Athena Security has introduced an innovative AI-powered X-ray detection model aimed at identifying drone components before they can be assembled or smuggled into secure areas. This launch addresses the increasing number of drone-related threats globally, empowering operators of critical infrastructure with crucial early warning capabilities.
The newly unveiled Drone Defense Detection Model is an extension of Athena Security’s AI Assisted X-ray screening suite. It is engineered to spot various drone parts—including motors, propellers, electronics, and battery packs—concealed within bags, luggage, or cargo. The initiative responds to a surge in drone incidents, with the company reporting over a 60 percent increase in major drone-related events worldwide, and a 25.6 percent rise in illegal drone incursions since 2024, according to the FAA.
“Today’s drones are inexpensive, stealthy, and scalable. Waiting for an incident is no longer a viable defense,” stated Chris Ciabarra, Co-founder and CTO of Athena Security. He emphasized that the new model aims to enable critical infrastructure operators to intercept potential threats before they breach secure perimeters, whether through backpacks, cargo bays, or onsite assembly.
The proliferation of drone activity has raised significant security concerns. Recent conflicts, such as the ongoing situation between Russia and Ukraine, have highlighted the weaponization of low-cost drones to target essential infrastructures like railways and energy systems. In October 2025, Russia deployed over 300 drones and missiles against Ukraine’s energy grid, resulting in widespread outages.
Drone disturbances have also impacted civilian aviation, as evidenced by incidents at airports in Europe. For instance, Munich Airport canceled 17 flights and delayed nearly 3,000 passengers following drone sightings in October 2025. Similarly, Copenhagen Airport experienced significant disruptions earlier that month, halting all flights for almost four hours, while another incident near Fuerteventura Airport in Spain caused delays and diversions. These occurrences illustrate the substantial ramifications that small, low-cost drones can have on both civilian and military operations.
The Drone Defense Detection Model enhances Athena Security’s X-ray capabilities by integrating machine learning technologies that can discern drone components, even when disguised within other objects. This approach mitigates risks associated with drone threats that may begin prior to assembly, as components are sometimes smuggled into restricted areas in separate pieces and combined post-security checks. Athena Security has underscored that such threats could impact U.S. airports, energy facilities, and other critical sites.
The impetus for developing this model arose from a specific incident where a client faced a drone breach that compromised their airspace. Ciabarra remarked, “One of our clients had a drone incident that compromised their airspace. They needed a way to detect small drones and their components before they became a threat. They understood the risks and asked if we could help—so we built it.”
The new detection model features high-fidelity recognition capabilities, allowing for the identification of even compact or camouflaged parts, while minimizing false positives to reduce unnecessary security alerts. Additionally, it can integrate with existing access control systems to trigger alerts or appropriate security responses. Athena emphasizes that the model is designed for scalable deployment across various checkpoints, cargo entrances, perimeter gates, and unmanned stations.
As drones become increasingly commonplace, the associated risks for a wide array of sectors expand. Locations such as border areas, ports, stadiums, data centers, and logistics hubs are now facing novel challenges that necessitate early detection mechanisms rather than solely reactive measures. Athena Security views the Drone Defense Detection Model as a complementary advancement to its existing AI X-ray technologies and is actively engaging with government agencies and private operators for pilot program initiatives.
The company is also exploring partnerships with counter-UAS (unmanned aerial systems) providers, electronic warfare specialists, and security integrators to develop layered defense systems that synergize detection with interception and response capabilities. This proactive stance aligns with the growing need for comprehensive security measures in an era marked by rapid advancements in drone technology.
Based in Austin, Texas, with additional offices in San Francisco and Jacksonville, Athena Security specializes in developing AI-driven tools designed to enhance threat detection across diverse environments. Its offerings not only include weapons detection and visitor management but extend to advanced AI X-ray systems, telepresence, and smart glasses technologies.
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