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The Growing Threat of Drones in Complex Environments

c-uas for armyIn the rugged terrain of a conflict zone, a covert military mission is underway. Suddenly, the faint buzz of a drone cuts through the air. In the past, this sound might have spelled disaster for the special forces team. But today, they are prepared. A soldier operates the compact, backpack-mounted counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) which is already deployed on his back. Within seconds, the threat is mitigated, and the operation can continue uninterrupted.

This scenario illustrates a growing challenge in modern security operations: rogue drones pose an increasing risk in sensitive and hard-to-reach locations. From covert surveillance to payload delivery, malicious actors can leverage drones to threaten military operations, law enforcement activities, and critical infrastructure – even in the most challenging terrains.

Traditional counter-drone systems may rely on fixed installations or vehicle-mounted units, leaving a critical gap in protection for personnel operating in complex, hard-to-access environments. Some settings can’t even accommodate a tactical tripod. Security teams need a highly portable, powerful solution that provides full control. The ability to detect, locate, identify, and safely mitigate drone threats is essential, but existing options are often too bulky or complex for rapid deployment in rugged conditions.

Understanding the Need for Portable C-UAS Technology

Drone threats can emerge anywhere, from dense urban centers to remote wilderness. Unauthorized or malicious drone activity can threaten various environments, disrupt public events, and pose risks to national security. Security professionals need the ability to counter these threats, no matter how challenging the terrain. This is where backpack-deployable C-UAS technology comes into play.

These ultra-portable systems serve as a critical lifeline in scenarios where traditional configurations of C-UAS solutions simply can’t go. Conventional counter-drone measures may be bulky, infrastructure-dependent, and limited in their deployment, making them unsuitable for many challenging environments. This gap has given rise to a new breed of C-UAS solutions designed specifically for backpack deployment.

Carried and operated by a single person, this comprehensive counter-drone defense opens up new possibilities for security in hard-to-reach areas. It can be brought anywhere and used to detect, identify, track, and mitigate threats from inside a backpack.

This blog explores ultra-portable counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) configurations designed for backpack deployment, addressing a critical need in modern security operations across military, law enforcement, and other security sectors. 

By discussing the technological advancements enabling these portable systems and their potential impact on security strategies, this article provides insights for security professionals, policymakers, and technology enthusiasts. Consider the broader implications of this technology for airspace management, and the future of counter-drone defense in an increasingly complex aerial landscape.

The Portability Advantage

While their compact nature is a clear advantage, backpack C-UAS solutions offer unique portability benefits that enhance mission efficiency:

  • Rapid Deployment: In time-sensitive situations, these systems can be operational within minutes, providing crucial protection when every second counts.
  • Operational Flexibility: The ability to quickly relocate and redeploy allows security teams to adapt to evolving threats in real-time.
  • Covert Operations: Low-profile designs with concealed antennas and fan-less operation support missions where maintaining stealth is paramount.
  • Extended Protection: With long battery life and hot-swappable power options, these systems provide continuous coverage for extended operations.
  • All-Terrain Capability: Ruggedized designs ensure functionality across diverse and challenging environments.

Operational Applications for Backpack-mounted C-UAS – Stories from the Field

 

Urban Tactical Response

In a densely populated city, a dangerous incident unfolds. As law enforcement establishes a perimeter, they’re concerned about potential drone surveillance from perpetrators or interference from civilian drones. A tactical team quickly deploys a backpack C-UAS unit around the site, ensuring a drone-free zone for their operation without the need for large, conspicuous equipment that could escalate tensions.

 

Border Patrol in Rugged Terrain

Along a vast, mountainous, or desert border, patrol units face the challenge of detecting and intercepting drug-smuggling drones. Equipped with backpack C-UAS, these units can now carry advanced drone detection and mitigation capabilities on foot patrols through areas inaccessible to vehicles, significantly enhancing their ability to secure the border.

 

 

VIP Protection on the Move

A high-profile political or religious leader is addressing large outdoor gatherings at multiple sites. The security detail, mindful of the potential for drone-based threats, can deploy backpack C-UAS as part of their mobile protection strategy. This creates temporary protected zones at each stop, protecting the VP from aerial threats and safeguarding the crowd.

Looking to the Future

As drone technology continues to advance, so does the need for flexible and adaptable counter-drone solutions. Ultra-portable C-UAS represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by drones in hard-to-reach terrains. They empower security professionals to protect people, assets, and sensitive information in scenarios that were previously vulnerable to aerial threats.

