The 2nd Anti-Terrorist Congress was held on April 9-10, 2024 at Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University in Warsaw. This year we all met in an international formula, with the active participation of NATO experts, international security institutions and representatives of government as well as the local authorities.
The congress participants included several hundred representatives of scientific and expert centres, security institutions, the security and technical security sector, as well as public utilities and critical infrastructure.
The Representative of The UAV Chamber Poland
A representative of the Chamber gave a presentation on the topic “The use of unmanned systems in potential terrorist attacks on critical infrastructure.
The Chamber also served as a Content Partner of the Anti-Terrorism Congress
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States have published “Cybersecurity Guidance: Chinese-made drones for infrastructure needs.” The goal of the release is to raise awareness of the risks associated with Chinese drones and provide critical infrastructure and local and territorial partners (SLTT) with recommended cyber security measures to reduce risks to networks and sensitive information.
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has introduced legislation that allows the government to expand the legal basis for accessing data held by companies in China. The use of Chinese drones in critical infrastructure operations potentially threatens the security of information that may be transferred to PRC institutions. This guidance outlines the potential vulnerabilities of networks and sensitive information when these drones are operated without proper cybersecurity protocols, as well as the possible consequences.
Threats associated with Chinese drones
Chinese drones produced for critical infrastructure pose a serious threat to the national security, economic and public health of the United States. Critical infrastructure sections such as the energy, chemical and communications industries are increasingly relying on drones for various missions to reduce operational costs and improve personnel safety. However, the use of Chinese drones carries serious risks.
The government of the People’s Republic of China has introduced legislation that allows it to access and control data stored by companies in China. This increases the risk of unauthorized access to systems and data, posing a serious threat to critical infrastructure. Therefore, it is important for organizations to use secure and U.S.-manufactured drones that minimize the negative impact on cyber security.
Cybersecurity recommendations
Critical infrastructure organizations should use drones designed with security in mind and manufactured by U.S. companies. The Cyber Security Guidelines offer cyber security recommendations that organizations should consider as part of their drone program, policies and procedures. Here are some recommendations to consider:
Secure communications
Ensure secure communications – Ensure that communications between the drone and the control system are secure and cannot be intercepted by third parties. Use wireless communication protocols that are encrypted and secure.
Up-to-date software
Maintain up-to-date software – Update drone software regularly to ensure the latest security patches and fixes. Outdated software can be vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Drone access
Secure drone access – Limit access to drones to authorized users only. Use multi-level authentication and strong passwords to prevent unauthorized use of drones.
Monitoring
Monitor and detect threats – Use monitoring tools and threat detection systems to identify potential cyberattacks and suspicious activity against drones.
Competency
Staff training – Conduct regular training for staff on cyber security and drone awareness. Staff knowledge is key to ensuring safe drone use.
Summary
The dangers of Chinese drones in the critical infrastructure sector are real and serious. Organizations should act with caution and consider cybersecurity recommendations to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to networks and sensitive information. The use of drones designed with security in mind and manufactured by U.S. companies is critical to protecting national security, economic security and public health. Concerted efforts to ensure the security and resilience of critical infrastructure are very important.
Want to know more? visit CISA’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) website.
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On January 23, 2024, the European Parliament will host a debate on the use of drones in urban environments. Members of the Board of the Polish Chamber of Unmanned Systems will take an active part in the event.
Drones currently play a key role in modern technologies, and their potential in urban environments is enormous. Given the densely populated urban areas, the use of drones can bring numerous benefits. The proper use of these machines can help promote greener forms of transportation of goods and people, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, shorten delivery times and generate new jobs.
Benefits and challenges of drones in urban environments
Green transportation and emissions reduction
Drones can contribute to greener transportation in urban environments. Airborne “unmanned cabs” can revolutionize the way people are moved, reducing the number of traditional vehicles on the road and thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, drones can deliver goods more efficiently, reducing delivery times and reducing the number of traditional delivery vehicles on the streets while maintaining a safe distance and established urban order.
Creating new jobs
The development of drones in urban environments can create new jobs. The drone industry is growing rapidly, and the use of drones in various fields, such as goods delivery, building inspection and security monitoring, is opening up new employment opportunities. The creation of new jobs is an opportunity for both industry professionals and those interested in developing the technology.
Security and privacy
However, the deployment of drones in urban environments comes with some challenges. Security and privacy are key factors that must be considered when implementing these systems. Proper regulations and procedures must be in place to ensure safe drone flying and privacy protection for city residents.
Regulatory and technological challenges
Deploying unmanned flight systems in urban environments requires solving a number of regulatory and technological challenges. It is necessary to involve industry leaders and local representatives in solving these challenges.
Costly drone certification process
Drone industry leaders and local representatives are concerned about the prospect of a costly drone certification process. There is a need to engage in fixing regulatory shortcomings and identifying technological, infrastructural, financial and qualification gaps. Consultation with local and regional authorities is essential to establish standard drone operation scenarios and geographic and social constraints.
