Global Security and Intelligence Studies Volume 2, Issue 1, Fall 2016 | Page 73
An Assessment of Lone Wolves Using Explosive-Laden Consumer Drones in the United States
invention and innovation phase. Explosive-laden consumer drones are an unlikely
terrorist tool in near-term attacks, but variables such as types of targets and standoff,
drone payload capacities and drone defense mechanisms can influence the likelihood
of lone wolves employing such methods of attack.
Feasibility of the use of Explosive-laden Consumer Drones
To date, there has not been a terrorist attack in the United States involving a
consumer drone carrying explosives, though similar plots exist as far back as 2011, as
revealed in the FBI investigation of Rezwan Ferdaus (Finn 2011). As consumer drones
become more accessible, affordable and sophisticated, security concerns continue to
grow. Consumer drones vary in dimensions, capabilities and cost. Table 1 includes six
popular drone models currently on the market, listing characteristics of capabilities
relevant in a terrorist attack involving an explosive-laden drone. All six are equipped
with a camera and can only operate in dry conditions.
Table 1: Select List of Commercially Available Drones and Relevant Factors
Model
Weight
(kg)
Payload
(kg)
Flight Time
(min)
Range
(m)
Max Speed
(mph)
Price
Blade 350 QX2 1 0.2 10 1,000 32 $285–435
3DR IRIS+ 0.9 0.2 16 800–1,000 40 $720–865
DJI Phantom 2
Vision +
DJI Phantom 3 Professional
1.2 0.2 25 600 33 $1,150–1,730
1.2 0.3 28 1,900 35 $1,440–1,730
Walkera Scout X4 1.7 0.5–1.0 25 1,200 40–50 $1,010–1,300
Yuneec Q500 Typhoon
1.1 0.5 25 600 54 $1,300–1,590
Source: Abbott et al., Hostile Drones, 5.
Depending on the type of target and desired end state, these factors differ
in relative importance. Terrorist targets fall into three distinct categories: long-term
static targets, temporary static targets, and mobile targets (Abbott et al. 2016, 15). Lone
wolves in the United States have plotted against or attacked each type of target. Several
variables influence suitability of different drone models and likelihood of success. As
these characteristics continue to evolve for optimal drone configuration and utility
and capabilities continue to improve, these factors will alter how terrorists may employ
a consumer drone in an attack.
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