NATO allies push for open, networked counter-drone systems to unify airspace security and outpace evolving threats.

Since NATO's inception, military leaders have recognised that connecting capabilities across forces and domains strengthens defence. By establishing common standards with allied nations, countries reduce logistical complexity whilst accelerating technological innovation. This principle applies as much to counter-drone technology as it does to more traditional miliary equipment.

Modern counter-drone solutions must build networks, not stand-alone systems, and they must be founded on open architecture principles to deliver the flexibility needed to counter various threats based on location, risk profile, and the ever-evolving drone landscape. These are operational necessities that determine whether a system can adapt to real-world scenarios and integrate effectively across agencies and domains.

Network-enabled systems for wider protection

Network-enabled counter-drone systems begin with a single node from which seamless scaling should be possible. Defence forces must then be able to incorporate additional nodes, data or sensor feeds from other departments and agencies — including those of allied nations — creating a comprehensive airspace security picture across vast areas of concern or interest.

Consider a drone smuggled across a border on a lorry, then activated deep within the country. A law enforcement agency hundreds of miles away can still detect and respond because their nodes contribute to the same real-time network.

Systems should be architected to enable public safety officials’ access (within strict security protocols) to this broader network, maintaining safety of citizens, soldiers and critical infrastructure. This transforms isolated detection points into a unified, powerful network.

Open architecture to match the evolving threat profile

Open architecture represents something distinct from network enablement — it's about the command and control (C2) software's fundamental design. DedroneTracker.AI exemplifies this approach: the same software platform can ingest data from any sensor type and fuse it using AI-driven algorithms to deliver accurate situational awareness.

The consequence is genuinely plug-and-play deployment. Operators can create counter-drone solutions tailored to a location-specific risk profile, using existing sensors whilst maintaining the flexibility to adapt as drone threats inevitably evolve. Whether the setup includes radar, radio frequency, electro-optical/infrared, or acoustic sensors, the C2 integrates them seamlessly.

Software-first = future ready

Both network-enabled capability and open architecture depend on underlying software that can evolve in line with the dynamically changing threat environment. DedroneTracker.AI maintains field relevance through regular updates, expanded sensor libraries, refined algorithms, and enhanced integration capabilities.

Defence contractors require solutions that integrate cleanly into existing programmes whilst maintaining export readiness. Network-enabled systems with open architecture deliver minimal integration friction, straightforward scaling, and NATO compatibility. Future defence programmes will favour systems that evolve through software enhancements and maximise operator impact.

Learn more about Dedrone’s role during the DSEI keynote: Open, Connected, Intelligent - September 9, at 16:00.