High-level workshop on the current state of counter UAS systems

On 4 November 2024, EUROCONTROL organised a high-level workshop which brought together over 160 experts to discuss the state-of-the-art of counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), looking at their advantages and limitations, and discussing the way forward for the aviation sector.

Anticipation, collaboration & governance key themes discussed at the Workshop

Participants explored how best to collaborate and find a common way forward to ensure airspace security and safety and safeguard critical infrastructures.

C-UAS systems comprise various technological and operational functions aimed at monitoring, detecting and identifying unauthorised UAS activities. They play a key role in countering threats posed by unauthorised or nefarious drones with malicious intent – both of which pose an increasing threat to aviation.

Key themes identified in the pre-event survey were:

• concerns regarding the detection of technologically enhanced drones, especially those designed to evade detection
• the need for regulations to support testing without undue restrictions
• the serious challenge posed by careless or malicious users, even if most UAS operators follow guidelines
• the need for secure unmanned traffic management (UTM) systems for civil use – and innovative solutions for military contexts was also highlighted
• the fact that legislation is struggling to keep pace with C-UAS and UAS technology advances in AI and cybersecurity, complicating as a result the safe deployment of C-UAS measures and enhancing the risks such as collateral damage or interference
• the importance of standardisation and effective information exchange among military and civil users in improving interoperability and situational awareness (clearly, sector-specific regulations are essential to address C-UAS challenges in sensitive environments such as airports and other critical infrastructure)
• the risks that C-UAS operations can pose, especially when neutralising threats (collateral damage, jamming, ground interference, systems damage, etc.)

Using these additional insights, the workshop:

• facilitated collaborative discussions and exchanges among participants and speakers
• encouraged open dialogue, active engagement and sharing of diverse perspectives and observations
• identified key areas in research and policy that deserve special attention and further discussion in future fora and platforms
• underscored the importance of anticipation and collaboration across multiple fields, as well as solid governance connecting various sectors and stakeholders and enabling them to coordinate and manage effectively counter-UAS efforts

The discussions and presentations provided valuable insights into the current state and future directions of C-UAS technologies and strategies, highlighting the need for continued innovation and cooperation.

As a next step, EUROCONTROL’s Civil-Military Cooperation Division plans to create a dedicated C-UAS Group, taking the initiative to support Member States in their C-UAS activities and developments. The details and ToRs of this group are being discussed.