Cops and FBI race to protect World Cup from drones as Homeland Security boss admits ‘everybody’s a little behind’
Cops and FBI race to protect World Cup from drones as Homeland Security boss admits ‘everybody’s a little behind’
Cops and FBI race to protect - With the World Cup set to begin next week, law enforcement agencies across the United States are urgently deploying counter-drone technologies to safeguard the event. The global tournament, featuring 11 venues in America, is anticipated to attract up to 7 million visitors, making it a prime target for security threats. Despite the high stakes, preparations for drone defense have been hampered by a partial government shutdown earlier this year and ongoing supply chain challenges, according to officials.
The Drone Threat Landscape
Drones, which have become a staple in both civilian and military operations, are now a central concern for security planners. Their versatility and accessibility have raised alarms, as they can be used for surveillance, smuggling, or even attacks. Andrew Giuliani, executive director of President Trump’s World Cup task force, highlighted the magnitude of the task during a recent interview with The Associated Press. He described securing the event as akin to managing “78 Super Bowls over 39 days,” underscoring the complexity and intensity of the challenge.
“Protecting the tournament is like 78 Super Bowls over 39 days,” said Andrew Giuliani, executive director of President Trump’s World Cup task force.
Commissioner Jessica Tisch of the New York City Police Department echoed similar concerns in May, stating that drones are the primary threat keeping her awake at night. Her remarks came as the department announced a significant investment in advanced drone systems to bolster security ahead of the games. “If there is one threat that keeps me up at night, it is from drones,” Tisch emphasized, reflecting the growing priority of countering aerial risks.
The challenge is compounded by the fact that drones are increasingly popular among both hobbyists and military forces in conflicts such as those in Iran and Ukraine. This dual use of drones has prompted security officials to adopt a multi-layered approach, combining detection, interception, and rapid response capabilities. However, the timeline for these efforts has been stretched due to the government shutdown, which slowed federal coordination and delayed the procurement of critical equipment.
Coordinated Efforts Across Agencies
Homeland Security’s Markwayne Mullin recently testified before the House Homeland Security Committee, acknowledging that agencies are still catching up with counter-drone strategies. “On the counter-drone measures, everybody’s a little behind,” he admitted, while expressing optimism about the progress made. “Drones are my biggest concern. … Every single day, we improve,” Mullin added, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the threat.
Despite the delays, counter-drone systems have been installed at all 11 U.S. World Cup venues. This includes the deployment of remote-controlled interceptors and sensors designed to identify and neutralize potential threats. The Secret Service has also invested heavily in similar technologies, spending over $100 million in the past year and a half to enhance its capabilities. According to sources, the agency has equipped itself with tools that can detect and track drones in real time, ensuring swift action if needed.
FEMA’s involvement has further amplified the federal response, directing $250 million in grants to local jurisdictions responsible for protecting the event. These funds have enabled police departments and state agencies to acquire sophisticated counter-drone systems, which are now integral to their security protocols. For instance, the King County Sheriff’s Office in Washington, which will oversee security at Seattle’s Lumen Field, has allocated around $12 million for drone-related technology. This includes the use of patrol drones to monitor crowds and venue activity during the tournament.
“We have to think about, ‘What is the worst case scenario?’” said Undersheriff Jeff Flohrt of King County, as reported by KOMO News in April.
Other regions, such as Kansas City, are implementing tailored strategies to address the drone threat. The city, which hosts both a World Cup stadium and team bases for England and Argentina, plans to monitor unauthorized drone traffic, disable UAVs remotely, and deploy “hunter-catcher” drones equipped with nets to capture any threatening unmanned aircraft. These measures aim to preemptively neutralize potential risks, from reckless hobbyists to organized attackers.
Training has also been a key focus, with agencies spending hours to equip officers and drone operators with the skills needed to respond to World Cup threats. This includes scenarios ranging from amateur pilots accidentally entering restricted airspace to coordinated terrorist actions. The FBI has taken the lead in this area, certifying over 60 law enforcement agencies through a federal training program. This initiative, which marks a first-of-its-kind effort, includes departments like the LAPD, NYPD, and state police from Louisiana and Maryland.
“Those agencies will work alongside federal agents who plan to deploy radar, listening devices and other tools to remotely take control of hostile drones,” stated a source, highlighting the collaborative approach.
Companies like DroneShield are playing a crucial role in this effort, providing expertise and technology to enhance detection and response capabilities. Tom Adams, a representative of DroneShield, noted the unpredictable nature of drone threats. “In these types of operations you don’t know what the intent of the drone is, nefarious or someone trying to make a political statement, it’s a very dynamic and challenging part of the security apparatus,” Adams explained to The Sunday Times in May.
The integration of advanced technologies, such as Axon’s drone detection sensors combined with Skydio X10 drones, further illustrates the innovative measures being taken. These systems allow for real-time monitoring and rapid deployment to neutralize threats. As the World Cup approaches, the combined efforts of federal and local agencies, along with private sector partnerships, are shaping a comprehensive defense strategy against the growing drone menace.