WASHINGTON – The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) unveiled three new guides to assist critical infrastructure owners and operators in understanding and mitigating risks associated with unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). These products are part of CISA’s Be Air Aware™ resources and include “Unmanned Aircraft System Detection Technology Guidance for Critical Infrastructure,” “Suspicious Unmanned Aircraft System Activity Guidance for Critical Infrastructure Owners and Operators” and “Safe Handling Considerations for Downed Unmanned Aircraft Systems.”
“The new risks and challenges from UAS activity demonstrate that the threat environment is always changing, which means our defenses must improve as well,” said CISA Acting Director Madhu Gottumukkala. “CISA’s Be Air Aware™ resources are designed to empower critical infrastructure owners and operators with the information they need to better safeguard their systems and assets.”
As the commercial and recreational use of UAS continues to soar, the frequency of UAS operating near critical infrastructure is expected to rise significantly. While most UAS activity is mostly harmless, some flights may go undetected, raise suspicions, or result in a downed UAS within a facility’s perimeter. To address these potential threats, CISA has developed a suite of UAS security resources. These resources are designed to help critical infrastructure owners and operators enhance their security planning and make recommendations to better manage UAS-related risks.
“The release of these guides is a significant step in supporting the actions mandated under Executive Order 14305. By addressing the escalating UAS threats, including the frequent incursions at critical infrastructure facilities, we are taking proactive measures to protect our nation’s vital assets” said Steve Casapulla, CISA Executive Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security. “These guides provide critical infrastructure owners and operators with meaningful information and resources to fortify their security posture, enabling them to address UAS threats to public gatherings and critical infrastructure.”
Developed in collaboration with government partners, UAS subject matter experts, and industry representatives from across critical infrastructure sectors, these resources are part of CISA’s Be Air Aware™ resources and aim to enhance awareness of the cyber and physical threats posed by UAS as well as provide practical options to manage UAS risks to critical infrastructure and public gatherings.
These guidelines are another key component of CISA’s observance of Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month. This dedicated timeframe raises awareness about the vital role of our nation’s infrastructure and the importance of ensuring its security and resilience. These guides underscore CISA’s unwavering commitment to providing actionable guidance and support to safeguard critical infrastructure from emerging threats.
CISA encourages organizations to utilize the information and recommendations in each guide to seamlessly integrate UAS considerations into existing security and emergency response plans.
For more information on CISA’s role and resources, read our blog – CISA is urging critical infrastructure to Be Air Aware – and visit Be Air Aware™.
###
About CISA
As the nation’s cyber defense agency and national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the digital and physical infrastructure Americans rely on every hour of every day.
Visit CISA.gov for more information and follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram.