C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems) covers everything used to neutralise a drone: jamming, spoofing, physical capture, kinetic effectors. Before going into detail, an essential reminder: in Europe and particularly in France, the use of these means is strictly regulated and, for most of them, reserved to the State.
Legal context in France and the EU
In France, jamming radio frequencies is a criminal offence except for State services in narrow cases (article L.34-9 of the Code of Posts and Electronic Communications). GNSS spoofing is technically complex and legally restricted.
In practice, for a private actor the only authorised response is detection, documentation and calling the authorities. No "anti-drone kit" freely sold online can legally be deployed by a private company.
Effector families (informational overview)
RF jamming: disrupts remote-control, GNSS or video links. The drone returns to launch or lands.
GNSS spoofing: injects fake GPS signals to redirect a drone. Restricted to specialised operators.
Kinetic effectors (interceptor drones, nets, HPM lasers): physical neutralisation. Mostly military and state market.
Cyber: exploitation of software vulnerabilities, remote takeover. Highly model-specific, state-grade capability.
What the 2026 EU action plan changes
In February 2026 the European Commission announced the creation of a counter-drone centre of excellence, a C-UAS certification scheme and an "EU Trusted Drone" label by end of 2026. The goal: structure a European C-UAS market that remains highly fragmented.
For public buyers this will clarify what is legally usable and with what assurance level. For private actors, the doctrine will remain close to today’s: detect, document, delegate neutralisation.
What to do concretely on a private site
Deploy passive RF detection (legal, immediately operable) coupled with a VMS and a signed PDF report. Prepare the escalation channel to the authorities (police, prefecture). Log each incident in a daybook. This approach is consistent with recent French lessons learned and represents the right level for 95% of civilian sites.
FAQ
Can I buy a drone jammer for my site?
No. Possessing and using a jammer in France is an offence outside of explicit State authorisation. Several companies have tried and faced prosecution.
Are there legal "offensive" cyber solutions?
Not for the private market. Software interaction capabilities against a third-party drone are restricted to State-authorised operators.
What is recommended for a large event?
Coordinate in advance with the prefecture, deploy a passive RF detection system (often as short-term rental), train a security team, set up a direct line with law enforcement.