Israel Bans Fiber-Optic Drones Temporarily Amid Security Concerns
Translated & summarized from Mignews by baba
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has implemented a six-month ban on drones using fiber-optic or commercial mobile networks due to security risks. The measure exempts security forces and previously permitted operators, while a committee will handle exceptions. Intelligence suggests hostile groups and criminals are exploiting these hard-to-jam drones for attacks and illicit activities, prompting a wider government strategy.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Defense Minister Israel Katz banned fiber-optic drones for six months due to security risks.
- The ban targets drones using physical wires or cellular SIM cards, bypassing radio jamming.
- Hezbollah and criminal groups are reportedly using these drones for attacks and smuggling.
- Security forces and previously permitted operators are exempt from the new drone restrictions.
- The ban is part of a larger government plan to counter drone threats, including import controls.
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz has issued a temporary security order banning the use of drones controlled via fiber-optic cables or commercial mobile networks. The restriction, effective immediately, will last for six months as an interim measure while permanent protective mechanisms are developed, according to The Times of Israel.
The new regulations specifically target unmanned aerial vehicles that receive signals through physical wires or use cellular SIM cards instead of standard radio frequencies. These types of drones are difficult to disrupt with conventional electronic warfare methods, making them a significant threat to sensitive targets.
Exemptions to the ban are in place for operations conducted by security forces, the military, and intelligence agencies. Individuals and entities holding official permits from the Israel Civil Aviation Authority prior to the order's enactment will also be allowed to continue flying their drones. A special committee will be established to review private applications and exceptional cases.
The Defense Ministry cited intelligence indicating that hostile groups, including Hezbollah, are actively employing such technologies for espionage, assassination attempts on high-ranking officials, and attacks within Israel. Additionally, criminal organizations have been using drones with wired communication for smuggling and internal conflicts.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the security cabinet approved the initiative following consultations with the National Security Council and intelligence services. This ban is the first step in a broader government plan to combat the drone threat, which also includes import restrictions and new customs control measures.
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