In 2021, Oslo Airport at Gardermoen became the stage for one of the most ambitious anti-drone trials ever held. Over the course of the event, 17 different anti-drone systems were put through their paces, with more than 170 participants in attendance.
Airport director Stine Ramstad Westby called the exercise "a completely unique experience in a global context," adding that she doubted such an event would be repeated at Oslo Airport anytime soon.
Why Anti-Drone Systems Matter
Drones have become a growing security challenge at airports worldwide. At Oslo Airport alone, a four-week monitoring period detected 125 unauthorized drone flights within the controlled five-kilometer safety zone. Beyond the nuisance factor, the rapid development of drone technology has raised serious concerns about potential misuse, including the risk of terrorist attacks .
Testing the Defenses
The Gardermoen exercise gave companies a rare chance to showcase their technologies side by side. Each system was tested to see how effectively it could detect, track, or neutralize drones in restricted airspace.
Among the handheld systems, Dark Matter Norway's “Drone Killer” stood out as the top performer. The trial highlighted how innovation in this field is moving quickly—and how airports and regulators are racing to keep pace with drone threats.
Looking Ahead
While the 2021 test may have been a one-time event for Oslo Airport, its findings will likely influence how airports around the world handle drone incursions. As drones become more capable and accessible, effective countermeasures are no longer optional—they're essential for aviation safety .
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