Scalable Solutions in Counter-Drone Security

With drone technology advancing continuously, sites are under pressure to keep up with new threats – an expensive, time-consuming, and risky task.

That's why it’s so important that any site looking to protect its perimeters considers a scalable, multi-layered security solution – and to get the most value out of their investment as possible.

But what does this mean? Why do security teams need a scalable solution? And what benefits do these solutions bring to sites across industries? These are exactly the questions that we set out to answer with our Head of Development, James Barnes.  

Read on to learn more.  

Why are scalable solutions so important?

“By upgrading a system mindfully, you can create a system that’s greater than the sum of its parts.”

The core concept of scalability in counter-drone security is simple: strengthen site security with an adaptive stance – one that can evolve to meet new security threats as they arrive. As security threats, like drones, continue to evolve at a breakneck pace, this stance becomes more and more essential.  

A scalable ecosystem of sensors offers a low-cost entry into the world of enhanced security: one complete with an easy upgrade path for unparalleled visibility.

As security investments become outdated, they lose their effectiveness. Replacing them is expensive, but the risks of ineffective security solutions are too high to ignore. With scalable solutions, however, sites can create a wider ecosystem of tools that complement each other. This means they don't need to rely solely on previously installed systems.

What’s more, sites that begin their journey to enhanced security may choose to integrate one type of sensor – enhancing visibility by taking advantage of the unique capabilities that each sensor type brings. As James says:

“A purely optical system can be seamlessly upgraded with the addition of radar or RF sensors. Straightforward and cost-effective, this process simply involves acquiring the additional sensor, and integrating it into your existing system.”

Scalable systems in action: a hypothetical

Understanding the need to strengthen security, a small manufacturing plant that uses optical sensors now becomes interested in adding radar sensors. However, if these two sensors can’t communicate, then sites may detect the same drone as multiple threats. Without accurate data, responses might not be as effective as possible – impacting site safety in the process.  

Instead, choosing sensor-agnostic solutions that share intelligence with a single operating overview ensures that operators can always access the most accurate, up-to-date intelligence possible.  

What to consider before implementation

While scalable solutions are incredibly effective for secure sites, many factors need to be considered beforehand. Every site is different. An optimised solution for an airport will be completely different than for a stadium – even two airports may vary greatly.

These considerations can be both regulatory and practical. If your site is interested in adopting a scalable security solution, some of the biggest considerations that you should be aware of include:  

Know your budget.

While scalable solutions offer a cost-effective approach to site security, your budget will inform your initial starting point and the best solution that you can achieve to protect your site.  

Your budget may dictate if you’re able to integrate one type of sensor or multiple sensors, or if you can include advanced measures like integrated AI analytics. Understand what this is before you begin looking for solutions.

Understand the specific restrictions of your site

There are so many factors that can impact the effectiveness of drones on your site. It could be the level of noise that limits the effectiveness of drones, or it could be that a high population of buildings interferes with radar sensors.  

Understanding the unique challenges and restrictions of your site can help ensure that the right sensors are introduced – optimising your solution and protecting investments at the same time.  

Introduce a single integrated operating picture

Understanding current incursions used to involve manually analysing several individual sensor outputs. Time-consuming and complex, this process also involved data overlay and other challenges limiting the speed and effectiveness of responses.

Taking advantage of a single integrated operating picture, users can access clear and accessible insights at a glance, as data is collated from all sensors into one distinct platform.  

Our very own command and control platform, FACE®, provides just this. Learn why FACE® is trusted by some of the world’s leading sites, including one of the busiest international airports: London Heathrow.

Collaborate with experts

Collaborating with drone detection experts can be a great option for any site looking to enhance its security. With the experience needed to truly tailor solutions to your premises, experts can ensure that you get the greatest value and strongest site security possible.  

At OSL, we tailor bespoke solutions by following a tried-and-tested process. We start with a general understanding of the physical and regulatory landscape relevant to your site, before exploring the most likely threats.  

Dedicated to creating safer spaces

In the face of constantly evolving security threats, scalable sensors aren’t just a consideration, but a necessity.

Our solutions offer a sophisticated and adaptable approach to monitoring and responding to evolving threats, providing clients with the peace of mind that their security infrastructure is robust and future-proof.  

We’re committed to helping sites of any size stay ahead of emerging security threats with the most effective counter-drone measures available. To learn more, why not read some of our latest case studies today?