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Latest articles and analysis on counter-UAS technology and drone warfare
Counter-UAS Explained: What CUAS Means and Who Can Deploy It | Airsight
The US counter-UAS market is rapidly expanding, projected to exceed $4 billion by 2026, with increasing authority delegated to state and local agencies via the SAFER SKIES Act. Federal agencies like FEMA, DHS, and TSA are actively investing in and testing C-UAS technologies, moving beyond a purely military focus. The standard operational framework for all C-UAS systems is Detect, Track, Identify, Mitigate (DTIM).
Counter-Drone Technology 2026: What Works, What's Legal, What's Next | Airsight
Federal funding for counter-UAS technology is rapidly expanding, with over $1.1 billion allocated to state and local law enforcement by 2027, driven largely by security concerns for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The counter-UAS process is defined by a four-phase DTIM workflow (Detect, Track, Identify, Mitigate), with detection being the most legally straightforward phase. RF sensors and radar are the primary technologies currently employed for drone detection, each with unique capabilities and limitations.
For First Responders, Faster Adoption of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Means Stronger Physical Security
The Science and Technology Directorate’s (S&T) National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) is actively supporting the rapid adoption of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) by first responders. NUSTL has released program documentation and templates to aid agencies in establishing safe and effective sUAS programs, addressing a lack of aviation expertise within these organizations. Decreasing costs and relaxed FAA regulations are key drivers of this increased adoption.
DSET Co-Hosts “Taiwan Shield” Roundtable, Calls for Enhanced Taiwan–Europe Counter-UAS Cooperation - Research Institute for Democracy, Society and Emerging Technology
A roundtable discussion co-hosted by DSET and several international organizations focused on bolstering Taiwan's counter-UAS capabilities through enhanced cooperation with European partners. Taiwan has prioritized counter-drone systems for critical infrastructure, but faces challenges in acquisition planning and industrial capacity. Lessons from Ukraine – adaptability, layered defense, and integration – are considered crucial for Taiwan's strategy.
Flytrap 5.0 Counter-Drone Exercise Shapes NATO Air Defense Doctrine | TheDefenseWatch.com
The Flytrap 5.0 exercise, conducted by U.S. and U.K. forces, focused on refining NATO's counter-drone doctrine along its eastern flank. The exercise tested integrated air defense systems emphasizing layered defenses against low-cost, sophisticated drones. Key areas of focus included enhanced detection, tracking, and electronic warfare capabilities.
Cheap Missiles, Not Drones, Will Win the Next Air War
The article argues that the battlefield in Ukraine demonstrates a shift away from drone dominance towards the effectiveness of faster, missile-like drones and low-cost missiles for both offense and defense. Russia is adapting Shahed drones with turbojet engines, outpacing slower propeller-driven interceptors, while Iran has developed a cost-effective missile (358) capable of engaging a wide range of aerial targets. Western defense strategies are criticized for continuing to prioritize propeller-based drones despite these developments.
DroneShield and Terma Sign Strategic MOU to Advance Layered Counter-UAS Capabilities
DroneShield and Terma have signed an MOU to integrate their counter-UAS technologies, focusing on layered defense systems. The collaboration aims to improve detection, classification, and response capabilities through AI-enabled sensor fusion and interoperability. Target markets include Denmark, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region.
How Exposed are Key U.S. Airports, Oil refineries, and Nuclear Power Plants to Drone Threats?
A significant vulnerability exists within US critical national infrastructure (CNI) regarding drone threats, with the vast majority of key sites lacking comprehensive counter-UAS protection. Addressing this gap requires approximately $189.6 million in initial investment for layered RF detection and non-kinetic mitigation systems at 104 critical sites. Legislative action, like the SAFER SKIES Act, and improved inter-agency coordination are crucial for effective mitigation.
NATO tests layered counter-drone defences in Romania
NATO recently concluded Exercise Eastern Phoenix 26 in Romania, the first 'Layered Counter-Uncrewed Aerial System Initiative Crucible,' testing a layered defense against drones. The exercise involved 500 personnel, 215 technical systems, and focused on integrating sensors, command & control, and effectors to counter drone swarms, particularly over the Black Sea. Ukrainian expertise contributed to evaluating system performance against real-world operational conditions.
Australia boosts investment in counter-drone capabilities - Asian Military Review
Australia is significantly increasing its investment in counter-UAS capabilities, allocating up to A$7 billion (US$5 billion) under the 2026 Integrated Investment Program. Funding will support both directed energy (laser) and kinetic interceptor drone development, focusing on countering small drones, swarms, and larger one-way attack platforms. Contracts have been awarded to Australian companies AIM Defence and Sypaq Systems to advance these technologies.