Overview
- FEMA last month awarded $250 million to 11 World Cup host states to procure counter-drone technology, complementing the new DHS funding.
- The new DHS office will oversee rapid acquisition and deployment of detection and mitigation systems ahead of World Cup matches and the United States’ 250th anniversary events.
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the effort aims to secure the border, protect critical infrastructure, and keep attendees safe at large gatherings.
- Officials cite criminal groups’ adoption of drones for smuggling and surveillance, with experts warning about the risk of potential weaponization.
- Recent cases, including a Baltimore guilty plea for flying a drone over an NFL playoff game and 2024 sightings in New Jersey, have intensified concern at mass venues.