Winter Olympics Preparation: Securing Against Drone Threats
By Rory Carroll
As the Winter Olympics approaches next month, U.S. officials are ramping up their preparations to ensure the safety of American athletes and spectators from potential drone disruptions. With concerns ranging from unauthorized filming to more severe scenarios involving explosive payloads, the stakes are high.
Increased Awareness of Drone Threats
The urgency surrounding drone-related threats has intensified, particularly in light of recent global events. The ongoing war in Ukraine has showcased how drones can be used as effective weapons, prompting the U.S. government to increase funding for anti-drone measures. Alongside this, Europe has seen a rise in drone incidents that disrupt airspace, making it clear that these unmanned aircraft present a growing challenge—especially at large-scale events like the Olympics.
Acknowledgment from U.S. Authorities
Tim Ayers, the Director of the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Major Events Coordination Division, voiced the gravity of the situation. In an insightful interview, he labeled drones as “a massive issue,” indicating that both host nations and visiting security teams now consider them a persistent threat.
Monitoring Outdoor Venues in Italy
With an eye on the outdoor mountain venues for the Milano Cortina Games, Italian authorities are implementing surveillance and enforcing restrictions. Drones pose unique challenges in these settings, where they can be harder to manage and easier to hide. Although legitimate drone operations—like those used for television broadcasting—can gain approval through a formal credentialing process, security planners anticipate that fans will attempt to fly drones regardless.
Collaboration with Italian Officials
In response to these challenges, U.S. officials recently held a high-level drone symposium in Italy. This gathering aimed to establish effective communication channels and share expertise with Italian law enforcement, ensuring rapid problem-solving during the Games. Ayers emphasized that while the Italians hold the primary responsibility for security, the U.S. acts as a supportive entity by providing necessary information and assistance.
Insights from the Paris Olympics
Security officials highlighted the lessons learned from previous events, particularly the Paris Olympics. While drone-related threats were contemplated, the majority of incidents involved spectators attempting to capture unauthorized footage or engaging in activities that could resemble surveillance. In such cases, host-nation forces focused on identifying drone operators, enforcing no-fly zones, and employing counter-drone systems to neutralize threats.
Coordination and Advanced Planning
American efforts concerning Olympic security are led by DSS through a comprehensive interagency framework. This group collaborates with various agencies, including the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Defense. Planning typically starts several years before the event, with agents deployed on the ground to build relationships with local authorities and security teams.
Special Agent Becky McKnight, stationed in Milan for nearly two years, has emphasized the importance of groundwork. Her daily tasks revolve around fostering collaboration with Italian law enforcement and waterfront security personnel. She frequently visits Olympic venues across northern Italy to gain insight into the unique challenges posed by each site, noting that many areas were still under construction during her early visits.
Cyber and Other Security Concerns
Beyond aerial threats, U.S. officials are acutely aware of the potential for cyber incidents that could disrupt payment systems or ticketing access. Additionally, they expect various forms of protests—ranging from issue-driven demonstrations to general anti-Olympics sentiment—and opportunistic crime aimed at tourists.
Organizers remain committed to ensuring a secure environment for athletes and fans alike. For American citizens traveling to Italy, officials recommend enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive critical updates regarding possible disruptions and safety issues.
They also advise avoiding flashy accessories, staying vigilant, and preparing for delays. As Ayers succinctly puts it, “Patience is going to be required.”