Athena Security unveils AI X-Ray Drone Defense System

AUSTIN, Texas —In response to increasing drone threats, Athena Security has developed a drone defense system, the newly unveiled Drone Defense Detection Model.

Integrated into the company’s AI Assisted X-ray screening system, the model detects and flags drone components, including those hidden within cargo or luggage, before they can be assembled or reach secure perimeters.

According to Athena Security the frequency of major drone incidents worldwide has risen more than 60%, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has reported a 25.6% increase in illegal drone incursions since 2024.

“Today’s drones are inexpensive, stealthy and scalable. Waiting for an incident is no longer a viable defense,” says Chris Ciabarra, Co-founder and CTO of Athena Security. “Our goal is to give critical infrastructure operators a chance to stop threats before they reach the secure perimeter—whether the threat arrives by backpack, cargo bay, or is assembled onsite.”

Athena Security’s new AI x-ray model extends its advanced x-ray screening suite beyond conventional threats like knives and guns. With advanced machine learning designed to classify drone components or detect signatures within carry-on or cargo items, Athena’s Drone Detection System can flag suspicious items before a drone is even assembled inside a secured zone.

In other countries, military-grade drones have been smuggled into restricted territories in pieces and later assembled for attacks. A similar threat exists for civilian settings such as airports. However, to date, no systems have been developed to actively screen for this risk in the U.S. By enabling x-ray systems to recognize both assembled and unassembled drone components, Athena Security helps airports, energy facilities, and other critical infrastructure stop potential threats at the door—long before they enter restricted zones.

“One of our clients had a drone incident that compromised their airspace. They needed a way to detect small drones and their components before they became a threat,” shares Ciabarra. “They understood the risks and asked if we could help—so we built it.”

Athena is actively engaging with federal, state, and municipal agencies to pilot deployments of its AI X-ray Drone Detection Model. The company is also exploring partnerships with counter-UAV (C-UAV) vendors, electronic warfare providers, and security integrators to develop end-to-end layered systems combining detection, interception, and physical response.