A series of recent contracts and product launches across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East signals rapid acceleration in the global counter-drone industry. Driven by rising drone incursions over critical infrastructure and evolving battlefield threats, nations are investing heavily in both immediate and long-term solutions to secure their airspace.
Belgium Invests in AI-Powered Interceptor to Address Urgent Threats
The Belgian Ministry of Defence has selected the BLAZE interceptor, developed by Origin Robotics, in a €50 million urgent counter-drone package. This decision comes after weeks of disruptive drone activity over Belgian airports, military sites, and critical infrastructure, which at times required the country to rely on counter-drone support from Germany and the UK.
The BLAZE system, launched in May 2025, is an autonomous interceptor designed to counter fast-moving aerial threats like loitering munitions and hostile drones. It combines radar detection, AI computer vision, and operator-approved autonomy, and is man-portable for rapid deployment.
Agris Kipurs, CEO of Origin Robotics, stated that the procurement is a “major statement of confidence” and supports a NATO ally in a pressing security environment. Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken has also confirmed a separate €500 million programme focused on sustained anti-drone capability development.
Airport Security Strengthened with Autonomous Counter-UAS Deployment
In a significant move to protect aviation infrastructure, Ondas Holdings has secured an $8.2 million order from a major European security agency to deploy multiple Iron Drone Raider™ systems at one of Europe’s largest international airports. This fully autonomous counter-UAS system uses an AI-enabled detection-to-intercept workflow, launching an interceptor drone that captures hostile UAS with a reusable net.
Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas, noted that the order “underscores the growing global confidence in our autonomous defense capabilities,” which are designed to close the gap between traditional detection systems and safe interception in high-traffic environments.
European Distribution Networks Expand with Net-Launching Solutions
ParaZero Technologies is strengthening its foothold in Western Europe with a significant purchase order from a leading Dutch defense distributor for its DefendAir systems. This multi-layered solution utilizes a patented net launcher to neutralize hostile drones, enabling safe interception in urban environments and minimizing collateral damage.
CEO Ariel Alon identified the order as part of a “growing demand for robust anti-drone defenses across the world and Europe in particular, where airspace security is paramount”.
The Rise of “Soft-Kill” Takeover Technology
In Taiwan, Chuang Hong Technology has secured exclusive distribution rights for Israeli firm Sentrycs’ counter-drone takeover technology. This “soft-kill” approach directly seizes control of a hostile drone’s navigation, forcing it to land in a designated safe area, unlike “hard-kill” methods that cause the drone to crash.
This technology is particularly valuable when a drone is carrying explosives, as a controlled landing prevents uncontrolled detonation upon impact. The company plans to target government contracts, major public works, and high-tech industrial sites seeking to prevent corporate espionage.
New Systems Address Swarm Threats and GNSS Vulnerability
Other key developments are shaping the counter-drone landscape:
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Honeywell’s Counter-Swarm System: Honeywell Aerospace Technologies has demonstrated its Stationary and Mobile UAS Reveal and Intercept system, a modular, multi-layered defense designed to counter the complex challenge of coordinated drone swarms. The system has been tested from both ground vehicles and high-altitude aerostats.
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Protecting Navigation Systems: infiniDome has launched Aura, a next-generation GNSS anti-jamming protection system. This technology is critical as GNSS interference incidents have surged over 400% in Europe and the Middle East over the past two years, threatening the navigation of both manned and unmanned aircraft.
Analysis: A Market Maturing in Response to Evolving Threats
The flurry of recent activity highlights a global market maturing rapidly in response to diverse threats. Industry trends point towards:
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Multi-layered Solutions: Modern counter-drone architectures often blend kinetic “hard-kill” interceptors with electronic “soft-kill” measures for comprehensive defense.
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The Demand for Safe Interception: In civilian settings like airports and urban areas, technologies that minimize collateral damage—such as net capture and controlled takeover—are increasingly prioritized.
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Addressing the Swarm Threat: The industry is moving beyond single-threat solutions, with new systems specifically designed to detect, track, and neutralize coordinated drone swarms.
As investment continues to flow into the sector, the integration of artificial intelligence, modular architectures, and resilient navigation will further define the next generation of autonomous air defense systems.
