The deployment of Robin Radar Systems’ IRIS drone-detection technology for the FIFA World Cup 2026 underscores the escalating demand for rapidly deployable, military-grade counter-UAS (C-UAS) solutions within domestic security and critical infrastructure frameworks.
Announced on 23 February 2026, the Netherlands-based company confirmed that its IRIS radar systems will be utilised by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), supported by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to protect high-visibility events and attendees across North America. For UK-based defence and security contractors, this move highlights a significant shift toward “off-the-shelf” technology that offers high Technical Readiness Levels (TRL) for rapid integration into existing security architectures.
The IRIS system is a TRL 9 capability, indicating it has been extensively validated in active conflict environments. Its technical specifications are particularly relevant for businesses involved in the C-UAS supply chain; the radar provides 360-degree situational awareness with an instrumented range of up to 12 kilometres. Designed for ease of use, the plug-and-play solution can be operational in under 15 minutes by a single operator, representing a move away from complex systems that require specialised engineering teams for deployment. This focus on “low-burden” operation is increasingly a priority for government procurement agencies looking to bridge the gap between military performance and civilian security requirements.
For prime contractors and sub-contractors within the UK defence sector, the business model adopted by Robin Radar offers actionable insights. The company has secured its position by partnering with multiple prime integrators under forthcoming procurement frameworks, reinforcing the role of specialised radar suppliers within a wider multi-sensor ecosystem that includes cameras, acoustic sensors, and command-and-control platforms. This collaborative approach reflects the growing trend of modularity in the defence market, where niche technological excellence is integrated into broader, sovereign security solutions.
The expansion of Robin Radar’s footprint follows its successful involvement in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, demonstrating a consistent track record in securing large-scale international events. As drone threats evolve to include low-cost, mass-produced systems capable of evading traditional detection, the demand for persistent, 24/7 airspace awareness continues to grow. For UK firms looking to enter or expand within the C-UAS sector, the emphasis on scalability, rapid qualification cycles, and partnership with major governmental agencies provides a clear benchmark for future growth and international competitiveness in the security and defence market.
