Motorola closed the D-Fend deal a quarter early and gave counter-drone its own SVP
Motorola closed its $1.5 billion D-Fend purchase a quarter ahead of guidance and put D-Fend's chief executive over a standing counter-drone platform, a structure aimed at airports and stadiums rather than the front.
D-Fend's chief executive will run a standing counter-drone platform built on RF takeover, a capability aimed at airports, stadiums and critical infrastructure rather than the front.
Motorola Solutions completed its $1.5 billion acquisition of D-Fend Solutions on Aug. 20, the company said. The deal was announced in early June and had been expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, a timeline Zonebourse noted it beat by a quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Motorola pay for D-Fend, and when did the deal close?
Motorola Solutions completed the acquisition for a purchase price of $1.5 billion and announced the close on Aug. 20, 2026, per its press release. The deal was announced in early June and had been expected to close in the fourth quarter, which Zonebourse noted made it an early close.
What does D-Fend's RF cyber-takeover actually do?
It identifies an unauthorized drone, takes control of its radio link and directs it to land in a designated zone, according to Motorola. It does not jam and does not use kinetic force, so it is designed to leave local communications and authorized drones undisturbed.
Who runs the counter-drone business now?
Co-founder Zohar Halachmi continues as CEO of D-Fend and becomes Motorola's senior vice president, Counter-Drone Solutions, leading the company's counter-drone platform, per Motorola's announcement.
Where is the technology already deployed?
D-Fend's systems are fielded at airports, critical infrastructure, stadiums, military bases and borders in more than 30 countries, according to Motorola.
Why is RF takeover a poor fit for the war in Ukraine?
The method needs a radio link to seize. Ukrainian and Russian forces have moved toward fiber-optic-tethered FPV drones and optically guided munitions that carry no radio link, leaving nothing for the system to capture.
How big is D-Fend's business?
The company expected roughly $185 million in 2026 revenue after three years of more than 50% annual growth, Calcalist reported in June.
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Marcus Schuler
Marcus Schuler edits BattlePolicy, a daily defense-technology brief connecting the companies and capabilities behind modern war to the contest among Europe, the US, Russia, and China.