Rising Threat of Malicious Drones
Public safety is a core duty of government, but a new concern is emerging. Malicious drones are becoming an increasing threat to safety and well-being. The governor is urging Congress to recognize the necessary resources and authority required to protect our citizens and infrastructure.
The dangers of drones have been evident in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting their deadly potential. We’ve also seen military drones intruding into NATO airspace, which is quite alarming.
However, it’s not just a problem abroad. Here in the United States, rogue drone operators are threatening public safety and crucial infrastructure. There have been numerous incidents involving energy facilities, public gatherings, prisons, and military installations, all of which represent real risks to safety.
On one hand, drones are incredibly useful. They help in commercial activities and support areas like public safety, law enforcement, disaster management, and environmental monitoring, particularly in hard-to-reach or dangerous places. But, unfortunately, that same capability can easily be misused.
Recent news shows the growing threat. Law enforcement has uncovered cases of attempted drone attacks on power stations in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. There are illegal drones flying over chemical plants and pipelines in Louisiana, and dangerously approaching major airports. Some even collided with firefighting aircraft in California, which posed a risk during hurricane rescue and recovery operations in North Carolina. In one instance, a suspicious drone was spotted near a college football game, prompting safety concerns and even evacuations. Similarly, Georgia has faced the issue of drones smuggling contraband into prisons, with authorities recently seizing over 87 drones and 22 weapons meant for inmates.
Whether these drone incidents arise from negligence, criminal activity, or terrorism, local and state officials are the first line of defense. Almost 800,000 drones are registered in the US, and many remain unregistered, which is complicating our ability to manage the risk effectively.
Meanwhile, efforts to counter drone threats are struggling to keep pace with advancements in drone technology. Notably, only federal agencies like the FAA, the Department of Defense, and the Homeland Security Department have clear authority to neutralize drones through hacking or jamming.
During a recent House Judiciary Committee hearing, experts discussed how this gap in homeland security is affecting communities. One Florida Highway Patrol sergeant pointed out that public safety specialists are facing increasing challenges, highlighting a significant vulnerability in our national preparedness.
Michael Touffy from the FBI emphasized the limitations they’re under, revealing that the agency can offer counter-drone protection for only 0.05% of the over 240,000 special events requiring such protection. Upcoming major events like the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics will expose the federal government’s struggles to address the threat posed by hostile drones, especially at large gatherings.
While recent executive orders are a positive step—such as the Governor’s support for Executive Order 14307 on improving American drone control—they need to be bolstered by financial backing and authority. The establishment of a task force to examine threat solutions for UAS and regulatory frameworks is underway, but action needs to be more comprehensive.
Investing in drone detection systems will be essential to keep drones away from sensitive areas and events, but enforcement is largely reactive, leaving us vulnerable. It’s crucial that Congress act to strengthen our ability to manage these threats through better coordination between federal and state authorities.
This is a pressing issue. Waiting for a serious incident before taking action on drone regulation is not an option.
Governors Jeff Landry of Louisiana and Josh Stein of North Carolina are involved with the National Association of Governors’ Public Health and Emergency Management Task Force, advocating for necessary legislative changes.
