November 15, 2025 | Ottawa, ON
The Challenge
Modern battlefields are swarming with small, low-cost drones (Class 1 UAS)—systems too elusive for radar and tricky for traditional detection.
These systems are often too small to appear on radar or may operate in cluttered environments where traditional RF detection is ineffective. Yet, their motors, propellers, and flight patterns produce distinct acoustic signatures, allowing drones to be recognized by sound and subsequently detected and classified.
Your mission: Build “Shazam for Drones”—a smart, audio-based system that listens, detects, and pinpoints airborne threats in real time.
What’s at Stake
Compete to develop a rapid software prototype that identifies, classifies, and distinguishes different Class 1 UAS using real acoustic data. Your tool must separate drones from noise—whether birds, vehicles, or wind—and integrate with a live dashboard for demo day.
Key Details
Teams: 10 teams will be selected or assembled (4–5 people each)
You may apply as an individual, or with a full team. Solo applicants are encouraged and will be placed on a team
Final Demo: November 15th, with up to 80 guests and experts in attendance for final pitches
Dataset: Access a realistic, challenge-provided audio dataset covering 10 drone models and background noise
Apply by Nov. 7
Hosted by AVSS. Sponsored by Kongsberg, NORRG, RMUS Canada, ThinkOn. The Icebreaker is a promotional partner and advisor
Deliverables
Working prototype for real-time drone audio detection
Model distinguishes drone/non-drone sounds
Integration with a basic web/mobile dashboard
Live demo showcasing capabilities
Prize Pool: $20,000 CAD
1st Place: $10,000
2nd Place: $6,000
3rd Place (3 teams): $1,000 each
Best Presenter: $1,000