As preparations continue for FIFA World Cup 2026, more than 30 IRIS drone detection radars from Robin Radar Systems have been deployed to support counter-UAS operations across North America.
According to the company, the radars are being used by U.S. government agencies and state, local, territorial and tribal law enforcement partners to detect, track and monitor unauthorized drone activity around World Cup venues.
The deployment is part of an extensive airspace security effort surrounding the tournament, one of the largest sporting events in the world. Concerns have been raised about the scale of the challenge facing authorities, which have been tasked with protecting against unpredictable threats in distributed locations across the three home nations.
The IRIS system is designed to provide 360-degree coverage and three-dimensional airspace awareness. Robin Radar says the system can detect, track and classify small airborne objects, including fixed-wing and hovering drones that may be difficult to identify using conventional methods.
CONTENU CONNEXE : Les États-Unis sont-ils prêts à faire face à des menaces de drones lors de la Coupe du monde de football ?
Layered airspace security
The system has an instrumented range of up to 12 kilometers, providing authorities with additional time to assess potential threats and coordinate responses.
Robin Radar noted that IRIS has previously been employed in active conflict environments, including Ukraine, and said operational experience gained there has informed the continued development and scaling of the radar.
The deployment forms part of a broader counter-drone effort involving federal agencies and their state and local partners as preparations continue for one of the largest sporting events in the world.
Focus on growing drone threats
Kristian Brost, General Manager of Robin Radar North America, said the company’s systems are contributing to airspace awareness around tournament venues.
“More than 30 IRIS radars are now part of the World Cup security picture, giving agencies a real-time, 3D view of the airspace over venues and the crowds around them,” Brost said.
“Drones are the fastest-growing threat at major public events, and you can’t counter what you can’t see. We’re proud IRIS is the layer that makes that airspace visible – working alongside the agencies and integration partners defending it.”
Authorities across North America have increased investments in drone detection and mitigation capabilities ahead of the World Cup, as governments and law enforcement agencies prepare to address the risks posed by unauthorized unmanned aircraft during major public events.
CONTENU CONNEXE : Pourquoi la détection des drones est rarement la partie la plus difficile
Post Image Credit: Robin Radar
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