The development of these systems isn’t just about countering current threats; it’s about anticipating future challenges. As drones become smaller, more autonomous, and more capable, having a portable, powerful defense will be crucial for security operations across all sectors.

Backpack-deployable C-UAS solutions are more than just a technological achievement—they represent a paradigm shift counter-drone defense offering advanced protection to the most challenging environments and opening up new possibilities for safeguarding in an increasingly complex aerial landscape.

I invite you to check out an earlier post from one of my colleagues about implementing C-UAS in urban environments, which presents other unique hurdles. Check out that post to learn how to overcome these challenges & deploy C-UAS effectively in urban environments.

 

The rapid evolution of drone technology has brought about significant benefits across various industries, from agriculture to entertainment. However, it has also introduced new challenges, especially in the realm of border security. 

Drones can be used for smuggling, espionage, reconnaissance, or even direct attacks, making them a growing threat to national security. To combat these risks, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) have emerged as a critical tool for securing borders. This article explores the top five ways C-UAS systems are reshaping border protection and highlights how advanced anti-drone technology is at the forefront of this vital transformation.

Drone

  1. Enhanced Threat Detection and Monitoring

Traditional border security measures, like cameras and motion sensors, are often inadequate against the small and agile nature of drones. While legacy C-UAS systems, such as radar, radio frequency (RF) detection, or electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors provide an improved layer of threat detection, they can sometimes produce false positives confusing drones with other flying objects.. RF Cyber detection overcomes this limitation, providing accurate identification of incoming threats from kilometers away. This early detection is crucial, allowing security teams to assess the risk level and  swiftly respond, preventing drones from breaching sensitive areas.

  1. Precision in Neutralizing Unauthorized Drones

Once a drone is detected, mitigating it without causing collateral damage is the next challenge. Traditional kinetic approaches, like shooting drones down, pose safety risks and can result in unintended collateral damage to property or people. The most advanced C-UAS systems employ non-kinetic, RF cyber-takeover methods to safely take control of rogue drones. This precise, surgical approach makes sure that only the unauthorized drone is mitigated, without causing harm to the surrounding environment or infrastructure.

  1. Protecting Sensitive Border Areas

Borders often include sensitive zones such as government installations, critical infrastructure, and populated urban areas. C-UAS systems protect these zones by effectively creating an invisible barrier that prevents drones from entering. These systems can enforce no-fly zones and automatically engage threats within a designated perimeter. For example, D-Fend’s EnforceAir system can autonomously detect and take over drones in restricted areas, redirecting them safely to a predefined location. This capability helps maintain the integrity of sensitive sites,  preventing unauthorized drones from collecting critical information or disrupting operations.

  1. Supporting Law Enforcement and Anti-Smuggling Efforts

Drones have increasingly been used for illegal activities, including drug smuggling and reconnaissance that enables human trafficking across borders. C-UAS systems empower law enforcement agencies by providing real-time data and actionable intelligence on unauthorized drone activities. These systems can track the flight paths of unauthorized drones and provide valuable insight about their operators. By capturing drones safely and intact, law enforcement can analyze their payload and data, contributing to broader anti-smuggling and counter-terrorism efforts.

 

  1. Enhancing Situational Awareness and Response Coordination

C-UAS systems significantly boost situational awareness by integrating with existing border security technologies. By combining drone detection data with other security systems, such as ground sensors and cameras, security teams gain a comprehensive view of their operational environment. This integration allows for better coordination and faster decision-making when responding to aerial threats. Data from C-UAS systems can also be used to predict drone activity patterns, enabling proactive measures to fortify border defenses against future incursions.

Next-Gen C-UAS Solutions for Border Security

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) are becoming indispensable tools in the arsenal of border security. Their ability to detect, track, and mitigate drones with precision and minimal disruption makes them key components of modern security strategies. 

Non-kinetic, cyber-centric solutions like EnforceAir can safely neutralize hostile drones without affecting legitimate activities or compromising public safety. With increasing drone activity along borders, C-UAS systems offer effective measures to maintain order at the border and operational continuity, providing a way to manage and mitigate potential risks. Investing in next-gen C-UAS technology is a step toward maintaining secure airspace and addressing the challenges posed by unauthorized drones.

The proliferation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in cross-border illicit activities is a growing concern for border security agencies, challenging conventional border protection strategies and necessitating innovative Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) solutions.

Unauthorized Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Operations

Criminal syndicates, particularly transnational drug cartels, have strategically integrated drone technology into their intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations along international borders. UAVs provide real-time, high-resolution data on border agent movements, enabling criminal entities to orchestrate activities with unprecedented precision and minimal risk of detection.

