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08. May 2025
Drone Threat On The Rise: New Tech Steps Up To Counter Crime
Countering the Rise of Drone-Enabled Crime on the Frontlines of Security
Mike Fraietta, Co-Founder of Gargoyle Systems, joins host Randy Goers to discuss his company’s innovative drone detection technology and its role in mitigating the growing threat of drone-enabled crime. Fraietta shares insights from his recent visit to the Russia-Ukraine border, where he studied evolving “dark” drones, counter-drone technology, and operational training led by the Ukrainian Drone Command.
The proliferation of low-cost, easy-to-use drone kits has democratized access to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), making it challenging for security professionals to distinguish between “friendly” and “hostile” drone activity. As drones become increasingly ubiquitous across commercial, consumer, and military sectors, the threat landscape is shifting.
Gargoyle Systems is at the forefront of developing advanced drone detection technology. Their decentralized Drone Intelligence Network is designed to detect and track both authorized and unauthorized aerial activity, providing real-time awareness of unmanned aircraft in the skies. With a focus on scalability and integration, Gargoyle Systems enables proactive protection against unauthorized drone activity.
A recent incident at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) has sparked concerns about the U.S. Secret Service’s deployment of counter-drone technology near the airport. Democratic Representatives Rick Larsen and Bennie Thompson have raised questions about the agency’s use of counter-drone systems, citing their potential to trigger erroneous air traffic alerts.
The controversy highlights gaps in the regulation of counter-drone technology, a rapidly growing sector projected to reach $2.5 billion globally by 2028. While the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 granted DHS and the Department of Justice authority to counter UAS threats, coordination with aviation regulators remains inconsistent.
The maturing C-UAS market demands careful consideration of security imperatives versus aviation safety protocols. As agencies refine their systems, manufacturers must prioritize interoperability with aviation infrastructure. Solutions that integrate with FAA databases or employ AI-driven threat assessment could reduce risks, benefiting both security and the drone community.
Recent hearings by the US House Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs have revealed a troubling surge in unauthorized drone activity over US military installations, posing a serious threat to national security. Lawmakers are pushing for clearer drone defense policies, improved detection tools, and more coordination among federal agencies to address this growing concern.
As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that a collective effort is needed to address the challenges posed by drones in US airspace. By prioritizing interoperability, safety protocols, and regulatory clarity, we can ensure that drone technology serves as a valuable tool for security professionals while minimizing risks to aviation safety.