FBI Director Kash Patel announced the bureau is significantly expanding counter-drone operations through a new National Counter-UAS Training Center at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama.
The center, established following a June 2025 executive order from President Trump, trains federal, state, and local law enforcement to detect, track, identify, and mitigate unlawful drone activity. Patel emphasized that unmanned aircraft systems pose growing risks from criminals, terrorists, and foreign adversaries exploiting them for surveillance, smuggling, or attacks.
This expansion addresses escalating incidents, including cartel drone operations along borders and unauthorized flights near sensitive sites. The FBI has invested heavily in modernizing capabilities, prioritizing counter-UAS as a key national security focus. Training complies with recent National Defense Authorization Act provisions and prepares agencies for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Deputy Director Dan Bongino reinforced the urgency, stating the drone threat exists now and requires immediate adaptation. The program includes deputizing qualified state and local officers through FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces, granting them temporary federal authority for mitigation.
Complementing this, the FCC recently banned new foreign-made drones, citing unacceptable risks from Chinese manufacturers like DJI. This move supports domestic production and reduces vulnerabilities in law enforcement tools.
The training center serves as the nation’s premier hub for counter-UAS expertise, standardizing techniques across agencies. It collaborates with the Department of Defense’s Joint Interagency Task Force 401 and Homeland Security efforts.
Patel noted drones enable contraband delivery to prisons, border surveillance evasion, and potential disruptions at mass gatherings. Without enhanced capabilities, high-risk events remain vulnerable.
This initiative builds on prior FBI involvement in drone incident responses and aligns with broader administration priorities to secure U.S. airspace. The center’s launch marks a proactive step to stay ahead of evolving threats.
As drone technology advances rapidly, the FBI’s expanded operations ensure coordinated, effective responses protecting public safety and critical infrastructure.
