Motorola Solutions Buys Israeli Drone Defense Firm D-Fend For $1.5 Billion
Translated & summarized from Calcalist by baba
Motorola Solutions acquired Israeli drone defense firm D-Fend Solutions for $1.5 billion. D-Fend's technology disables unauthorized drones for security purposes, though it doesn't counter fiber-optic-controlled drones. Experts debate the high acquisition price, with some suggesting strategic reasons beyond current capabilities. D-Fend's founder, Zohar Halami, will lead Motorola's drone defense efforts, aiming for global dominance in the sector.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Motorola Solutions acquired Israeli drone defense firm D-Fend Solutions for $1.5 billion.
- D-Fend's technology disables unauthorized drones for internal security and event protection.
- The acquisition price is high, as D-Fend's tech doesn't counter fiber-optic-controlled drones.
- Experts suggest strategic reasons for the acquisition, including preventing competitor access.
- D-Fend founder Zohar Halami will lead Motorola's drone defense division.
- The company faced funding challenges and pandemic-related setbacks before the sale.
Motorola Solutions has acquired D-Fend Solutions, an Israeli company specializing in drone defense technology, for $1.5 billion. D-Fend, based in Ra'anana, developed a system capable of disabling and safely landing unauthorized drones without causing harm. This technology is primarily designed for internal security, border protection, and safeguarding sensitive facilities and large public events.
The acquisition price has raised questions, as D-Fend's technology does not directly counter the growing threat of fiber-optic-controlled drones, which are immune to traditional frequency jamming. These drones have proven highly effective in conflicts like the one in Ukraine and are increasingly used by groups like the Houthis. Motorola Solutions CEO Greg Brown stated that D-Fend's technology complements their critical solutions, providing unique aerial space protection for global customers.
Experts offer various perspectives on the high valuation. Major General (res.) Amiram Levin suggests Motorola might have acquired D-Fend to prevent competitors from gaining its capabilities or to leverage its team's future development potential. An anonymous drone industry executive noted that while fiber-optic drones are a major concern, D-Fend's solution is effective against civilian drones posing threats to airports and critical infrastructure. Major General (res.) Giora Eiland praised the technology's unique ability to take control of drones without line-of-sight or radar, particularly in communication-congested environments.
D-Fend Solutions, founded about a decade ago by Zohar Halami, has raised approximately $67 million and employs around 300 people. Halami, who now holds a senior executive position at Motorola Solutions, aims to expand D-Fend's capabilities and establish it as a dominant force in drone defense. The company's technology identifies unauthorized drones, disrupts their communication, and lands them safely, operating entirely through cyber means. While D-Fend can identify fiber-optic drones, addressing this specific threat is an ongoing challenge, likely requiring a combination of solutions.
Despite facing numerous investor rejections, D-Fend successfully navigated funding rounds, raising capital for its development. The company experienced growth challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to workforce and salary reductions in 2023. However, the acquisition by Motorola Solutions is seen as a significant step for D-Fend, enabling further investment in research and development and positioning it for substantial global growth.