My Seamless Transition into Counter-Drone

October 15, 2023 | Shai Lugassy

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and security, my journey has taken a compelling turn with my recent foray into the world of counter-drone at D-Fend Solutions. As a seasoned professional with a decade of experience in digital security, my transition into this new realm was sparked by a profound encounter during my previous tenure in the forensics sector. A few years ago, while working with a company focused on digital intelligence and analytics, in a routine visit to a customer in the prison sector, I learned of incidents that opened my eyes — drones clandestinely delivering contraband to prison facilities. Witnessing a video of a drone engaged in such illicit activities, I found myself captivated by the complexities of countering rogue drones and the need for innovative solutions to overcome this threat.

 I joined D-Fend a few months ago and on September 26-27, I had the opportunity to attend International Security Expo in London. It is a world class premier governmental and end-user security event, giving security professionals from across the world the chance to come together face-to-face under one roof to network, learn and discover the latest security solutions from the world’s leading suppliers. The event broadened my understanding of the need for proper counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), and shed light on the challenges faced by our customers, pushing the boundaries of security in an era where drones are both a boon and a bane.

During the event, I was able to engage with numerous attendees, who were interested in our solution, its features, and capabilities. They were professionals in the security industry, interested in identifying the different vendors and models of counter-UAS. Some were surprised when they realized that EnforceAir can fend-off or take control and land a drone in a very “clean” way. Eyebrows were happily raised when people understood this capability and the different use cases where the system is effective. A few current customers, who have already deployed EnforceAir1, were particularly impressed with EnforceAir2’s extended range, compact and powerful form factor and size, and easy and seamless conversion between different deployments.

Understanding the Challenge of Rogue Drones

Reflecting on my decade-long career in digital security, I couldn’t help but enthusiastically dive into the challenges faced in securing specific areas against rogue drones and safeguarding the public from threats posed by bad actors wielding these UAVs. Operators of drones may act on the wrong side of the law, feeling a sense of invincibility until law enforcement employs their sophisticated tools to counter such technological capabilities.

Precise identification and handling of threats, a cornerstone in digital and counter-drone domains, points to the need for vigilance and innovation. With commonly available technologies like drones becoming potent tools in the hands of the public, law enforcement and military personnel must stay ahead of the curve.

Detecting and mitigating drones during flight, presents a set of formidable challenges. The complexity and urgency that C-UAS professionals face when dealing with suspect drones brings an urgent need to detect and alert, locate, and track, identify, and when permitted, fend-off and take control and land unauthorized drones.

I appreciate that when contending with a rogue drone, our clients’ objective is to  achieve continuity and not adversely affect the environment, situations, law enforcement, VIP, events, etc.

As I navigate this new frontier at D-Fend Solutions, I find myself at the intersection of technology, security, and innovation. The experiences from my decade in security technology have provided a great foundation for coping with the challenges and opportunities presented in the world of counter-drone solutions. It’s a realm where precision, innovation, and a commitment to security converge, and I am excited to be part of a company that stands at the forefront of this technological frontier.

Shai Lugassy is D-Fend Solutions’ Pre-Sales Engineer based in London, with over 25 years of experience in the field. Sales oriented and driven, he brings strong technical sales and marketing skills, combined with a deep technological background. Shai has worked as sales and pre-sales engineer for major companies, including Cellebrite, Elbit, and Ribbon Communications (previously ECI Telecom.) With excellent personal relations skills, he is a team player and leader, addressing the needs of a wide range of international customers and partners. Shai holds a B.Sc. in Electronic and Communications Engineering from Ariel University.

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