
Growing Shadows in the Sky:
The Escalating Challenges of a Drone-Filled World
The drone industry is right now undergoing a fundamental transformation as a leading Chinese drone manufacturer announces the removal of geofencing technology from its products, effective January 13. This decision follows a critical incident where a drone conducting vital safety operations was compromised, triggering widespread implications for airspace management, public safety, and the urgent need for counter-unmanned aircraft systems (CUAS) to protect critical infrastructure, including airports, stadiums, and other sensitive locations.
“The removal of geofencing technology by a major Chinese drone manufacturer is a wake-up call for the industry. While this move grants drone operators greater freedom, it also heightens the risk of misuse and unintentional violations in sensitive areas such as airports, military zones, and stadiums. We must confront these vulnerabilities directly”.
– Dan Hermansen, CEO of MyDefence.
The Shifting Dynamics of Drone Regulation and Security
In the U.S., over one million drones are registered with the FAA, with thousands operating daily for commercial, recreational, and law enforcement purposes (Source: DHS, FBI, FAA, and DoD Joint Statement). While the democratization of drone technology has driven innovation, it has also introduced new security risks. Geofencing, a critical safeguard that prevents drones from entering restricted areas, has historically played a key role in mitigating these risks. However, with its removal, the responsibility of compliance now rests entirely on the shoulders of drone operators.
“Many drone operators are unaware of regulations,” Hermansen adds. “This lack of awareness can lead to dangerous situations, threatening public safety, disrupting critical operations, and exposing security vulnerabilities. As a result, external counter-drone solutions are no longer optional – they are essential.”

Drone Detection Systems That Meet Tomorrow’s Needs
Industries from airports to prisons must adapt quickly to these new realities. MyDefence’s advanced counter-drone solutions, such as the radio frequency detector, Watchdog/Wolfpack and the radio frequency jammer, Dobermann offer a proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure.
The MyDefence Situational Awareness System ties these technologies together, providing operators with a centralized interface for managing drone threats. This system offers a real-time overview of drone activity and location of pilot, enabling security teams to make informed, swift decisions. By combining proactive detection with precise mitigation, the system ensures that restricted zones remain secure without disrupting legitimate operations.
For example, at an airport, a network of Watchdog detectors can monitor the perimeter and immediately alert security teams to unauthorized drones. Simultaneously, the Dobermann jammers can neutralize the threat, ensuring smooth operations and the safety of passengers and infrastructure. In prisons, where drones are used to deliver contraband, this integrated system offers a comprehensive solution to maintain control over the facility’s airspace.
Balancing Freedom and Security
The removal of geofencing technology introduces both opportunities and challenges. While it provides operators with greater freedom, it simultaneously increases the stakes for maintaining security in critical locations. By deploying advanced detection and jamming systems like those from MyDefence, facilities can adapt to these changes and stay protected against evolving drone threats.
As the drone landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for policymakers, security experts, and technology providers to collaborate in developing a secure regulatory framework. Strategic investments in technologies like Watchdog and Dobermann will be instrumental in safeguarding public safety and ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure.