24. June 2026
Building envelopes that provide protection against drone attacks
Today, building envelopes, façades, and roofs serve purposes far beyond simply providing weather protection and aesthetic appeal. They are becoming increasingly important, particularly at airports, train stations, public buildings, corporate headquarters, and critical infrastructure sites, as they take on additional protective functions.
The growing threat of explosions and drone attacks is placing new demands on building envelopes. Façade and roof systems that can provide additional protection for people and building structures are becoming increasingly important, particularly for critical infrastructure, transportation facilities, and security-sensitive buildings. Depending on the threat scenario, glazing, load-bearing structures, and connections must be designed to limit shock waves, shrapnel effects, or localized damage.
Protecting People and Assets
Internationally, such solutions are often referred to as “Security-Rated Building Envelopes.” This term refers to façades and roofs that, in addition to providing transparency, aesthetic appeal, and weather protection, also meet specific security requirements. Depending on the requirements, this may involve resistance to explosions, shrapnel, gunfire, vehicle impact, fire, or the effects of drone attacks.
It’s not just about using durable glass. The glass structure, laminated films, steel frames, anchors, corner details, openings, and connections must all function as an integrated system. Penetrations and interfaces must also be taken into account early on, as they often represent critical areas within the protection concept. Many projects remain confidential for security or client reasons. This makes experience, proven design details, and reliable execution all the more important.
Waagner Biro steel and glass GmbH (WBSG) has many years of experience in the field of safety-critical steel and glass structures. Several steel and glass structures have already been built in the United Kingdom that provide additional protection in the event of explosions.
Waagner Biro steel and glass constructed an explosion-resistant glass roof for the Paddington Elizabeth Line station in London. The project demonstrates how high architectural standards can be combined with specific safety requirements.
Another showcase project is the Battersea Power Station in London. As part of this project, Waagner Biro steel and glass designed and constructed the entire building envelope for the metro station. The project falls under the “Bomb Blast & Security Rated Facades” service area.
Currently, various security concepts for buildings are being developed, particularly in the Gulf states. These range from enhanced protection for private villas to safeguarding critical infrastructure against drone attacks. In other markets as well—such as Poland and the Baltic states—such security concepts are becoming increasingly important.
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