Italian Army officers from the joint Counter UAS drone-deployment device are deployed in St. Peter’s Square as thousands of people line up to pay their respects to the body of Pope Francis on April 24, 2025, in Vatican City, Vatican. (Marco Di Lauro / Getty Images)
| Published April 29, 2025
The funeral of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025, in Vatican City was marked by an unprecedented security operation, drawing global attention not only for the dignitaries in attendance but also for the advanced and sometimes unusual weapons deployed to ensure safety.
Unconventional Anti-Drone Technology
Among the most striking security measures were the deployment of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS), commonly referred to as “drone killers.” These devices, used by Italian soldiers, are frequency jammers designed to disrupt drone signals. One model, notably large with three barrels, sparked widespread interest on social media. Their presence highlighted the growing concern over drone-related threats at high-profile events.
Officers are already patrolling the area where mourners are waiting in line to see the Pope armed with anti-drone bazookasCredit: EPA
Comprehensive Security Measures
The Vatican’s security was bolstered by a “ring of steel” involving 8,000 personnel, including snipers, bomb experts, and plainclothes officers. NATO surveillance aircraft monitored the skies, and fighter jets were on standby. The elite Swiss Guard played a central role in surveillance and protection, ensuring the safety of approximately 200,000 mourners and 200 high-profile guests.
Global Dignitaries in Attendance
The funeral attracted a significant number of world leaders, including U.S. Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Prince William, and leaders from France, Ukraine, Denmark, and other European monarchies. Their presence underscored the global significance of the event and the heightened security measures in place.
The extensive security measures, including the deployment of advanced anti-drone technology, reflect the evolving nature of threats at high-profile events and the need for innovative solutions to ensure public safety.
Heartbroken pilgrims have been flocking to see Francis’ body which is laid in rest at Saint Peter’s Basilica as part of a solemn three-day ritual.
The deployment of advanced and unconventional security measures, particularly anti-drone technology, at Pope Francis’ funeral raises several key implications:
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Escalating Drone Threats: The use of “drone killers” highlights the growing concern over drones being used for malicious purposes, such as surveillance, attacks, or smuggling. With drones becoming more accessible and harder to detect, security at high-profile events is evolving to address this new threat.
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Increasing Sophistication in Security Protocols: The involvement of NATO surveillance, fighter jets, and counter-drone technology points to a shift in how security is managed at global events. As the world becomes more interconnected and digital, the need for more sophisticated, technological responses to threats is becoming clearer.
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Global Security Concerns: The presence of world leaders at the funeral—like U.S. Presidents Trump and Biden—emphasizes the geopolitical importance of such events. The security measures reflect not just a response to the immediate environment but also a strategic approach to protecting figures of significant political influence.
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Public Perception of Safety: The extensive security, while necessary, could create concerns over personal freedom and privacy. People attending or watching events may feel uneasy with such heavy security measures, especially when they involve surveillance and new technologies like anti-drone systems.
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Future of Event Security: This event sets a precedent for future global gatherings, where security measures will likely continue to include more advanced, tech-driven solutions. As security challenges evolve, so too will the technologies designed to address them, leading to further innovation in military and law enforcement tools.
Italian snipers are on guard duty near to the Vatican City
Overall Takeaway
The nature of threats at high-profile events is changing. The use of advanced technologies, such as anti-drone systems, reflects an increasing need for innovative solutions to protect dignitaries and the public. As drones and other modern tools present new risks, security strategies are becoming more sophisticated, involving both technology and traditional methods. This shift underscores the importance of adapting to emerging threats, ensuring safety, and balancing public security with individual privacy. Ultimately, the event serves as a reminder of the global security challenges we face and the ongoing evolution of protective measures.
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