Dark Drones

Operating and detecting drones in demanding conditions

Januar 22.-23. 2026

 

Join other industry experts, researchers, and end-users for a two-day event on January 22. - 23. in Trondheim, Norway, where we will examine the challenges of operating and detecting drones in demanding conditions.

The event will consist of a conference part, a workshop, and a demonstration in the cold, dark waters outside Trondheim.

More information about the program, speakers, and venue will be announced before Christmas. The event is open to members and partners of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and special invitees. Others may request an invitation, but due to the topic and nature of the event, we reserve the right to select the participants.


Program Jan 22nd

Venue: Havet Arena

0830 – 0900: Coffee and mingling -

0900 – 0915: Welcome +

Welcome to Dark Drones by Frode Halvorsen / Cluster Manager Ocean Autonomy Cluster

0915 – 0930: Opening remarks and introduction +

TBA

0930 – 1030: Session One – Setting the stage: Drones in all domains – an introduction and overview +

Moderator: TBA

 

1030 – 1100: Coffee Break +



 

1100 – 1200: Session Two – Dark Drones: weather, ice, and the lack of sight +

Moderator: Sveinung Johan Ohrem / LinkedIn

Nordic USV: Nordic USV is a specialist in collecting data from the sea with unmanned vessels. https://nordicusv.com/

WaterLinked: WaterLinked develops disruptive sensor technology, enabling divers and underwater vehicles to explore and communicate underwater with greater confidence.  https://www.waterlinked.com/

SentiSystems:  SentiSystems develops GNSS-denied navigation systems that deliver both precise positioning and complete situational awareness, in real time, even in the most demanding conditions. https://sentisystems.com/

Zeabuz: Smart navigation solutions for any segment. Enhance your vessel's performance with our advanced autonomous navigational assistance software. https://www.zeabuz.com/

 

1200 - 1300: Lunch +

1300 – 1400: Session Three – Setting the stage: Detecting unwanted activities +

Moderator: TBA

Skarv Technologies: Delivers and develops machine intelligence, autonomous underwater robotics, control software, and camera solutions. https://skarvtech.com/

Port of Rotterdam: The port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe, and manages, operates, and develops the port and industrial area, and is responsible for ensuring safe and expedient shipping services. https://www.portofrotterdam.com/en

 

1400 - 1430: Coffee +

1430 – 1530: Session Four – Dark Drones – the solutions +

Moderator: TBA

Gjallarhorn: Using proven technology from the fish farming industry for better
situational awareness and agile response. 

Kongsberg Discovery: The DR 100 is a purpose-built Drone (UAV) detection radar that provides tracking and classification capabilities directly from the radar panel. https://www.kongsberg.com/discovery/surveillance-monitoring/dr/

 

1530 - 1600: Session Seven – The next steps – Ambitions and collaboration +

1630 - 1700: Closing remarks with drinks afterwards +

Program Jan 23rd

Venue: Trondheim Maritime Senter

0830 – 0900: Coffee and mingling -

0900 – 1200: Live demonstrations +

1200 - 1600: Available meeting rooms +

Dark Drones – Operating in the Harshest Conditions

Drones, across all domains – air, sea, and underwater – have transformed the way we conduct operations. They play an increasingly vital role not only in military missions, but also in civilian sectors such as fish farming, offshore energy, environmental monitoring, and search and rescue.

Yet, not all operations occur on clear summer days with calm seas and bright skies. Many are carried out in the cold, the dark, and under unforgiving conditions where technology is pushed to its limits. How do we ensure reliable performance when visibility drops, temperatures plummet, and the environment becomes the most significant challenge?

Dark Drones explores the operational, technological, and human factors in using drones in the harshest environments. The event brings together experts and practitioners to share insights, experiences, and solutions for making drone operations safe, effective, and resilient – even in the most demanding conditions.

Dark Drones – Detecting and Countering the Unwanted

While drones enable new opportunities in industry, research, and defense, they can also pose significant risks when used with malicious intent. Small, fast, and often difficult to detect, these systems can threaten critical infrastructure, compromise security, and disrupt operations.

The challenge is how to effectively identify and counter drones designed to avoid detection or operate without authorization. Reliable situational awareness and robust countermeasures are essential to maintaining safety and security in both civilian and military domains.

This part of Dark Drones addresses the growing need for advanced detection technologies, effective deterrence strategies, and coordinated responses. The aim is to explore solutions that ensure resilience against unwanted drone activity – securing the benefits of drone technology, while protecting against its misuse.

Register your interest