Exploratory study of potential applications of UAV magnetic surveys for unexploded ordnance detection in coastline zone

• Main Authors: Poliachenko, I.B., Kozak, V., Bakhmutov, V.G., Cherkes, S.I., Bilyi, T.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Subbotin Institute of Geophysics of the NAS of Ukraine 2025
• Subjects: magnetic survey; UAV-based magnetometer system; UXO detection; mines in coastal zone
• Online Access: https://journals.uran.ua/geofizicheskiy/article/view/316760

The problem of landmine and unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination in Ukraine, affecting up to 30  % of the territory, is staggering. Current de-mining methodologies without modern technological advancements are estimated to take tens to hundreds of years to complete. The intensive development of unmanned aerial vehicles, sensors, and detection strategies offers an opportunity to use them for remote sensing and the detection of UXOs. We have already demonstrated that combining a UAV-based magnetometer system with proper scientific methodology can help find and classify landmines. This paper uses the same system to detect various types of ammunition in shallow water (up to several meters deep). We detected 100  % of the tested ferrous mines and ordnance in the coastal zone. All targets (duds of different types) were quickly identified using a simple data-processing method inthree water sites as part of a magnetic survey conducted in a controlled setting. Several technological and instrumental issues negatively affected data quality. Although our study confirmed the locations of magnetic targets, we did not consider a method for analysing their depths. The relationship between burial depth and magnetic anomalies should be explored, as different types of mines and UXO have unique properties. Establishing a database for their identification is also necessary. The effectiveness of the UAV-based magnetometer system has the potential to reduce the risk of mine hazards in coastal zones and shorten the landmine-detection period by providing accurate information about the surveyed area.