Counter-drone technology joins Motorola Solutions’ public safety portfolio as demand for airspace protection grows
Motorola Solutions has completed its $1.5 billion acquisition of counter-drone technology provider D-Fend Solutions. The deal brings D-Fend’s RF cyber-takeover technology into Motorola Solutions’ public safety and security portfolio.
“Safety on the ground demands security in the air,” said Greg Brown, chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions. “D-Fend’s field-proven counter-drone technology is a powerful complement to our mission-critical ecosystem, providing differentiated airspace protection for our customers around the world.”
Counter-Drone Technology Joins Public Safety Portfolio
D-Fend develops technology designed to detect and mitigate unauthorized drones. Its system uses radio frequency cyber technology to identify and take control of a drone. It can then direct the aircraft to land in a designated area.
The approach differs from counter-UAS methods that use kinetic force or jamming. According to Motorola Solutions, D-Fend can address unauthorized drones without disrupting nearby communications or approved drone operations.
D-Fend technology has been deployed at airports, critical infrastructure, stadiums, military bases and borders in more than 30 countries.
Motorola Solutions plans to integrate D-Fend into its existing public safety ecosystem. The company says the combination will give front-line teams greater situational awareness and tools to evaluate drone risks. Where legally permitted, operators could also mitigate unauthorized aircraft.
The acquisition adds another drone-related component to Motorola Solutions’ public safety strategy. The company has also invested in public safety drone manufacturer BRINC. The companies have worked to connect drone operations with Motorola Solutions technologies, including radios and command center software.
Zohar Halachmi will remain CEO of D-Fend Solutions. He will also serve as Motorola Solutions’ senior vice president, Counter-Drone Solutions, leading its counter-drone platform.
“Joining Motorola Solutions marks an exciting new chapter for D-Fend and the customers we serve,” said Zohar Halachmi, co-founder and CEO of D-Fend Solutions. “By combining our RF cyber technology with Motorola Solutions’ trusted global reach, we plan to scale faster and transform how airspace is protected worldwide.”
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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