Security Startup Cuts Emergency Response Time from 30 Minutes to 3 Minutes Using Remote Drones
Heerlen, Tuesday, 3 February 2026.
LUGN Security from Heerlen has revolutionized security operations in Limburg by deploying remotely controlled surveillance drones that respond to incidents in just 3 minutes compared to traditional 30-minute response times. The startup operates from a 24/7 control center, serving large industrial sites and working with partners including Dutch Railways and Defense, while positioning the region as an international drone security hub.
Transforming Security Operations Through Automation
LUGN Security B.V., founded by Alex Hermans and Dirk Bekke in Heerlen, has developed an innovative drone-as-a-service model that fundamentally changes how security operations function [1]. Rather than deploying traditional security guards with patrol vehicles, the company operates remotely controlled surveillance drones from the LUGN Control Center located on the Brightlands Smart Services Campus in Heerlen [2]. These drones are strategically positioned at docking stations near company premises and can respond automatically to incidents, dramatically reducing response times from the industry standard of 30 minutes to approximately 3 minutes [1]. The system operates 24/7, 365 days per year, providing continuous surveillance coverage across Northwest Europe [2].
Strategic Partnerships Drive Market Validation
The startup’s business model gained significant traction following strategic developments in 2024 and 2025. LIOF became a shareholder in LUGN Security in early 2024 through the Seed Fonds Limburg, also serving as a network partner [1]. By October 2025, LUGN Security had partnered with Intergarde from Maastricht to enhance security operations in Limburg using drone technology [1]. Ryan Harenczyk, investment manager at LIOF, noted that since LIOF became a shareholder in early 2024, LUGN has successfully validated its business model with both existing and new clients through pilot programs, demonstrating that the service is both more efficient and cost-effective than traditional security measures on large sites [1].
Advanced Technology Integration and Operational Excellence
The company’s operational approach centers on integrating drone surveillance with existing security infrastructure rather than replacing human personnel entirely. Alex Hermans explained that initially, the company expected security guards to control the drones directly, but practical experience revealed that providing drone imagery to control room operators proved more logical, leading to the current drone-as-a-service model [1]. Under this system, security companies maintain client relationships while LUGN handles all aspects of drone control, technology management, and regulatory compliance [1]. The drones are equipped with PTZ cameras that can provide live imagery to any connected control room within three minutes of an incident, regardless of national borders [2].
Expanding Market Reach and Future Growth
LUGN Security focuses on private security applications for large-scale facilities including container terminals and event locations, while also collaborating with prominent organizations such as NS (Dutch Railways), industrial partners, and Defense [1]. The company has secured a unique BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) permit, positioning it advantageously for rapid scaling operations [1]. With Intergarde serving as the first connected control room, LUGN aims to expand to additional control rooms and scale operations significantly [1]. The company envisions establishing Limburg, particularly the Heerlen and Maastricht region, as an international drone hub, leveraging its cross-border operational capabilities to serve the broader European market [1][2].