Security Essen: CoESS highlights private security’s role in Europe’s drone and counter-drone resilience
CoESS joined the 2nd European Drone Congress at Security Essen, organised in partnership with BDSW, to discuss how Europe can accelerate the responsible use of drones and strengthen counter-drone capabilities. Against an increasingly dynamic security environment, the event brought together industry, authorities and experts to examine how regulation, technology and operational practice can better support Critical Infrastructure Protection.
Speaking at the Congress, CoESS Deputy Director General Alexander Frank stressed the need for simpler and more predictable rules to enable high-value drone applications in private security, including surveillance, situational awareness and the protection of Critical Infrastructure. He also highlighted the importance of greater legal certainty for C-UAS services, particularly where private security may contribute beyond drone detection under clearly defined conditions. The participation of North Rhine-Westphalia Interior Minister Herbert Reul underlined the growing relevance of these questions for public security and resilience.
CoESS emphasised that Europe should better recognise the innovative capacity of private security as a partner in Critical Infrastructure Protection and public security. The sector combines operational presence, qualified personnel and increasingly advanced technologies, making it an important part of Europe’s wider security architecture. CoESS will continue to support the implementation of the EU Drone and Counter-Drone Security Action Plan and advocate for proportionate rules, legal certainty and closer public-private cooperation.