By The Growing Drone Threat: A Global Concern and Sri Lanka’s Strategic Response
In recent years, the rise of drones has posed an escalating security concern worldwide, with their potential to be weaponized and used in malicious attacks. The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is not immune to this growing threat, which has led to a concerted effort to upgrade its defense capabilities, particularly when it comes to countering the use of drones in Sri Lankan airspace. The growing use of commercially available drones, which can be easily modified to carry explosives or surveillance equipment, presents a formidable challenge to global security—and Sri Lanka is no exception. The SLAF’s proactive response to this evolving threat is both innovative and urgent, as drones become an ever more prevalent weapon on the world stage.
The Rising Global Threat of Drones
Drones are increasingly being used in conflicts and security breaches globally, with alarming frequency. From military combat zones to urban centers, drones have proven their ability to disrupt, damage, and even destroy critical infrastructure. One of the most notable examples of this came in 2018 when drones were used in an assassination attempt on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. A pair of drones carrying explosives were aimed at the leader during a public speech, highlighting the potential of commercial drones as tools of political violence.
Additionally, drones have been used in several high-profile attacks against oil facilities and airports, with one of the most significant incidents occurring in September 2019. A drone strike on Saudi Arabia’s oil processing facility, Aramco, caused significant damage and disruption to the global oil supply chain, temporarily halting the production of millions of barrels per day. This attack, claimed by Houthi rebels, demonstrated how drones—often small, low-cost, and difficult to detect—can inflict considerable damage, even against high-value, well-guarded targets.
As drone technology continues to advance, the potential for both state and non-state actors to employ drones for malicious purposes has grown exponentially. This emerging threat is not just confined to geopolitical hotspots; it’s a concern for nations across the globe, including Sri Lanka, where the rise of drones is forcing military and security agencies to rethink their approach to airspace defense.
Sri Lanka’s Vulnerability and Response
For Sri Lanka, the issue of drone security has become particularly pressing. The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), responsible for policing the nation’s vast airspace, has recognized that small drones—often available commercially—can be just as dangerous as traditional weapons. According to Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, the commander of the SLAF, drones pose a significant security risk due to their ability to carry explosives or conduct surveillance in sensitive areas.
“What makes drones particularly dangerous is their size and accessibility,” Air Marshal Edirisinghe explained. “Even a small drone, carrying just 10 grams of explosives, can cause major damage to sensitive locations. It’s an emerging threat that cannot be ignored.” The impact of drones can range from targeted attacks on government buildings, critical infrastructure, or military bases, to simple disruption of public events and civil order.
To defend against such threats, the SLAF has been working to enhance its radar and surveillance capabilities. The Air Force is currently seeking to acquire advanced jammers and radar systems designed to detect and neutralize drones. These systems would help to locate low-flying, small objects like drones, which are often too small for traditional radar systems to track.
Technological Advancements in Counter-Drone Measures
The SLAF’s response to the drone threat is multifaceted. On one hand, they are investing in technology such as jammers, which can disrupt the communication between the drone and its operator, effectively taking control away from malicious actors. Additionally, radar systems are being introduced that are specifically designed to detect drones, even those flying at low altitudes or operating at night.
However, the challenge lies not only in developing the necessary technology but also in obtaining the funding to secure it. Financial constraints continue to be a significant hurdle for the SLAF, which must balance its defense budget with its ongoing modernization efforts. “We need to secure the technology that will allow us to detect and neutralize drones, but we are still facing financial limitations that impact our ability to procure new equipment,” Air Marshal Edirisinghe admitted.
Despite these challenges, the SLAF has made it a priority to address the drone issue head-on, particularly given the potential threat drones pose to national security. The SLAF’s foresight in recognizing the growing drone problem sets an example for other nations that may still be underestimating the scope of this emerging threat.
A World Awakened to the Threat of Drones
Sri Lanka is not alone in its concerns about drones. Many countries across the globe are taking similar steps to combat the growing drone threat. In the United States, for instance, the Pentagon has invested heavily in counter-drone technologies. The U.S. military has deployed systems that use high-powered lasers to disable enemy drones, while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has introduced a range of measures to monitor and control drone use in U.S. airspace.
In the United Kingdom, authorities have also recognized the need for drone defense systems. In 2018, a drone-related incident at Gatwick Airport grounded flights for days, disrupting hundreds of thousands of passengers. This event prompted the British government to introduce new legislation aimed at preventing drones from entering restricted airspace and to invest in technologies that could detect and neutralize drone threats.
The growing concern around drones is not confined to military use. In the realm of terrorism, drones have become a tool for groups seeking to carry out attacks without the need for large, sophisticated weaponry. Commercial drones, once intended for recreational or commercial purposes, are now being adapted for much more nefarious uses.
The Path Forward for the SLAF
As Sri Lanka moves forward in countering the drone threat, it is clear that the SLAF’s efforts will need to evolve alongside the rapid advancements in drone technology. The Air Force’s focus on acquiring jammers, radars, and other countermeasures is just the beginning. With drones becoming cheaper, more accessible, and more capable of carrying payloads, the need for comprehensive airspace security is more urgent than ever.
Air Marshal Edirisinghe’s leadership in recognizing the threat posed by drones demonstrates the SLAF’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging risks and ensuring that Sri Lanka’s airspace remains secure in the face of rapidly evolving technology. “Our focus is on keeping our skies safe from threats like drones, and we are doing everything we can to equip ourselves with the tools we need,” he concluded.
The global rise of drones as a weapon of choice for both state and non-state actors has set a new precedent for military and security forces worldwide. In Sri Lanka, the SLAF’s efforts to adapt and respond to this changing threat landscape reflect a broader trend of nations becoming more aware and proactive in safeguarding their skies against this emerging danger. As drone technology continues to evolve, Sri Lanka’s ongoing investment in countermeasures will be crucial in maintaining the safety and security of the nation’s airspace.
