In an exciting development, D-Fend Solutions has expanded its participation in the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Detection and Mitigation Research Program. D-Fend Solutions, a leader in counter-drone detection and takeover technology, successfully tested its EnforceAir system at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, marking its deployment at a second airport site. The FAA program aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of airport and National Airspace System (NAS) operations. This significant achievement for D-Fend Solutions showcases the effectiveness of their product and its ability to generate reliable and accurate data, paving the way for further evaluation in other operational settings. With its vision of supporting safe and secure drone adoption, D-Fend Solutions is playing a crucial role in protecting airports from rogue drone threats.
D-Fend Expands Footprint in FAA Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Research Program
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Introduction
In an effort to enhance the safety and efficiency of airport and National Airspace System (NAS) operations, D-Fend Solutions has announced its extended participation in the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Detection and Mitigation Research Program. As a leader in radio frequency (RF), cyber-based, non-kinetic, non-jamming, counter-drone detection and takeover mitigation technology, D-Fend Solutions aims to protect airports from rogue drones and ensure the smooth operation of the NAS. Their core Counter-UAS system, EnforceAir, has already undergone successful testing at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) and Atlantic City International Airport (KACY), demonstrating its effectiveness in detecting and mitigating potential risks posed by errant or hostile UAS operations.
Background
The rapid evolution and proliferation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also known as drones, present unique challenges and risks to airports and the NAS. The unauthorized use of drones near airports can disrupt flight operations, compromise safety, and potentially lead to catastrophic incidents. It is crucial for airports and aviation authorities to develop effective technologies and strategies to mitigate this threat and ensure the continued safe operation of the airspace.
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Program Overview
The FAA’s Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Research Program focuses on the development, testing, and deployment of technologies that can detect and mitigate potential risks posed by rogue or unauthorized UAS operations. The program aims to ensure that these technologies do not adversely impact the safe and efficient operation of the NAS. It also evaluates the compatibility of the selected technologies with airport operations, aircraft navigation, and air traffic services.
EnforceAir System Testing at Second Airport
D-Fend Solutions’ EnforceAir system, a core Counter-UAS technology, has undergone successful testing at two airport sites as part of the FAA’s program. The system was initially selected for evaluation at Atlantic City International Airport (KACY) and subsequently deployed at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR). These testing phases have demonstrated the reliability, accuracy, and effectiveness of the EnforceAir system in detecting and mitigating rogue drone threats.
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Core Counter-UAS System: EnforceAir
EnforceAir is a cutting-edge Counter-UAS system developed by D-Fend Solutions. It utilizes radio frequency (RF) and cyber-based technology to detect, track, and mitigate unauthorized drone activity. The system’s non-kinetic and non-jamming approach allows for the identification and control of rogue drones without causing harm to the operator, the drone, or innocent bystanders. EnforceAir’s advanced features and capabilities make it a valuable tool for airports, military facilities, public safety agencies, and other critical infrastructure environments.
Selection for FAA Program at Atlantic City International Airport
D-Fend Solutions’ EnforceAir system was selected for evaluation at Atlantic City International Airport (KACY) as part of the FAA’s Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Research Program. The selection of EnforceAir highlights its effectiveness in addressing the risks associated with rogue drone operations near airports. By participating in the FAA program, D-Fend Solutions aims to contribute to the development of comprehensive UAS detection and mitigation strategies that can be implemented at airports across the country.
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Program Objectives
The FAA’s Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Research Program has several key objectives. These objectives include:
- Enhancing the safety and efficiency of airport and NAS operations by effectively detecting and mitigating rogue drone threats.
- Ensuring that the implementation of UAS detection and mitigation technologies does not negatively impact the safe operation of the airspace.
- Evaluating the compatibility of selected technologies with airport operations, aircraft navigation, and air traffic services.
- Identifying and addressing potential risks and challenges associated with the integration of UAS into the airspace.
- Promoting the development of innovative solutions to enhance UAS detection and mitigation capabilities.
Evaluation Criteria
To ensure the effectiveness and compatibility of the EnforceAir system, the FAA’s program evaluates several key criteria. These criteria include:
- Detection Capability: The system’s ability to accurately and reliably detect unauthorized UAS in the vicinity of airports.
- Mitigation Capability: The system’s ability to effectively neutralize the threat posed by rogue drones without causing harm to the operator, the drone, or innocent bystanders.
- Compatibility: The system’s compatibility with airport operations, aircraft navigation, and air traffic services.
- Reliability: The system’s overall reliability in real-world operational scenarios.
- Data Accuracy: The accuracy and reliability of the data generated by the system for situational awareness and decision-making purposes.
Program Expansion and Achievements
D-Fend Solutions’ participation in the FAA’s Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Research Program demonstrates the company’s commitment to developing innovative solutions for protecting airports from rogue drone threats. The successful testing of the EnforceAir system at Atlantic City International Airport (KACY) and Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) showcases its effectiveness and reliability. This program expansion is a significant achievement for D-Fend Solutions and validates the vision of enabling a safe and secure drone-powered society.
CEO Statement
Zohar Halachmi, Chairman and CEO of D-Fend Solutions, expressed his satisfaction with the progress the company has made in the FAA program. He emphasized the importance of enabling a flourishing drone-powered society while defending against rogue drone threats at airports. Halachmi’s statement highlights the company’s dedication to promoting the safe and secure adoption and integration of drones in aviation.
Company Milestones and Launch of EnforceAir2
In addition to the expansion of its participation in the FAA program, D-Fend Solutions has achieved several significant milestones in recent months. The company has expanded its US team and launched EnforceAir2, the next generation of its Counter-UAS technology. These milestones further demonstrate D-Fend Solutions’ commitment to innovation and advancing the capabilities of UAS detection and mitigation systems.
In conclusion, D-Fend Solutions’ participation in the FAA’s Airport UAS Detection and Mitigation Research Program and the successful testing of its EnforceAir system at multiple airport sites highlight the company’s expertise in countering rogue drone threats. By developing effective and reliable technologies, D-Fend Solutions aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of airport and NAS operations, enabling the safe integration of drones into the airspace.