Airspace Security in 2025: Addressing the Rising Risks of Unauthorized Drones

Juvare Staff
February 18, 2025

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The rapid proliferation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, has introduced significant security challenges across various sectors. These devices, while beneficial in many applications, are increasingly being exploited for unauthorized surveillance, smuggling, and potential attacks, posing substantial risks to public safety and national security.

The Emerging Threat Landscape

Recent incidents have highlighted the vulnerabilities associated with UAS:

1. Unauthorized Airspace Intrusions: Drones have been detected in restricted areas, including near airports and critical infrastructure, leading to operational disruptions and safety concerns.

2. Criminal Exploitation: There is a growing trend of criminal organizations utilizing drones for illicit activities such as smuggling contraband across borders and conducting unauthorized surveillance.

3. Potential for Coordinated Attacks: The accessibility and ease of deployment of drones raise concerns about their use in coordinated attacks against public events or sensitive facilities.

Enhancing Preparedness and Response

To effectively counter these evolving threats, organizations must adopt comprehensive strategies that encompass:

• Situational Awareness: Implementing advanced detection systems to monitor and assess drone activities in real-time, providing actionable intelligence for decision-makers.

• Incident Management: Developing and refining protocols to respond swiftly to UAS-related incidents, ensuring coordinated actions among relevant stakeholders.

• Risk Mitigation: Investing in technologies and training to neutralize unauthorized drones and minimize potential harm to people and infrastructure.

• Crisis Communication: Establishing clear communication channels to inform the public and coordinate with law enforcement during UAS-related emergencies.

Leveraging Technology: Juvare's Integration with AirSight

To address the challenges posed by unauthorized drone activities, Juvare has partnered with AirSight to integrate advanced drone detection capabilities into its emergency management platform, WebEOC. This integration offers a comprehensive solution for managing airspace security within the broader context of incident management.

Key Features of the Integration:

• Real-Time Drone Detection and Tracking: Utilizing AirSight’s AirGuard system, users can detect and monitor drones and their operators in real-time, gaining insights into flight paths, speed, altitude, and more.

• Seamless Incident Management: Drone-related alerts automatically populate within WebEOC, allowing organizations to incorporate UAS threats into their existing incident management workflows.

• Historical Data Access: Access up to 60 days of drone flight history to conduct thorough threat analyses and develop informed strategies for future incidents.

• Geofencing and Alerts: Set custom geofences and receive real-time alerts when unauthorized drones enter restricted areas, enabling prompt response actions.

By leveraging this integrated solution, organizations can enhance their situational awareness, streamline incident response, and effectively mitigate risks associated with unauthorized drone activities.

A Unified Approach to Airspace Security

As the UAS landscape continues to evolve, staying ahead of potential threats requires a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the adoption of advanced technologies. Juvare remains dedicated to providing solutions that empower organizations to navigate these complexities and ensure the safety and security of their operations.