Public acceptance
Public acceptance is a key factor that requires additional strategies to normalize drone operations over cities. Consulting with residents and incorporating their opinions into the process of introducing drones into urban spaces is crucial. Introducing appropriate regulations and procedures can help increase public trust and acceptance of drones as part of the urban environment.
Military and political situation
When implementing drones in the urban environment, the military and political situation of the various regions of Europe should also be taken into account. For areas bordering military areas, special rules and procedures must be taken into account to ensure the safety of drone operations.
Debate in the European Parliament
On January 23, 2024. a debate on the use of drones in urban environments will be held at the European Parliament, organized by MEP Jan Olbrycht, who also serves as chairman of URBAN Intergroup. Among the guests invited to the debate is Luc Tytgat, currently acting Managing Director of EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency). Also taking part in the discussion will be representatives of the drone industry and local authorities, such as Kazimierz Karolczak, Chairman of the Board of the Upper Silesian and Zagłębie Metropolitan Area, Justyna Siekierczak and Mariusz Naumienko, members of the Board of the Polish Chamber of Unmanned Systems (PISB). In addition, participants include the Marshal of the Podkarpackie Region, Wladyslaw Ortyl, and the President of the Committee of the Regions, as well as Vassilis Agouridas of UIC2 (The Urban-Air-Mobility Initiative Cities Community). The debate will provide an opportunity to discuss various aspects related to the prospects and challenges of drone use in the urban context.
We are looking forward with great interest to the speeches of Mr. Luc Tytgat – Managing Director of EASA and Ms. Magda Kopczynski, Director General, DG Move, European Commission.
The debate is open to anyone interested in topics related to the widespread deployment of drones for flight in urban environments will begin at 2:00 pm in the Altiero Spinelli building and will last until 4:00 pm.
In addition, we are pleased to announce that until January 17 there is an opportunity to send suggestions and answers to the question that is the main theme of the debate: “How to effectively seize the opportunity for the widespread introduction of drones for flight in urban environments?”
If you have additional questions or need additional information, please contact the organizing team directly using the email address: zuzannaewa.tatara@europarl.europa.eu. We sincerely encourage you to actively participate in the discussion and share your valuable insights.
EVENT SCHEDULE
14:00 Opening – Jan Olbrycht – Member of the European Parliament, Chairman of URBAN Intergroup
14:05 Local and regional experience:
Kazimierz Karolczak, President of the Management Board of GZM Metropolis, Poland
Justyna Siekierczak, Mariusz Naumienko – Board Members of the Polish Chamber of Unmanned Systems
Ivo Cré, Director of Policy and Projects, POLIS
Deputy Mayor of Paris, TBC
Q&A-questions, discussion
14:50 Policy segment
Karima Delli MEP, Chairman of the Committee on Transport and Tourism, TBC
Luc Tytgat, Acting Executive Director of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency
Magda Kopczynska, Director General, DG Move, European Commission
Q&A – questions, discussion
15:50 Summary – Jan Olbrycht MEP, President of the URBAN Intergroup
Summary
The use of drones in urban environments has the potential to bring numerous benefits, such as green transportation, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, job creation and increased delivery efficiency. However, drone deployment also comes with regulatory, technological and social challenges. It is necessary to involve industry leaders and consult with residents to find optimal solutions and realize the potential of drones over cities. The debate in the European Parliament is an important step in this process and provides an opportunity to discuss the issue.
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November 14, 2023 in Tbilisi, the Polish drone manufacturer – Specter Solutions, the Georgian Aviation University and the Georgian company promoting innovation – December 32 signed a cooperation agreement. The common goal is to develop the civilian unmanned aerial systems (UAS) sector in Georgia. The plan envisages the creation of 300 new jobs.
“We decided to enter the Georgian market, seeing the potential in terms of access to resources and the great willingness to cooperate. The increasing efforts of the European Union, government support and initiatives, as well as the geopolitical, strategic location enabling access to world markets make Georgia a key market for us,” explains Sebastian Konkol from Specter Solutions.
During the event, a Specter 1 drone, designed and manufactured by Specter Solutions in Poland, was presented.
dron Spectre Solutions
Subject of the agreement
Under the agreement, the parties agreed to jointly develop solutions that will pave the way for the integration of drones with the public services sector in Georgia. The shared vision is to deploy versatile vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones throughout the country to more effectively perform various public utility missions, including search and rescue, disaster response, power line inspections and medical supplies. Such a system is intended to be a less costly complement helicopter fleet.
sygnatariusze porozumienia / signatories of the agreement
Signatories of the agreement
Specter Solutions
A Polish drone manufacturer that has developed over the last 10 years a mature vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platform with a flight range of 140 km.
December 32
A company that connects eastern and western markets and its goal is to introduce innovative technologies to Georgia and stimulating the local innovation ecosystem.
Georgian Aviation University
The only higher education institution in Georgia that has been educating professional pilots in pilot training, engineering and air transport management since 1992.
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