scatter, where an object intersecting a satellite’s electromagnetic waves causes slight changes in the signal. These disturbances are recorded and analyzed, allowing the precise location of the object to be determined. A key feature of the method is its passivity—it does not require the emission of radar signals, making it difficult for an adversary to detect or jam the system.
In the experiment, scientists used an undisclosed algorithm and a high-performance processor to process the data. Despite the small antenna size and low altitude of the drone, the system was able to detect even the smallest details, such as propeller movement.
While the technology is still in development and not ready for military use, it shows potential for detecting stealth aircraft and drones. This method can bypass standard countermeasures against stealth technologies based on reducing electromagnetic wave reflection. The Starlink satellite network, with over 6,000 satellites in orbit, provides broad coverage of high-frequency signals that can be used for these purposes, despite their encryption and unavailability in China.
The experiment is part of China’s program to strengthen its capabilities to combat aerial threats by using innovative technologies to detect hidden targets.