Energy Plants Under Drone Threat
Oil and gas refineries are increasingly facing the evolving threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
Oil and gas refineries are increasingly vulnerable to the evolving threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Operating in high-risk environments, even a minor disruption at such facilities can have severe consequences, including safety hazards, operational downtime, environmental risks, and significant financial losses. A single breach could potentially cripple operations, leading to millions of dollars in damages, lost productivity, and costly repairs.
One of the main challenges posed by drones is the potential for collisions with sensitive equipment, leading to costly damage or triggering explosions or fires. Drone scan also be used for malicious purposes, such as unauthorized surveillance, smuggling, or sabotage. The widespread availability of drones has made it easier for individuals to breach secure zones, presenting significant security concerns.
The Challenge
Faced with the growing threat of unauthorized drones, a major European refinery sought a robust and adaptive counter-drone solution to safeguard both their onshore and offshore operations.
Their goals were clear: to be able to identify friends versus foes, or in other words, to detect, track, and mitigate drone threats while at the same time using their own drones for operational purposes.
By doing so, they wanted to ensure optimal airspace protection and minimal disruption to this critical infrastructure. After evaluating available solutions, the refinery decided to select a provider using Cyber over RF – the only technology able to whitelist drones by serial number, regardless of DRI (Direct Remote Identification). The customer chose Sentrycs due to its proven track record of delivering safe, scalable, and customizable C-UAS systems, offering real-time drone detection and mitigation capabilities, differentiation between friendly and unauthorized drones, and entirely autonomous operation. Throughout the entire process, the customer demonstrated excellent preparedness and professionalism. Their installation, IT, and management teams worked closely with Sentrycs, ensuring smooth and efficient system implementation from the initial site survey through to deployment.
The Solution
Site Survey and Strategic Deployment
Following the decision to proceed with Sentrycs, a joint site survey was conducted to assess the operational landscape and ensure the system met the refinery’s specific security needs. During this survey, key factors were evaluated to ensure optimal system performance. Sensor placement was strategically determined to maximize coverage across onshore and offshore areas. The team also assessed potential sources of interference, such as cellular communication towers and Wi-Fi signals, ensuring stable and consistent system operation without disruptions.
Additionally, a specialized wireless communication infrastructure that did not rely on a complex or expensive layout of cables or optical fibers was implemented. This approach ensured stable communication while significantly reducing installation costs. The system’s adaptability allowed for seamless integration into the refinery’s security framework, and the deployment of sensors at strategic points enhanced line of sight, detection ranges, and overall system effectiveness.
Unique Multi-Sensor Installation: Flexibility and Operational Advantage
As part of the deployment, several sensors were installed with a unique configuration that provided both flexibility and adaptability. The refinery’s premises were divided into two distinct areas: one area was protected by multiple sensors, while the other required a single sensor. Each sensor was connected to a modem, linked to the central server, allowing for reliable communication regardless of location.
A key advantage of this setup was the ability to disconnect a selected sensor and redeploy it on another system, making it mobile and capable of being positioned where needed most. This modular approach offered operational advantages, enabling the refinery to adjust its security dynamically based on evolving threats. This flexibility also allowed for cost-effective scaling, as additional sensors could be easily added when necessary.
System Deployment: Quick & Easy Installation
The installation process was carried out by the refinery’s own team after a short onsite training and live demonstrations conducted by Sentrycs’ experts. The ease of deployment was underscored by the minimal guidance required from Sentrycs during installation. The user-friendly design enabled the refinery’s team to handle the process independently, ensuring that security measures were quickly established without disrupting operations.
Efficient Installation & Real-Time Adjustments
The entire installation and checks process was completed in just three days, thanks to the thorough preparation and collaboration between Sentrycs and the refinery’s team. The efficiency was made possible by the site survey results, which identified optimal sensor locations, heights, line of sight, and mitigation radiuses.
Training: Ensuring Operational Independence
Dedicated onsite training was conducted to ensure the refinery’s team could easily deploy, integrate, and operate the C-UAS system. The training began with an in-depth overview of the system’s components, followed by hands-on experience for the technical team in assembling both mobile and fixed systems. This enabled the team to complete the installation process with only minimal guidance from Sentrycs’ experts. Control room staff gained hands-on experience with monitoring, detection, and mitigation processes, while a software update ensured the latest features were in use. The system’s intuitive interface and seamless integration enabled all users, from technical staff to stakeholders, to effectively oversee and manage the system’s performance, reinforcing its ease of operation.
Post-Deployment Testing and Validation
After the installation, the customer conducted a series of operational checks to assess the system’s performance. During these checks, each sensor accurately recognized drones, including the refinery’s own drones and others in the vicinity. The system demonstrated impressive identification of the threats, with sensors distinguishing between friendly and unauthorized drones at a range of up to 10 kilometers, providing comprehensive protection for both onshore and offshore areas. From the moment the system was connected, the customer expressed satisfaction with its performance and capabilities. Drones located as far as 5 to 10 kilometers away from the facility were successfully detected, reinforcing the system’s robustness and reliability in protecting critical infrastructure.
The Results: Immediate Impact onSecurity and Safety
The deployment of Sentrycs’ C-UAS system had an immediate impact on the refinery’s security, providing a reliable, adaptable solution that elevated security measures and ensured the ongoing protection of its critical operations. The system successfully detected and tracked drones within the defined area, ensuring that potential aerial threats were identified in real-time. This enhanced drone detection translated into improved operational safety, reducing risks from unauthorized drones and safeguarding both personnel and equipment. The installation of Sentrycs’ C-UAS system at this major European refinery underscores a shared commitment to operational excellence and technological innovation. As drone activity increases, such partnerships will be pivotal in securing the energy sector’s infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its resources.
Key Takeaways
Learn why one of the largest European refineries chose to deploy Sentrycs’ Cyber over RF solution for securing its critical infrastructure in an era of evolving drone threats.
- Effective Friend-or-Foe Identification – The ability to whitelist authorized drones by serial number ensured operational continuity while preventing unauthorized drone activity.
- Fast and Cost-Efficient Deployment – Thanks to its simplicity and user-friendly design, the system was installed in just three days by the refinery’s own team.
- Robust Performance – The system consistently detected and identified drones up to 10 kilometers away.
- Flexible and Scalable Architecture – Modular sensor configuration allowed the refinery to adapt its drone defense strategy dynamically, without logistical hurdles.
- Operational Self-Sufficiency – Hands-on training empowered the refinery’s team to operate, manage, and maintain the system independently, ensuring long-term effectiveness and resilience.