Colombia Defense National Anti-Drone Shield Project
Colombia has officially launched the National Anti-Drone Shield Project (Escudo Nacional Antidrones), a multi-phase defense program valued at approximately 6.3 trillion Colombian pesos (US$1.68–1.7 billion). Designed to counter the escalating threat of unmanned aerial systems used by armed groups, the initiative is built on three core pillars: legislation and doctrine, training and operations, and technology. Implementation will be led by the Armed Forces, National Police, and a newly established Drone and Anti-Drone Group within the Ministry of Defense.
The project’s first phase is budgeted at 1 trillion pesos (approximately US$260 million), underscoring a strong commitment to deploying nationwide counter-UAS capabilities. This initiative positions Colombia as a dynamic emerging buyer of counter-drone technology, creating significant multi-year opportunities for U.S. defense contractors. The demand spans counter-drone platforms, command-and-control systems, electronic warfare tools, and integrated training solutions.
Procurement Requirements and Contract Protocols
The Ministry of Defense has outlined strict contract protocols to ensure industrial cooperation and long-term sustainment which favors established U.S. firms with strong export-control compliance. Proposals must go beyond off-the-shelf products, satisfying requirements for technology transfer, in-country training, operational testing, and guaranteed software updates.
Authorities have outlined 13 core criteria that will govern the process, including direct contracting, mandatory software update commitments, comprehensive training for operators and maintainers, technology transfer obligations, testing under Colombian operational conditions, strict delivery requirements reflecting global supply chain risks, and full guarantees and compliance insurance among other considerations.
Although the detailed tender documents are still pending, repeated official statements and media reproductions confirm that the process is moving forward.
For more information, reach out to:
Rafael Jimenez
Commercial Specialist
Rafael.Jimenez@trade.gov