This presentation examines how traditional physical security models—built around fixed perimeters, access control, and ground-based threats—are increasingly ineffective against the rapid evolution of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). It explores how commercially available drones have transformed the threat landscape by enabling low-cost, highly adaptable aerial surveillance and strike capabilities that bypass conventional defenses. Drawing on recent operational examples and emerging trends, the session highlights critical vulnerabilities across military installations, critical infrastructure, and domestic security environments. Participants will gain insight into the operational characteristics of sUAS, the gaps in current detection and response frameworks, and the growing need for integrated counter-UAS (C-UAS) strategies. The presentation emphasizes layered defense approaches, including sensor fusion, electronic warfare considerations, and interagency coordination, to address these challenges.
