Enabling the next generation of infrastructure security
Critical infrastructure operators are increasingly exploring how unmanned systems can improve resilience, strengthen preparedness and deliver faster operational decision-making across society’s most important assets.Across Europe and beyond, operators responsible for energy facilities, ports, transport hubs and telecom infrastructure are facing growing pressure to maintain security, continuity and operational awareness in increasingly complex environments.
At the same time, expectations for faster response and better situational understanding continue to rise.
For many organizations, Drone As First Responder (DFR) concepts are becoming part of the answer.
By enabling remotely operated drones to launch rapidly from fixed locations, operators can gain immediate aerial visibility during incidents, alarms or operational disruptions. This allows teams to verify situations faster, improve coordination and reduce unnecessary risk exposure before personnel arrive on scene.
The value extends far beyond emergency response alone.
Drones are increasingly being explored as operational tools supporting inspection, perimeter monitoring, infrastructure assessment and real-time situational awareness across critical environments. Thermal imaging, live video and automated flight paths provide operators with access to information that can improve both safety and operational efficiency.
As infrastructure systems become more digitalized and interconnected, many organizations now see unmanned systems not as experimental technology, but as part of the next generation of infrastructure security and operational resilience.
The conversation is no longer about whether drones will become integrated into critical infrastructure operations. For many operators, the question is how quickly scalable, trusted and operational capability can be implemented.
These are some of the topics that will be explored at IXES2026 – the INTERPOL Unmanned Expert Summit.
Authorities, infrastructure operators, technology providers and operational experts will come together to discuss how unmanned systems can strengthen security, preparedness and resilience across society’s most important assets.
Read more and apply to attend:
https://6xglxny7g1.apb.spinupwp.site/ixes2026/
