U.S. Department of War·Nov 9, 2026, 9:35 AM ET

Trump Administration Deepens Interagency Collaboration to Protect the Nation's Skies From Unmanned Threats

Five federal departments (DOT, DoW, DHS, DOE, DOJ) launched an expanded interagency effort to coordinate counter-unmanned aircraft systems operations under a whole-of-government approach.
The White House Task Force to Restore American Airspace Sovereignty led the creation of a memorandum of understanding to evaluate & deploy counter-drone technologies.
The initiative builds on existing collaboration, including a temporary flight restriction along the southern border & a safety assessment of the Department of War's high-energy laser system.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated the effort aims to rapidly field cutting-edge capabilities to secure the southern border & critical military installations.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford emphasized that the agreement ensures counter-drone technologies do not compromise the safety of the National Airspace System.
Secretary of Energy Chris Wright highlighted the coordination to protect energy infrastructure using American innovation & federal expertise.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin noted the action will counter cartel drone threats & secure the airspace above the southern border.
Attorney General Todd Blanche & FBI Director Kash Patel cited recent arrests regarding drone plots & the seizure of over 700 drones during the FIFA World Cup as context for the new coordination.
Agencies will collaborate with the FAA & FCC to develop systems that detect, track, stop, or control unauthorized drones while adhering to technical requirements.
The FAA will conduct rapid safety risk assessments & may restrict airspace if proposed systems present unsafe conditions or require additional risk mitigation.