Eyes In The Sky: Optimising A Steelworks’ Security Perimeter

Setting The Scene…

A multinational steel-making company’s sprawling facility presents unique security challenges that traditional methods struggle to address. With manufacturing plants, warehouses, and corporate offices spread across a vast industrial site, Corps Security identified an opportunity to revolutionise protection through cutting-edge drone technology.

In March 2025, Corps Security partnered with Security Drone Group (SDG) to conduct a comprehensive 24-hour trial, evaluating the latest drone systems for enhanced surveillance capabilities at this critical national infrastructure site.

Security Challenges

The steelworks facility faced several security vulnerabilities that proved tricky for conventional approaches:

  • Extensive perimeter areas impossible to cover with static CCTV systems
  • High-value assets including valuable scrap materials in areas without camera coverage
  • Elevated structures requiring regular inspection, including rooftops and jetty loaders
  • Low visibility in critical areas during night shifts
Corps Security - Integrated Guarding Case Study - Centrica with CBRE

Cutting-edge Drone Deployment

Following a detailed site assessment, Corps Security deployed the advanced DJI Dock 3 and M4TD drone system featuring sophisticated AI capabilities.

The implementation included:

  • Integration with existing security infrastructure (CCTV, access control, alarm systems)
  • AI-powered smart tracking technology to identify and follow people, vehicles and boats
  • Specialised day/night operations enhanced by thermal imaging
  • Automated patrol routes with pre-programmed response protocols
  • Weatherproof capabilities with operational capacity in wind speeds up to 26mph
  • Six directional sensors to detect and avoid obstacles
  • Maximum operational radius of 10km, covering the entire facility

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Transformative Results

The drone security system delivered immediate and measurable improvements…

Enhanced coverage: Expanded security coverage of up to 500% compared to traditional security patrols, which dramatically improved response times and monitoring capabilities across the entire site. During the trial, the system identified several test subjects in areas that would have been virtually impossible to monitor with traditional methods, particularly in zones containing valuable scrap materials that had previously been vulnerable to theft.

Rapid response: When triggered, drones deployed to alarm locations within just 45 seconds, providing real-time visual intelligence to security personnel.

Improved safety: Security staff noted significant improvements to personal safety.

Advanced capabilities: Beyond standard security functions, the drone system showcased several other valuable applications.

Roof inspections: Preprogrammed flight paths capture comprehensive roof imagery uploaded directly to cloud storage for assessment.

Stockpile measurements: 3D point cloud technology enables precise volume calculations with 10mm accuracy.

Thermal detection: Night-time thermal imaging identifies unauthorised personnel in sensitive areas.

WHAT OUR CLIENT SAID

‘‘This technique of surveillance improves our visibility and makes patrolling much safer, particularly at night.’’