The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) have launched Falcon Peak, a major counter-unmanned aerial system (c-UAS) experiment aimed at boosting U.S. military base defense. Conducted at Eglin Air Force Base and scheduled to run until September 19, 2025, the exercise is being described as one of the most extensive c-UAS trials ever held in the United States.
At the heart of Falcon Peak is the simulation of hostile drone intrusions targeting U.S. installations. To replicate these threats, unmanned aerial systems are being flown daily from Santa Rosa Island between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. The effort allows forces to stress-test multi-layered defense systems against realistic small-drone incursions in contested operational settings.
The experiment incorporates a wide range of advanced detection, tracking, and neutralization technologies, testing how they can be integrated into layered defenses. The aim is to validate new methods for safeguarding key facilities against swarming drone attacks.
For safety, the 96th Test Wing has implemented maritime exclusion zones near the test range and is issuing active advisories on VHF Channel 16 and HF 2182 kHz. These measures ensure secure operations while Falcon Peak challenges U.S. forces with one of the most pressing threats on the modern battlefield.
