Singapore Airshow 2026 Highlights New Laser and Jammer Counter-Drone Systems
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Singapore Airshow 2026 featured advanced counter-drone technology, including lasers and jammer guns, signaling a major shift in commercial aviation security priorities.
Key Takeaways
- •The counter-drone market is projected to reach USD 3.88 billion in 2026, growing at a CAGR of nearly 20%.
- •Unauthorized drone activity can cost large airports up to $6 million per hour in operational shutdowns.
- •New technologies showcased include high-energy laser defense systems and advanced mobile turret technology for rapid response.
- •ICAO and EASA have issued guidelines to help airports implement effective UAS mitigation strategies without interfering with air traffic.
The Singapore Airshow 2026 offered a clear view of aviation's future.
Alongside the latest fighter jets and commercial airliners, a new segment took center stage. This segment focused on counter-drone technology and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) mitigation. The prominence of anti-drone systems shows a major shift in commercial aviation security focus.
The Growing Airport Drone Threat
The rise of affordable drones creates significant airport drone threats. Rogue UAS incursions can paralyze air traffic operations. For a large facility, a total shutdown can cost up to $6 million an hour, according to industry analysis. This financial risk drives the demand for robust UAS mitigation solutions.
Past incidents prove the severity of this issue. The 2018 Gatwick Airport drone incident disrupted over 1,000 flights. More recently, in late 2025, several major European airports faced closures. These included Brussels, Copenhagen, and Munich airports.
In the United States, aviation officials reported 3,000 drone events near airports since 2021. This activity forced 11 aircraft to take evasive action to avoid collision. The threat is not just disruption, but also the potential for espionage or dangerous payloads.
Technology Showcase: New Anti-Drone Systems
The Airshow floor was filled with advanced anti-drone systems. These systems use multiple technologies for detection and neutralization. The global anti-drone market reflects this urgency, projected to reach USD 3.88 billion in 2026. This market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of nearly 20% through 2034.
Key technologies on display included:
- Laser Defense Systems: These systems use high-energy laser-based systems to physically disable a drone. They offer a precise, non-kinetic way to neutralize threats.
- Drone Jamming Equipment: Handheld and fixed drone jamming equipment disrupt the drone’s control signals. This forces the unauthorized UAS to land or return to its operator.
- Mobile Turret Technology: These are ground-based, often vehicle-mounted, systems. They provide a rapid-response airspace protection solution for large areas.
These systems combine radar, radio frequency (RF) detection, and optical sensors. They create a layered security approach against unauthorized unmanned aerial systems.
Regulatory and Operational Challenges
Integrating counter-drone technology into civil airspace is complex. Regulators must ensure that neutralization methods do not interfere with legitimate air traffic. Concerns exist about the potential for radio frequency jamming to affect aircraft communication systems.
International bodies are working to address these concerns. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has developed guidance material. This material assists states in protecting civil aviation infrastructure from UAS misuse. Similarly, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has published manuals. These help airports manage the growing drone threat effectively.
Major manufacturers like Boeing are also active in the counter-UAV market. Their involvement signals a long-term commitment to developing robust security solutions.
Airlines and airports must invest in comprehensive strategies. These strategies must cover detection, classification, and mitigation. The goal is to minimize flight disruptions and maintain passenger confidence. The display at the Singapore Airshow 2026 confirms that commercial aviation security is now a major technology battleground.
For global airline trends and commercial aviation news, turn to flying.flights. Track policy changes, airspace rules, and global aviation governance in the Regulatory category at flying.flights/regulatory.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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