Raytheon Tech Helps Stadium Operators ID Nuisance Drones; Todd Probert Quoted

Raytheon is one of the companies introducing new technologies aimed at identifying drones and the operators flying such unmanned aircraft systems over sporting events and concert venues, Defense One reported Wednesday.

“Drones are becoming a significant nuisance factor for everything from concert venues to football venues … where everybody is concerned about it,” said Todd Probert, vice president of command and control, space and intelligence at Raytheon’s intelligence, information and services business.

He said the company has performed “beta tests” at concert venues and stadiums and initiated “a lot of exploratory-type of activities” to test the market for counter-drone systems, which could be used by law enforcement authorities and venue operators to identify and apprehend individuals operating the drones over outdoor events.

“The solutions we’re putting in the field do two things; they identify where the drone is, which is important, but they also identify where the source of control of the drone is,” Probert said.

Raytheon said the use of its technology has resulted in the capture of at least four individuals flying the drones during a concert.