Welcome to UAV Hive, where I, Ian Hudson, a seasoned commentator on drone technology and investigations, bring clarity to the complex world of UAVs.

I uncover the truth behind drone sightings, software challenges, and industry narratives. Whether you’re a hobbyist, professional, or journalist, my insights—rooted in decades of computing experience and meticulous research—offer a trusted perspective on the evolving drone landscape.

As a leading drone commentator and guest on sUAS News I am recognised globally as the foremost authority on the 2018 Gatwick incident (Operation Trebor), underpinned by several years of dedicated research, I have delivered authoritative insights into misidentification cases.

My analysis of the Gatwick event, spotlighted by Samira Shackle’s Guardian investigation, exposed the disarray among authorities triggered by unverified drone sightings, with my FOIA-driven timelines revealing significant insights.  I was invited as a guest to the 2024 UAV New Zealand conference to give a talk on the Gatwick Drone incident and the years of research using the Freedom of Information Act.

Likewise, in the 2024 Lakenheath drone “near miss” reported by Matt Precey for the BBC, I underscored how an F-15’s beacons were misidentified as a drone. From the outset, I steadfastly argued that the 2019 New Jersey and New York sightings, alongside Gatwick and Lakenheath, were questionable, supported by thorough analysis indicating these were likely misinterpretations of conventional aircraft or celestial objects. This proven track record highlights my dedication to rigorous examination of reported drone incidents, particularly at night.

References:

• The Gatwick Drone Panic – Operation Trebor

• Lakenheath F-15 Misidentification

• UAVNZ Conference Gatwick Talk

I have utilised the Freedom of Information act in the United Kingdom and United States.  I have research tirelessly, pursuing truth, even on individual cases that have spanned years.  I have fought and won appeals at Tribunal cases held by the General Regulatory Chamber in the public interest, to have facts about drone incidents made public.

I have extensive insight into counter-drone systems and sensors, I have developed a detailed understanding of technologies designed to detect, track, and neutralise unauthorised drones.  I am familiar with the principles of individual sensors, software and of potential limitations and dangers within an urban setting.

I have identified weaknesses with airport counter drone systems and processes, utilising public sources.

References:

• Concerns raised at Dublin Airport 2023

The drone industry is full of self appointed experts, yet no one person in an expert of all aspects of drone and counter drone.

I do not describe myself as an expert as it is a meaningless moniker that is now tainted, the press forever roll out drone “experts” that provide flawed, incomplete or wholly inaccurate information.  I will only ever provide information within my realm of knowledge, I will provide evidence, citations and a genuine analysis that I believe to be correct.  Where I do not know something, I will disclose that and suggest a contact that has the knowledge for that area of operation.  The “Drone Socials” button has some credible contacts for specific drone tasks.