A two-day workshop on Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS) took place at Bleak House last week, aimed at strengthening Gibraltar’s preparedness against threats from uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). The event was organised by the Office of Civil Contingencies and delivered by Mike Henman, a C-UAS specialist.

The workshop, based on the latest C-UAS doctrine from the UK’s National Protective Security Authority, brought together key stakeholders from multiple sectors. Participants included representatives from the Royal Gibraltar Police, Gibraltar Fire & Rescue Service, Airport Fire & Rescue Service, Gibraltar Port Authority, HM Customs, Borders and Coastguard Agency, Gibraltar International Airport, Environmental Agency, Directorate of Civil Aviation, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, Headquarters British Forces Gibraltar, Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron, Royal Gibraltar Regiment, RAF Gibraltar, Gibraltar Defence Police and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Designed to address the growing concerns surrounding UAS threats, the workshop provided delegates with a deeper understanding into the risks posed by UAS and practical strategies to mitigate them. Attendees received training on the latest UAS technologies, emerging threats, and effective physical security measures to reduce vulnerabilities.

Reflecting on the training, Mike Henman said: “It was great to work with such a wide range of stakeholders on the latest C-UAS security best practice. With UAS constantly evolving, it is more vital than ever that we work together across agencies to address risks and embrace opportunities offered by the technology.”

The Minister responsible for Civil Contingencies, The Hon Leslie Bruzon MP, expressed gratitude for the successful event, stating: “I am very grateful to the Civil Contingencies Coordinator and his team for organising this workshop, and I also thank Mike Henman for delivering the training. As we have widely seen over the last few years, drones have rapidly evolved into a significant security threat. It is therefore essential that we remain proactive in addressing these challenges. This workshop has provided our agencies with the latest knowledge and tools to develop strategies to detect, mitigate, and respond to UAS threats.”