Modern capabilities –  extended flight times, high-altitude performance, and advanced imaging systems – make drones formidable tools for clandestine intelligence gathering. This situational awareness gives criminal organizations a tactical advantage in evading law enforcement.

C-UAS technologies play a crucial role in countering these threats by detecting, tracking, and mitigating unauthorized drones engaged in ISR activities.

Sophisticated Narcotics and Contraband Smuggling

Drones have revolutionized narcotics and contraband smuggling across borders, enabling traffickers to traverse long distances while evading traditional checkpoints. Criminal organizations, for smuggling operations, exploit key advantages of drone technology, such as:

– Covert nocturnal flights and operations in remote, challenging terrains

– Capacity to transport diverse illegal payloads, including drugs and weapons

– Reduced human risk compared to traditional smuggling  methods

To combat this, border security agencies are increasingly relying on advanced C-UAS systems to neutralize and capture drones carrying illicit cargo.

Emerging Threats to Airspace Safety

Border security

The rising presence of unauthorized drones in border regions poses substantial risks to manned aircraft, including border patrol and law enforcement, commercial, and general aviation flights. Uncontrolled drone incursions into restricted airspace can lead to potentially catastrophic collisions, jeopardizing aircraft integrity and passenger safety.

C-UAS technologies are essential for protecting aviation assets by establishing a protective perimeter around critical airspace and sensitive environments.

Systematic Non-Compliance with Air Traffic Regulations

Operators engaged in unauthorized drone activities consistently demonstrate a blatant disregard for air traffic regulations, further complicating the challenges faced by border security agencies. Common violations include:

– Conducting nighttime operations without proper illumination

– Frequent flights above the 400-foot altitude limit

– Deliberate incursions into restricted airspace zones

This systematic non-compliance elevates the risk of aviation incidents and significantly impedes efforts to secure airspace along international borders.

C-UAS systems provide a means to enforce these regulations by identifying and mitigating non-compliant drone operations.

C-UAS: Essential for National Security, Public Safety, and Confronting Criminal Activity at Borders  

As drone technology rapidly evolves, border security agencies face increasingly complex challenges due to the misuse of drones in cross-border criminal activities that threaten national security and public safety. To counter this threat, agencies must adopt effective C-UAS solutions.

Integrating advanced C-UAS technologies tailored to specific environments is essential for addressing the evolving drone threat landscape. These systems provide comprehensive situational awareness throughout the rogue drone incident lifecycle, resulting in safe landings and controlled outcomes. By embracing cutting-edge C-UAS solutions, border security agencies can secure their borders, safeguard personnel, and protect public interests. A proactive approach to implementing these technologies will be crucial in maintaining operational continuity and overcoming the growing challenges of UAV misuse.

The rapid advancement of drone technology has fundamentally reshaped airspace dynamics, with UAVs finding applications across a myriad of sectors. This proliferation, however, brings with it a multifaceted and evolving  threat to national security, particularly at sensitive sites along U.S. borders, military installations, and critical domestic infrastructure. 

These agile and versatile devices have become tools for nefarious activities, bypassing traditional security measures with ease – an issue that doesn’t seem to be slowing down. In fact, In fact, there are over 1,000 drone incursions into U.S. airspace that occur from the southern border every month. 

Such developments starkly accentuate the urgent need to address this security vulnerability and deploy effective counter-UAS solutions.

The challenge lies in implementing these countermeasures in a manner that is both safe and secure. The crux of the solution rests within the development and deployment of counter-UAS technologies designed to address and mitigate the risks posed by unauthorized drones with careful consideration to minimize collateral impacts on surrounding environments and populations.

This article delves into the intricacies of this pressing issue, exploring the balance between effective countermeasures and the imperative to minimize collateral impacts.

Drone Threats to National Security

national security risk

The U.S. border has witnessed a surge in illegal drone incursions facilitating the smuggling of people, drugs, and weapons into the country.  The agility of drones, traversing rugged terrain and evading detection, exposes vulnerabilities in border security. Drones also pose a threat to national security by enabling espionage on law enforcement and military operations, potentially compromising personnel and infrastructure via reconnaissance used for planning precision strikes.

The threat extends beyond military and border security to vital national infrastructure. Critical sectors such as power generation, water treatment, communications, and transportation are increasingly vulnerable to drone attacks. Drone strikes targeting these infrastructures could potentially lead to widespread service outages that could cripple essential services and have devastating repercussions on the economy, public safety, and overall national security.

Challenges in Current Counter-UAS Solutions

Given the complex nature of these threats, there is a pressing need to implement robust countermeasures. A range of counter-UAS solutions are available for authorized personnel to address the drone threat effectively. However, their suitability varies across different environments, influenced by the potential for collateral damage associated with their use.

