Motorola Acquires D-Fend for $1.5 Billion to Combat Rogue Drones

Motorola Solutions Acquires Israeli Startup D-Fend Solutions for $1.5 Billion

Motorola Solutions has announced its intention to acquire Israeli startup D-Fend Solutions for $1.5 billion, a move that reflects the growing global need for systems to defend against rogue drones. The acquisition comes as governments and critical infrastructure operators worldwide face an increasing threat from unauthorized drone activity.

Recent attacks on key infrastructure, such as data centers in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and airport shutdowns across Europe, have highlighted the need for effective solutions to intercept drones without disrupting communications or causing damage. The Safer Skies Act, a U.S. law passed last year, has created a new market for drone-takeover tools such as D-Fend's technology.

D-Fend Solutions, founded in 2016, specializes in developing technology that uses radio waves to take control of rogue drones mid-flight. Its flagship product, EnforceAir, is deployed in over 30 countries, including NATO members, to protect military zones, airports, and critical infrastructure. The company's technology is also used by the U.S. departments of Homeland Security, Defense, and Justice.

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The acquisition builds on Motorola Solutions' recent purchase of Silvus for $4.4 billion, which provides secure communications and networking for drones. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026. D-Fend Solutions has posted annual revenue growth of more than 50% over the last three years, with full-year 2026 revenue expected to be $185 million.

According to research firm Mordor Intelligence, the anti-drone market was valued at $2.47 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach $8.42 billion by 2031. This growth is driven by increasing demand for effective solutions to counter the threat of rogue drones.