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30 Jan 25. Chepstow Military Raceday returns on November 5th 2024 with extended C-UAS Conference.
Protecting Critical Sporting Infrastructure and Events
Chepstow Racecourse 4-5 November 2025
Dive into the future of drone technology and security at the UK’s premier Counter-Unmanned Air Vehicle (C-UAV) and Counter-Unmanned Air System (C-UAS) Exhibition & Conference. This groundbreaking event brings together key stakeholders to tackle the evolving threats posed by unmanned aerial systems to critical sporting infrastructure, with a particular focus on horse racing.
Why Attend?
Organised by BATTLESPACE Publications and Marksman Communication, the second iteration of Protecting Critical Sporting Infrastructure and Events promises two days of insights, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology demonstrations. With an expanded format and agenda, this event addresses pressing concerns about drone incursions in the sports sector, including illegal streaming, unauthorised filming, and safeguarding compliance under Martyn’s Law.
What to Expect:
- Exclusive Insights: Engage with government policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators shaping the future of aerial security.
- Live Demonstrations: Witness the latest advancements in C-UAV/C-UAS technology, with real-world demonstrations tailored to sporting venues.
- Networking Opportunities: Forge partnerships with like-minded professionals dedicated to securing critical infrastructure.
- Practical Applications: Explore how Martyn’s Law impacts the events sector and what venues must do to comply with these vital regulations.
Julian Nettlefold, Publisher of BATTLESPACE, highlights the urgency: “Drone threats to sporting events, particularly racing, have grown exponentially over the past five years. Racing’s vulnerability to illegal gambling syndicates underscores the critical need for robust drone defences. This event builds on the success of last year’s conference by expanding to include product demonstrations and exciting attractions such as drone racing.”
Craig Taylor, Director of Marksman Communication, emphasised the importance of legal compliance: “Events organisers and venue owners must understand their obligations under Martyn’s Law to ensure both safety and regulatory compliance. This conference is a vital platform for sharing knowledge and equipping the industry to tackle the challenges posed by drone incursions.”
Luke Adams, Manager of Chepstow Racecourse, added, “We are delighted to host this initiative alongside BATTLESPACE. Ensuring our venue remains safe from drone incursions is at the forefront of our priorities as we implement Martyn’s Law.”
Ian Cameron-Mowat, Conference Chairman, also remarked, “This year’s agenda is designed to inform, inspire, and drive action in securing the UK’s sporting events.”
Agenda
Day One – 4 November 2025
Exploring Regulatory, Technological, and Insurance Challenges
10:00 – Registration and Breakfast
10:30 – Chairman’s Welcome and Introduction
10:50 – Outline of Martyn’s Law – UK Home Office TBC
11:10 – UAV Challenges Facing Sporting Venues – Arena Leisure
11:30 – Coffee Break and Product Demonstrations
12:10 – Insurance Challenges to Comply with Martyn’s Law
12:30 – Protecting Important Visitors from Drone Incursions
12:50 – Lunch Break and Drone Racing TBC
14:30 – The Challenges of Illegal Streaming
14:50 – Crowd Protection at Sporting Venues
15:10 – Animal and Team Protection at Sporting Venues
15:30 – The Requirement for Portable C-UAS Systems
15:50 – Tea Break
16:30 – Q&A Panel Discussion
18:30 – Drinks Reception
19:30 – BBOY Award Presentation
20:00 – Gala Dinner
22:00 – Charity Auction
Day Two – 5 November 2025
Harnessing Dual-Use Military Technology for Sporting Events
Costs
Day 1: Tuesday 4th Nov:
Conference £300pp+ vat = £360.00pp inc vat
BOOK – 220 available
Day 1: Tuesday 4th Nov:
Gala Dinner including drink on arrival: £75.00pp+vat = £90.00pp inc vat
BOOK – 220 available
Day 2: Wednesday 5th Nov:
Racing Event Silver Ticket:
£120pp +vat
£1200 + VAT per table of 10
Day 2: Wednesday 5th Nov:
Racing Event Gold Sponsor Ticket
Table of 10 only £2,500.00 +vat = £3,000.00 inc vat
Coldra Court Hotel | 4-Star Hotel Breaks In The UK: £110.00 inc vat: B&B
Harnessing Dual-Use Military Technology for Sporting Events
The Growing Threat of Drone Incursions
Drone incursions pose a rapidly escalating risk to the safety and security of critical sporting events. In the horse racing sector, unauthorised drones are increasingly being used for illegal streaming, providing real-time footage to gambling syndicates and bypassing official broadcast rights. Beyond financial losses, these activities compromise venue security, distract participants, and jeopardise the welfare of animals and attendees. Recent advancements in drone technology, including increased flight range, payload capacity, and autonomous navigation, have made detection and mitigation more challenging. Furthermore, with drones capable of carrying dangerous payloads, the potential for malicious attacks looms large. This highlights the urgent need for sporting venues to adopt robust counter-drone systems and ensure compliance with Martyn’s Law to protect visitors, participants, and infrastructure.
Join Us in Protecting the Future of UK Sports
Don’t miss this vital opportunity to engage with the experts driving innovation and security in the face of increasing drone threats. Whether you’re a policymaker, event organiser, or technology developer, this event is your chance to stay ahead of the curve. Secure your place now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of sporting event safety.
Ticket bookings:
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currently serving (both regulars and reserves), veterans from the Second World War and those who have served in more recent conflicts, as well as their families. SSAFA understands that behind every uniform is a person. And we are here for that person – any time they need us, in any way they need us, for as long as they need us.
https://www.ssafa.org.uk/about-us
https://www.ssafa.org.uk/support-us
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