Kinetic or physical shooting options represent a very wide range of methods, including, for example, net guns and intelligent shooters. These may risk harming bystanders and damaging property in densely populated areas. Similarly, jamming, spoofing, and other electronic warfare-based technologies might unintentionally disrupt essential systems, creating a cascade of safety concerns that affect not only hostile drones but also authorized operations in the vicinity.

The Case for Low or No Collateral Counter-UAS Solutions

case for low or no collateral counter-uas solutions

In contrast to the traditional counter-UAS solutions mentioned above, low or no collateral options offer a targeted, proportionate, and cost-effective approach to mitigating drone threats. These systems equip authorized security personnel with the ability to mitigate hostile drones quickly and effectively with lower risks to bystanders, infrastructure, and the environment.

Unlike kinetic or jamming methods, EnforceAir2‘s cyber-takeover technology avoids collateral damage and disruption to surrounding communications and electronic systems. Its versatility makes it suitable for a broad range of environments, including urban areas and critical infrastructure, effectively safeguarding these areas without impacting non-targeted electronics or causing unintended consequences.

The First Step Forward: Recognition of the Threat

Counter-UAS Strategies for the future

The recognition of the urgent need for low or no-collateral effect counter-UAS Solutions is widespread among defense, homeland security, and law enforcement operators. These sectors are acutely aware of the sophisticated array of drone threats and the critical gaps in defensive capabilities. In response, significant investment has been made in the research and development (R&D) of counter UAS technologies. This R&D phase is crucial for advancing the technological capabilities needed to address the evolving drone threats effectively and with minimal damage.

In addition to the research and development updating policy implementation initiatives is imperative – especially regarding low collateral counter-UAS solutions. The swift adoption of these systems into operational use is essential to bridge the ever-growing gap between drone capabilities and appropriate defense solutions while empowering authorized security personnel to effectively counter the evolving threat posed by dangerous drones.

Securing the Future

As the threat landscape evolves, so too must our approach to national security. The deployment of low or no collateral counter-UAS Solutions represents a pivotal advancement in the ongoing battle for creating safe airspace. 

The future of airspace security hinges on developing and deploying counter-UAS solutions that are not only effective but also sustainable and low collateral. 

For a deeper understanding and evaluation of counter-UAS solutions, check out these Detection Technologies and Mitigation Technologies white papers.

In a display of solidarity and support, I had the opportunity to participate in the Border Patrol Protection Foundation’s Honoring the Green 2023 charity golf event. This event, dedicated to raising funds for the BPF, showcased not only a day of friendly golf but also a deep commitment to honoring and assisting the families of Border Patrol employees who made the ultimate sacrifice. Over the years, the Foundation has provided immediate financial assistance to the families of fallen agents and extended support to the injured or ill.

On September 22, 2023, Honoring the Green took place, where we had the opportunity to join and contribute to their impressive fundraising efforts. The event not only provided a fun day of golf but also served as a platform to connect with others.

 

It was an excellent experience for me and my teammates. Even though I don’t play golf very often, it’s always a fun time when I do. To me, the golf game was not just about winning but about the joy of playing and the camaraderie shared with colleagues, friends, and family. The emphasis was on enjoying the game and contributing to a noble cause, irrespective of whether I win or lose. It’s the fellowship and collaboration with one another that makes the game enjoyable.

The event itself was impressive, as it was not just a golf outing but a means of supporting a charitable cause. The funds raised over the years underscored the growing success of the event in making a significant impact on the lives of Border Patrol families. I had the opportunity to meet some wonderful people who help protect our country and those who have helped bring migrants at the border. I met many active and retired border patrol personnel, who work long hours, to guarantee a safer and more positive environment here in the US. Their stories of what they have seen over the years, and how they helped so many people, were a further inspiration. At the end of the day, it’s all about fostering safety, security, and continuity in our everyday lives.

Did I win the game? Does it matter?

No, it really doesn’t. My team and I had the opportunity to have a D-Fend Solutions tent at the very end of the golf course, where we offered our colleagues a great Bloody Mary. We were happy to contribute to the BPF, as they raised a significant sum from sponsors like us.

It was a wonderful experience, and I am looking forward to participating again next year.

Drone tracking methods and the associated technology are constantly evolving, but there is an important capability that many security teams are currently overlooking…

Drone detection apps have popped up in recent years. Most of these are simple user interfaces that integrate witdrone tracking & pilot locationh radars, radio frequency systems, or Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS–B).

