Kazakh cadet invents smart jammer to outsmart enemy drones and signals

Daniyar Kurmankulov, a cadet at Kazakhstan’s Military Institute of Radio Electronics and Communications Engineering, has won the international contest Best Student of the CIS-2026. He developed a smart signal-jamming device that enhances security for the country’s special forces and military. Kurmankulov’s invention operates like a precision tool, selectively blocking enemy signals while keeping a secure communication channel open. The device can disrupt Wi-Fi, mobile networks, satellite communications, and drone radio frequencies. It also transmits false coordinates to drone locators, misleading their tracking systems within a 2.5–3 kilometre radius.

The technology is available in mobile and stationary versions. It features encrypted circuitry and can run autonomously for up to 3.5 hours. Additionally, it interferes with the 2GIS mapping platform, replacing real locations with decoy coordinates to confuse adversaries.

For his achievements, Kurmankulov received a first-degree diploma for his scientific research, public engagement, and contributions to youth policy development. He has also been named Best Inventor by Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee Academy. Currently, he is developing an intelligent system to manage unmanned aerial vehicles, helping distinguish between friendly and hostile drones in the airspace. The device strengthens secure communications during critical operations like major terrorist attacks or special missions. Kurmankulov’s repeated wins in national and international competitions highlight his growing impact in military innovation. His ongoing work promises further advancements in aerial security technology.