The University of Alabama selects D-Fend Solutions’ EnforceAir system to protect campus airspace, research infrastructure, and athletic events.
The University of Alabama has selected D-Fend Solutions as its counter-drone technology supplier. The university deployed D-Fend’s EnforceAir system to protect campus operations, critical infrastructure, and major events including football games at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Counter-Drone Technology Addresses Massive Drone Activity
The university spans 3.5 square miles with 330 buildings and nearly 50,000 students, faculty, and staff. On game days, Bryant-Denny Stadium draws over 100,000 fans. An additional 70,000 tailgaters gather on the campus Quad and surrounding areas.
During one evaluation period, the system identified well over a thousand drones operating nearby. A single EnforceAir unit provided long-range detection across the campus from an elevated position.
“D-Fend and EnforceAir have been game changers for us,” said Michael Kelley, Director of Security Technologies at the University of Alabama. “Our situational awareness has expanded dramatically. Not only do we know what is in the airspace around our campus, but we have the ability to mitigate if necessary.”
EnforceAir Chosen After Season-Long Counter-Drone Technology Trials
The university chose EnforceAir after a rigorous evaluation including season-long live trials against competing systems. EnforceAir uses RF cyber-driven takeover technology to detect and control unauthorized drones. The non-kinetic system avoids jamming that could disrupt campus communications.
The university integrates EnforceAir into its Emergency Operations Center. A Unified Command Framework enables coordination with local, state, and federal partners during major events.
“Higher education institutions face unique challenges: open environments, major public events, critical research, and evolving regulatory frameworks,” said Zohar Halachmi, CEO and Chairman of D-Fend Solutions. “EnforceAir enables proactive, non-disruptive control that aligns with both safety and operational continuity.”
More information on D-Fend is available from their website.
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