One notable exception is AirMap, an aeronautical data & services provider that enables app users to “view publicly-shared flights happening around the world.” This can be helpful, but what about rogue drones that are not reported/publicly shared?

Radars have been a traditional favorite of security teams, but a DroneDJ article correctly notes that many radar systems possess limitations, making it difficult for organizations to effectively monitor urban or sensitive environments:

“Radar is best used in open areas as trees and other ground objects can show up on the radar, creating false readings. Many radar systems today have a vertical detection range of about 10 to 30 degrees, which is not enough when trying to detect drones flying at all sorts of heights.”

D-Fend Solutions’ white note, “Drone Detection Technologies: Traditional vs. RF Cyber,” highlights the advantages and limitations of other traditional drone tracking technologies, such as electro-optical, directional finders and acoustic.

Must-Have Drone Tracking Feature

Radio frequency (RF)-based, cyber-takeover solutions track the communication signals used by commercial drones, without false positives or the need for line of sight. It is then possible to determine the type of drone and its position with GPS accuracy. This includes the take-off position near the pilot in real-time.

This often-overlooked feature, which is NOT available via many of the traditional drone tracking solutions, is a must-have.

For instance, for military forces engaged in constant asymmetrical warfare with terror groups, merely detecting rogue drones, and even mitigating them, is not enough. Terrorists can easily order another cheap commercial drone to replace the one that was lost. Stopping this potentially deadly cycle requires quickly discovering the location of the terror cell(s) launching the drones.

Border guards and prison personnel face unending smuggling attempts via drone. Tracking and then mitigating these drones is crucial for preventing dangerous contraband from entering, but if the pilots are not located, attempts will continue.

Security personnel evaluating C-sUAS systems should carefully consider the pros and cons of the different types of drone tracking systems and ensure that their eventual pick offers geolocation of the drone pilot.

Read more:

RF drone detection

EnforceAir, a counter-drone system

 

Effectively keeping borders safe from rogue drones has long been a challenging mission.

Rogue or unauthorized drones are increasingly used to smuggle contraband, such as weapons or drugs, from one country into another. Some illegal trafficking organizations also use small, unmanned aerial systems (sUASs) to scout for weaknesses in the fence, wall or perimeter protection, so they can smuggle or traffic people across the border.

Overcoming these challenges is difficult for border security agencies, in part because borders are usually long and can be delineated by mountains, shorelines, or densely populated urban areas.

Never Boring on the Borders

The drone threat has become more difficult and potentially deadly for border agencies in certain regions and smugglers in other countries are certainly paying attention. Drug cartels in southern Mexico are now strapping drones with explosives and grenades, in an effort to harm their enemies and law enforcement personnel, according to an article this month in Business Insider:

Tweaked commercial drones are now part of Mexican drug cartels’ arsenal for attacking enemies and smuggling drugs into the US, according to recent reports and cartel operatives interviewed by Insider.

Families in Aguililla have been reporting bomb-strapped drones flying over their homes since early this year, in a new tactic used by cartels to fight for their turf.

The latest attack occurred in Tepalcatepec, a municipality in southwestern Michoacán state, on May 4, when a large group of armed men — reportedly members of the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG) — used drones loaded with C4 explosives and shrapnel to attack a group of enemies.

A similar attack occurred a month earlier, in which two local police officers were injured by a drone in Aguililla. Mexican Defense Secretary Luis Crescencio Sandoval González confirmed the attack and said weaponized drones have also been found in Guanajuato and Jalisco, two states with a strong CJNG presence.

Controlling the Border Drone Threat

Border agencies realize that controlling and capturing drones is critical: it has been necessary for obtaining intelligence,seizing illegal drugs and stopping surveillance of the fence and border personnel. With explosive devices entering the picture, it is even more important to control drones and land them safely away from the fence or wall, border towers, vehicles, civilians, etc.

Agencies seek a C-sUAS anti-drone solution that will autonomously fend-off rogue drones, or land them safely in a designated area. The ideal system should effectively prevent the type of collateral damage caused by kinetic or jamming solutions. It must empower border security agencies to retrieve drone payloads being carried by rogue drones, especially explosives, plus identify and track the location of the drones’ take-off positions and remote-control operators.

Full operational flexibility is required for the various border counter-drone scenarios, so systems that can be deployed in both static and mobile, on-the-move configurations are in demand. Command and Control (C2) capabilities that fuse sensor data from multiple C-sUAS into one user interface extend the counter-drone range, without compromising usability.

As the drone border threat continues to evolve, border agencies will continue evaluating next-generation counter-drone technology.

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