Bill Edwards, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and veteran of the Iraq War, serves as the Executive Vice President of Security Services for PMY Group. The rapid evolution of small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) has caught many by surprise, impacting security, safety, and emergency preparedness in both conflict zones and the private sector. We have seen significant advancements in military affairs and the use of social media during the Arab Spring, changing the landscape of modern combat operations.
The pace of change in the sUAS ecosystem shows no signs of slowing down. Legacy physical security programs are becoming obsolete, prompting security professionals to develop new techniques to address events like mass gatherings and drone incidents. The widespread use of first-person view (FPV) flight with commercial drones emphasizes the need for security professionals to be vigilant and proactive in preparing for potential threats.
Future developments such as swarming, autonomy, defeating electronic warfare, and operating in challenging environments like tunnels raise concerns for security professionals. Drone swarming, controlled by artificial intelligence (AI), is a growing reality with significant implications for private sector security and critical infrastructure. AI and autonomy are becoming increasingly important for both military planners and private sector security professionals.
The introduction of AI technology in drone warfare raises questions about the level of autonomy and decision-making capabilities of these systems. Recent advancements in drone technology have enabled long-range strikes and more sophisticated operations, highlighting the potential for bad actors to exploit these capabilities. The concept of drones operating without human intervention, known as “human out of the loop,” is gaining traction in military applications.
In responding to the use of drones for malicious purposes, security professionals are exploring electronic warfare strategies such as jamming to counter drone systems. Additionally, operating drones in austere and challenging environments, like the tunnels of Gaza, requires innovative solutions to maintain operational effectiveness. Legacy security programs must adapt to these technological advancements to remain relevant and effective in the face of evolving threats.
As the drone technology landscape continues to evolve, security professionals must stay informed and proactive in developing comprehensive security programs that address the challenges posed by sUAS. Understanding the implications of drone technology on security, safety, and emergency preparedness is crucial for ensuring effective responses to potential threats. By embracing new technologies and strategies, security professionals can adapt to the changing security landscape and mitigate risks in an increasingly complex environment.
