New screening model identifies drone components before they reach secure areas
Athena Security has launched a new AI-powered X-ray detection model designed to identify drone components before they can be assembled or brought into restricted areas. The system responds to a growing number of drone-related incidents around the world and aims to give operators of critical infrastructure more time to act before threats emerge.
The company unveiled the Drone Defense Detection Model as an extension of its AI Assisted X-ray screening suite. It is designed to detect motors, propellers, electronics, battery packs, and other drone parts hidden inside bags, luggage, or cargo.
“Today’s drones are inexpensive, stealthy and scalable. Waiting for an incident is no longer a viable defense,” says Chris Ciabarra, Co-founder and CTO of Athena Security. “Our goal is to give critical infrastructure operators a chance to stop threats before they reach the secure perimeter—whether the threat arrives by backpack, cargo bay, or is assembled onsite.”
Growing Drone Activity Raises Security Concerns
Drone activity has increased at a rapid pace in recent years. The company notes that major drone incidents worldwide have risen more than 60 percent. The FAA has reported a 25.6 percent increase in illegal drone incursions since 2024.
Conflicts abroad have highlighted how inexpensive drones can be used to damage infrastructure or disrupt public services. Both Russia and Ukraine have deployed low-cost drones to strike targets such as rail lines, energy systems, and logistics depots.
In October 2025, Russia launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Ukraine’s energy grid, causing outages across several regions.
Drone disturbances have also affected airports throughout Europe. Munich Airport canceled 17 flights and halted travel for nearly 3,000 passengers during a seven-hour shutdown after drone sightings in October 2025. Copenhagen Airport experienced a similar disruption the month before, stopping all takeoffs and landings for nearly four hours. Another incident near Fuerteventura Airport in Spain caused delays and flight diversions.
These events show how small, low-cost drones can create large-scale consequences for both civilian and military operations.
Detecting Drone Components Before They Become a Threat
The new model expands Athena Security’s X-ray technology beyond traditional weapons detection. The system uses machine learning to identify drone parts—even if they are disguised or packed inside other objects.
Many drone threats begin before the aircraft is assembled. In some past cases, drone components were smuggled into restricted areas in small pieces and put together after security checkpoints. Athena Security states that similar risks could affect U.S. airports, energy facilities, and other critical sites.
The company built the new model after a client experienced a drone breach.
“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,” shares Ciabarra. “They understood the risks and asked if we could help—so we built it.”
Features of Athena Security’s Drone Detection Model
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High-fidelity feature recognition with the ability to identify even compact or disguised parts
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Low false-positive tuning to reduce unnecessary alarms
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Integration with access control systems that can trigger alerts or security responses
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Scalable deployment for checkpoints, cargo entrances, perimeter gates, and unmanned stations
Meeting the Needs of Modern Security Operators
As drones become more common, risk expands for many sectors. Border areas, ports, stadiums, data centers, logistics hubs, and other high-traffic sites face new challenges. Security teams are moving toward early detection rather than relying on reactive countermeasures.
Athena Security views its new model as a natural addition to existing AI X-ray deployments. The company is also in discussions with government agencies and private operators to begin pilot programs.
In addition, Athena is exploring partnerships with counter-UAS companies, electronic warfare providers, and security integrators to build layered defense systems that combine detection with interception and response.
About Athena Security
Athena Security develops AI-powered tools for threat detection, including weapons detection, visitor management, AI X-ray, telepresence, and smart glasses technologies. Its products protect facilities, people, and key assets in public and private environments. The company is based in Austin, Texas, with offices in San Francisco and Jacksonville.
More information is available at www.Athena-Security.com.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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