China has emerged as the global leader in anti-drone technology patents, significantly outpacing the US and South Korea.
The surge comes at a time when drones are rapidly changing modern warfare and raising security concerns worldwide.
Anti-drone Patent Race
According to UK-based intellectual property law firm Mathys & Squire, patent filings for anti-drone systems increased by 27 percent over the past year. China alone filed 82 patents, while the US submitted 22. South Korea ranked a distant third with just six applications.
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The growing importance of such technologies is linked to recent conflicts and security incidents. Drones have played a key role in the war in Ukraine, demonstrating their ability to reshape battlefield strategies.
At the same time, tensions in the Persian Gulf have exposed the limitations of traditional, expensive missile-based defense systems.
Mathys & Squire said drones have transformed modern warfare and highlighted the urgent need for more effective countermeasures. The firm noted that technologies such as laser systems, microwave weapons, and signal jamming are becoming the most commonly explored solutions.
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The rise in patent activity also reflects increasing concerns over civilian safety. Reports of suspicious drone sightings in Europe and the US have added to fears about potential threats to critical infrastructure. Airports, seaports, prisons, and energy facilities are now actively exploring anti-drone systems to prevent disruptions.
Andrew White, a partner at the firm, said organizations are racing to develop reliable countermeasures as drone-related incidents continue to affect sensitive locations. He added that technologies capable of quickly disabling drones, especially through signal interference, are seeing growing demand.
Experts believe China’s strong push in patent filings is part of a broader strategic effort.
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Chen Zhiwu, a finance professor at the University of Hong Kong, said China is likely preparing for future military scenarios while also aiming to expand exports of such technologies. He said he is not surprised by China’s dominance, noting that war preparedness has influenced its economic policies for over a decade.
China’s leadership in drone manufacturing further strengthens its position. Shenzhen-based DJI continues to dominate the global commercial drone market, holding an estimated 70 percent share in 2024.
As drones become more widespread, the race to develop effective countermeasures is expected to intensify, with countries investing heavily in technologies that can secure both military and civilian spaces.
