A two-day counter-UAS workshop was held last week at Bleak House, aiming to enhance Gibraltar’s preparedness against drone-related threats. The training, organized by the Office of Civil Contingencies and led by C-UAS specialist Mike Henman, focused on the evolving risks posed by drones and the latest strategies to mitigate them.
The workshop provided participants with insights into the latest UAS technologies, potential security vulnerabilities and effective countermeasures. Discussions also covered best practices for detecting and neutralizing drone threats, with a strong emphasis on inter-agency cooperation.
Henman highlighted the importance of collective action, stating:
“It was great to work with such a wide range of stakeholders on the latest C-UAS security best practice. With UAS constantly evolving, it is more vital than ever that we work together across agencies to address risks and embrace opportunities offered by the technology.”
Minister for Civil Contingencies, Leslie Bruzon, emphasized the necessity of proactive measures against drone threats, saying:
“As we have widely seen over the last few years, drones have rapidly evolved into a significant security threat. It is therefore essential that we remain proactive in addressing these challenges. This workshop has provided our agencies with the latest knowledge and tools to develop strategies to detect, mitigate, and respond to UAS threats.”
The training was based on the UK’s National Protective Security Authority’s latest counter-UAS doctrine and brought together representatives from multiple agencies, including the Royal Gibraltar Police, Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service, Airport Fire and Rescue Service, Gibraltar Port Authority, HM Customs, Borders and Coastguard Agency, Gibraltar International Airport, Environmental Agency, Directorate of Civil Aviation, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, Headquarters British Forces Gibraltar, Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron, Royal Gibraltar Regiment, RAF Gibraltar, Gibraltar Defence Police and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
With drone technology advancing rapidly, workshops like this play a crucial role in ensuring Gibraltar’s security forces remain equipped to handle emerging threats in the aerial domain.
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Post Image Credit: Gibraltar Chronicle
