The Trump administration is taking measures to enhance U.S. airspace to address potential drone threats ahead of next summer’s World Cup and other major events, stating that this technology is crucial for strengthening security and surpassing foreign competitors in aviation technology.

  Andrew Giuliani, director of the White House’s 2026 FIFA World Cup task force, said the administration plans to launch a $500 million program to support state and local governments in developing counter-drone security strategies for the soccer championship held in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, as well as for the U.S. Semiquincentennial and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

  The White House stated that this funding will be allocated to all 50 states but will be specifically used to secure the 104 soccer matches held in U.S. stadiums. Officials envision city police departments using handheld tools to detect aircraft, then disabling them through jamming technology or commanding them to return to their point of origin.

  "From governors to police chiefs in various cities, to the chief security officers of stadiums, everyone has said that to protect the World Cup venues, they need this capability," Giuliani said in an interview with POLITICO.

  The project is funded by the budget from the "One Beautiful Bill Act" passed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in July, reflecting growing concerns in the White House and national security agencies about drone threats, particularly during major events. These threats could come from organized terrorists, criminals, or overzealous amateurs unaware of closed airspace.
"Drones are a disruptive technology. They have incredible potential, both for good and for ill," said Seb Gorka, senior counterterrorism director at the National Security Council. "We will enhance the enforcement of existing laws to deter two types of people: malicious actors and fools—those who are both ignorant and careless."

  In August, Gorka and Giuliani met with representatives from local organizing committees of the 11 U.S. cities hosting World Cup matches. Giuliani stated that drones have become a "critical component" of the White House task force's planning. The chief security officer of FIFA, soccer's international governing body, considers drones the biggest security challenge for the 39-day event.

  "Let’s treat the World Cup as a priority," said Giuliani, whose task force, coordinated by the National Security Council, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Justice, meets daily to coordinate federal and local security efforts. "The World Cup kicks off in nine months—there’s no time to waste. So, let’s get the necessary equipment in place to ensure safety as much as possible."

  World Cup host cities currently have access to a $625 million grant program created by the "One Beautiful Bill Act" and managed by the Department of Homeland Security to reimburse security-related preparation costs. States and territories will soon receive guidance on how to apply for drone security funding. Giuliani said, "Whether they are hosting World Cup matches or Semiquincentennial events, every state will have a minimum amount of funding available."

  "We will propose our best practices and urge our co-hosting countries to propose theirs," he said. "Let’s see which best practices are ultimately suitable for the three countries to advance together."

  However, loopholes in U.S. law remain a key obstacle. Under current federal regulations, only the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security have the authority to shoot down or intercept drones in unauthorized locations or areas deemed threatening.

  Last month, FIFA’s Chief Security and Safety Officer, G.B. Jones, testified at a House Homeland Security Committee hearing, stating, "The Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the FAA, and the state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies collaborating during the FIFA World Cup matches must be equipped with the necessary resources and legal framework to mitigate drone threats at all venues where airspace security risks are identified. This includes matches, FIFA fan zones, and other large outdoor gatherings where drone threats could compromise safety."

  These concerns have prompted state capitals and Congress to race to clarify the boundaries of responsibility among government agencies. In September, more than 30 governors urged Congress to pass legislation granting states the same drone mitigation authority as federal agencies.

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Post time:Sep-25-2020