This paper provides the threat and risk analysis foundation for security risk management in drone affected environments. It supports the central questions for security professionals: what types of drones are actually in play in a given context, how are they being used, and how does that affect NGO operations?

It is intended as both a reference and analysis tool. When conducting a security risk assessment, this document supports the identification and analysis of drone-related threats and risks: the systems present, the actors operating them, the tactics being employed, and the logic that shapes how NGOs may become exposed, whether or not they are deliberately targeted. Mitigation measures and operational guidance are addressed separately.

The document focuses on the spectrum of systems most relevant to humanitarian operating environments: from Shahed-type one-way attack drones down to dual-use commercial technology and first-person-view drones. It does not address the high-end capabilities of top-tier state militaries.

This document is reviewed and updated frequently to reflect the current threat landscape.

This is one part of a three-part series on drones and their impact on NGO operations.