– The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the launch of a new office focused on the rapid procurement and deployment of drone and counter-drone technologies, marking a significant step toward strengthening American airspace sovereignty.
While drones are transforming industries across the US, they are also increasingly used by malicious actors. The new DHS Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-UAS will oversee strategic investments in technologies designed to stay ahead of evolving drone threats and tactics.
The office has already begun operations and is expected to finalise a US$115 million investment in counter-drone systems this week. These capabilities will be used to secure major national and international events, including America250 celebrations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting DHS’s role in protecting high-profile gatherings during a historic period.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said drones now represent a new frontier in air superiority and that the initiative reflects a renewed focus on defending US borders, infrastructure and public safety. She added that the new office will help protect Americans at large public events while strengthening efforts to counter criminal and cartel activity.
The White House has prioritised protection against drone threats since 2018, when DHS was granted authority to detect and mitigate hostile drones. Since then, DHS has conducted more than 1,500 missions addressing illicit drone activity. The new Program Executive Office will build on this foundation, accelerating innovation while also expanding the use of drones for defensive and public safety missions.
With White House support, DHS is significantly increasing investment in airspace security. Key initiatives include a proposed US$1.5 billion counter-drone contract vehicle to speed technology acquisition across DHS agencies, expanded counter-UAS authorities for federal and state partners, and US$250 million in FEMA grants awarded to states hosting the 2026 World Cup.
Source: Department of Homeland Security