In a context marked by the rapid proliferation of unmanned aerial systems and growing regional tensions in East Asia, South Korea has announced the successful test of a new radar technology designed to significantly enhance its detection and surveillance capabilities. On April 17, 2025, the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) reported having conducted an outdoor demonstration of a photonic radar system powered by artificial intelligence, capable of detecting small drones located several kilometers away.
This system, under development since 2022, is based on disruptive technology. Unlike conventional radars that rely on electromagnetic waves, the photonic radar uses modulated light signals, which provide higher resolution, increased resistance to electronic countermeasures, and improved detection of discreet or miniaturized aerial targets. Combined with AI-driven analytical algorithms, the system is designed to identify flying objects with very low radar signatures, even in cluttered or low-contrast environments.
According to ADD, the trial successfully detected small drones at long range, although specific details such as the exact distance or the size of the aerial vehicles were not disclosed due to military security concerns. This confidentiality reflects the sensitive nature of the program, which aims to address a critical gap in South Korea’s aerial surveillance apparatus: the detection of low-altitude threats that often evade traditional optical or infrared sensors.