Drone Swarms — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to drone swarms is/are correct?
- They use Terahertz band of frequency to communicate with the command centre.
- Individual drones in the swarm can communicate with other drones in the swarm.
- GPS Spoofing is a commonly used technique to counter drone swarm attack.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 2 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect
- Drone swarms generally communicate using conventional radio frequencies such as Wi-Fi bands, RF links, or military communication bands. The Terahertz band is still largely experimental and is not the standard communication medium for operational drone swarms.
Statement 2 is correct
- Individual drones in a swarm can communicate with one another through networked communication systems, enabling coordinated movement, autonomous decision-making, and swarm intelligence.
Statement 3 is correct
- GPS Spoofing means a cyberattack that uses false GPS signals to mislead navigation systems. Attackers mimic legitimate GPS signals, tricking systems into perceiving incorrect locations, speeds, or altitudes. It is a commonly used counter-drone technique in which false GPS signals are transmitted to mislead drones regarding their actual position, thereby disrupting or neutralising drone swarm operations.
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Medium
