Leidos and Homeland Security Collaboration
Tom Bell, CEO of Leidos, discussed the company’s partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) during a conversation regarding border security and public safety. He highlighted their involvement in securing significant events like the FIFA World Cup and explained the technology they utilize to detect and mitigate drone threats.
Matthew Boyle, the Washington Bureau Chief at Breitbart News, asked Bell about Leidos’s role in ensuring security at various high-profile events, including the Super Bowl and the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“We’re very proud of our service to the Department of Homeland Security and, really, to others beyond that,” Bell remarked. “Our systems and products have been integral to presidential parades and securing major events such as the Super Bowl for many years.”
He specifically mentioned the FIFA World Cup as another instance of their contribution.
“We played a significant role in assisting the DHS with the security for the FIFA World Cup that took place this past summer, which was a tremendous success,” Bell noted.
“Secretary Mullin might elaborate on this, but there were certainly challenges and threats that we managed to combat effectively with our technology, along with the expertise of DHS,” he added.
Bell then explained how Leidos’s systems can identify drones amidst benign flying objects.
“What I mean by what we bring to the party is that we have both active and passive surveillance systems that differentiate between a bird and a drone,” he said.
“This distinction is crucial because, while many birds are harmless and abundant during events, drones pose a serious security concern that we need to address,” he continued.
Additionally, Bell outlined the company’s reliance on non-kinetic systems.
“We not only have detection capabilities but also solutions to handle those drones,” he stated. “Our significant investment in non-recurring development focuses on non-kinetic effects.”
“This approach is vital, particularly in urban and suburban environments,” he added. “Using kinetic means isn’t feasible, so our non-kinetic solutions effectively neutralize drones while still distinguishing them from birds.”
As a closing remark, Bell expressed enthusiasm for ongoing collaborations with federal agencies.
“We are eager to continue working with the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and other agencies interested in homeland defense and security using non-kinetic effects,” Bell concluded.
