Congress urged to expand drone mitigation authorities amid rising security threats

In a pivotal meeting held by the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security, experts voiced urgent concerns about the evolving landscape of drone warfare and its implications for national security. As drones transition from specialized tools to mainstream components of modern combat, their potential misuse poses significant threats to American safety.

The meeting highlighted alarming statistics: over one million drones are currently registered in the U.S., with projections suggesting this number could rise to 2.7 million by 2027. These drones, often inexpensive and easily accessible, have been weaponized abroad, raising fears that similar tactics could be employed domestically. Experts noted that the proliferation of drone warfare tactics, particularly those demonstrated in Ukraine, showcases the capability of adversaries to strike from great distances using commercially available technology.

Witnesses emphasized that while drones have beneficial applications in public safety and various industries, their potential for misuse is a growing concern. Incidents of drones tailing law enforcement, dropping contraband into prisons, and hovering over sensitive infrastructure have been reported, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced legal frameworks to address these threats.

Despite the clear risks, legislative action has lagged. Experts called for immediate bipartisan efforts to expand authorities for local law enforcement and security professionals, develop counter-drone training programs, and secure funding for critical infrastructure protection. The current legal landscape, characterized by limited and short-term authorities, leaves communities vulnerable and hampers effective responses to drone-related incidents.

The meeting concluded with a stark warning: without decisive action, the U.S. remains at risk of a significant drone attack, a scenario that experts believe is not a matter of "if," but "when." As drone technology continues to advance, the call for proactive measures has never been more critical, urging Congress to act swiftly to safeguard American skies and public safety.