SOUTHEND airport says it is leading the way in security after introducing new technology to stop drones entering its airspace.

Southend Airport rolled out its brand new security system which will be used to spot rogue drones.

Drones can be a hazard to aircraft as they can affect the electronics on the aircraft and drones can also carry a range of explosives and other life threatening items.

There is also the potential for drones and planes to be involved in mid-air collisions.

Damon Knight, head of Southend Airport air traffic services, said: “I saw the potential in this system when I was shown it at the beginning of the year and it really is about drone surveillance, where a lot of other systems are about drone denial.

“We need to make sure people are adhering to law. Whether they are misusing drones or for more commercial purposes, we have to consider the safety of people on the ground but also those that are in the air.”

The trial system was developed by Integrated Paramount Services and Metis Aerospace who will place three beacons in the airfield which will be used to track any drones that are seen in the area.