FBI Launches National Training Center to Combat Rising Drone Threats
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The FBI is intensifying its efforts to counter the growing threat posed by drones exploited by criminal networks, terrorist groups, and foreign adversaries. On December 27, FBI Director Kash Patel announced the establishment of a National Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Training Center at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, a strategic move aimed at equipping law enforcement with the skills and technology necessary to detect and mitigate unlawful drone activity.
Patel emphasized that unmanned aircraft systems have become an increasingly prevalent tool for illicit activities, necessitating a robust and modernized response. “Unmanned aircrafts are increasingly exploited by criminals, terrorists, and hostile foreign actors — making the counter UAS program a critical area for the FBI to modernize and adapt to stay ahead of the threat,” Patel stated on his official social media platform.
The initiative follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in June 2025 that authorized the creation of the training center. The facility is designed to prepare law enforcement agencies across the country to safely detect, identify, track, and, when legally authorized, neutralize unauthorized drone incursions. This effort aligns with provisions in the recently enacted National Defense Authorization Act, which provides updated guidelines for counter-UAS operations.
Located at the Redstone Arsenal, a hub for military technology and innovation, the training center is expected to play a pivotal role in securing upcoming high-profile events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. These events, which will draw millions of visitors and extensive media coverage, present significant security challenges that the FBI aims to address proactively.
Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino echoed Patel’s warnings, stressing that the drone threat is not a distant concern but an immediate one. “The drone threat isn’t in the future, it’s in the now,” Bongino wrote, underscoring the urgency of adapting to what he called a “new threat ecosystem.”
Complementing the FBI’s efforts, the Federal Communications Commission recently announced a ban on new foreign-made drones, particularly those manufactured in China, citing national security risks. This regulatory move aims to limit the availability of potentially vulnerable or compromised drone technology within the United States.
Patel’s announcement also comes amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to streamline regulations surrounding commercial drones to enhance U.S. competitiveness in the global drone market, which is increasingly dominated by foreign manufacturers. The administration’s focus on both securing the skies and fostering innovation reflects a dual approach to national security and economic growth.
The FBI’s new training center will serve as a national hub for counter-drone expertise, providing law enforcement personnel with advanced instruction and operational knowledge. This includes training on emerging technologies and legal frameworks to ensure compliance with federal laws and respect for civil liberties.
As drone technology continues to evolve rapidly, the FBI’s initiative represents a significant step toward mitigating risks posed by unmanned aircraft systems. The agency’s commitment to modernization and interagency collaboration aims to safeguard public safety and national security in an era where aerial threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
For more information on the FBI’s counter-UAS program and related national security efforts, visit the FBI’s official terrorism investigation page and the Department of Homeland Security’s UAV resources.
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