Fortem CEO Highlights Significant U.S. Counter-UAS Gaps Beyond Stadium Security
Concerns Over Counter-UAS Protections Ahead of FIFA World Cup
By DRONELIFE Features Editor Jim Magill
(This article is part of a series examining the establishment of new counter-UAS protocols in the U.S. to safeguard high-profile sporting events, such as the FIFA World Cup, and critical infrastructure from potential drone threats.)
Framework for Counter-UAS Capabilities
As officials at various levels of government work to implement counter-UAS measures in U.S. cities hosting FIFA World Cup events this summer, Jon Gruen, CEO of Fortem Technologies, has raised concerns about the adequacy of these efforts. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive drone protection not only for stadiums but also for other vulnerable locations.
Challenges in Implementation
In an interview with DroneLife, Gruen noted that the establishment of a coordinated national counter-drone system has faced delays due to jurisdictional issues and funding disputes, which were exacerbated by a recent partial government shutdown. He stated, “They’ve been looking at this for two years, so they’ve known what they’ve needed. I think what’s at risk is larger areas—meaning transit hubs.”
Government Initiatives and Legislation
In recent months, the federal government has intensified efforts to develop defensive capabilities to protect high-attendance events, including the upcoming FIFA tournament set to take place in 11 U.S. cities. In December, Congress passed the Safer Skies Act as part of the National Defense Authorization Act, which granted increased authority to certain state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) police agencies for counter-UAS operations. Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated $250 million in grants to support local entities in World Cup host cities.
Fortem Technologies’ Role
Fortem Technologies has secured a contract from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for kinetic counter-UAS technology to be deployed during World Cup events. Gruen indicated that Fortem’s DroneHunter interceptor UAVs will be utilized in most, if not all, host cities.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the surge in government activity regarding counter-UAS measures, Gruen expressed that the nation still lacks comprehensive drone protection. He pointed out that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not effectively addressed drone threats at airports and has struggled to find a complete solution to the national counter-UAS issue.
Broader Implications
Gruen highlighted that initial plans aimed to extend counter-UAS capabilities beyond World Cup sites to a wider range of critical infrastructure. However, due to funding and timing constraints, the focus has narrowed primarily to World Cup venues. He remains confident that the preparations for these sites will be adequate to mitigate drone threats.
Long-Term Solutions Needed
Gruen emphasized the need for a more extensive approach to counter-UAS protections across U.S. airspace, stating, “This is a much, much bigger problem than just a stadium site. We have ignored the counter-drone problem in the United States for too long.” He noted that limited enforcement authority has historically hindered the expansion of counter-UAS capabilities, although recent legislation has improved the situation.
Conclusion
While the landscape for counter-UAS authority has evolved, challenges remain in creating a comprehensive nationwide system. Gruen pointed out that ongoing government shutdowns and budgetary issues have created obstacles. However, he believes that the current frameworks and resources are being directed to state and local levels, with the World Cup serving as a significant test of these measures in practice.