Motorola Solutions Finalizes $1.5 Billion Acquisition of D-Fend Solutions
Motorola Solutions Acquires D-Fend Solutions for Counter-Drone Technology
Motorola Solutions has finalized its acquisition of D-Fend Solutions, a provider of counter-drone technology, in a deal valued at $1.5 billion. This acquisition integrates D-Fend’s radio frequency (RF) cyber-takeover technology into Motorola’s public safety and security offerings.
Enhancing Airspace Security
Greg Brown, chairman and CEO of Motorola Solutions, emphasized the importance of airspace security, stating, “Safety on the ground demands security in the air.” He noted that D-Fend’s established counter-drone technology enhances Motorola’s mission-critical ecosystem, providing advanced airspace protection for customers globally.
Overview of D-Fend Technology
D-Fend Solutions specializes in technology that detects and mitigates unauthorized drone activity. Its system employs RF cyber technology to identify and take control of drones, allowing operators to safely direct them to land in designated areas.
This method contrasts with traditional counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) approaches that rely on kinetic force or jamming techniques. Motorola Solutions asserts that D-Fend’s technology can neutralize unauthorized drones without interfering with nearby communications or legitimate drone operations.
Global Deployment and Integration Plans
D-Fend’s technology has been utilized in various critical locations, including:
- Airports
- Critical infrastructure
- Stadiums
- Military bases
- Border security
These deployments span over 30 countries. Motorola Solutions intends to incorporate D-Fend’s capabilities into its existing public safety ecosystem, enhancing situational awareness for front-line teams and providing tools to assess drone-related risks. Where legally permissible, operators will also have the ability to mitigate unauthorized drone activity.
Future Directions for D-Fend Solutions
This acquisition adds a significant drone-related component to Motorola Solutions’ public safety strategy, which also includes investments in public safety drone manufacturer BRINC. The collaboration aims to integrate drone operations with Motorola’s technologies, such as radios and command center software.
Zohar Halachmi will continue as CEO of D-Fend Solutions and will also take on the role of senior vice president for Counter-Drone Solutions at Motorola Solutions, overseeing the counter-drone platform.
Halachmi expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Joining Motorola Solutions marks an exciting new chapter for D-Fend and the customers we serve. By combining our RF cyber technology with Motorola Solutions’ trusted global reach, we plan to scale faster and transform how airspace is protected worldwide.”