The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has opened a new office dedicated to procuring and deploying drone and counter-drone technologies, with the $115m investment to secure the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches now in the final stages.
The new DHS Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems will oversee strategic investments in drone and counter-drone technologies that can outpace evolving threats and tactics.
The Office has already started its work, and recently finalised the $115 million investment in counter-drone technologies that will be critical in securing America250 and 2026 FIFA World Cup venues.
“With the creation of the DHS Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems, President Trump continues his historic legacy in developing American dominance,” noted Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
“This will help us continue to secure the border and cripple the cartels, protect our infrastructure, and keep Americans safe as they attend festivities and events during a historic year of America’s 250th birthday and FIFA 2026,” she added.
President Trump initially signed the law in 2018 that gave DHS components the authority to detect and mitigate drones. Since then, the Department has conducted over 1,500 missions to protect the US from illicit drone activities.
Other key DHS initiatives implemented to secure American airspace include:
- Industry Engagement: DHS recently requested proposals from the counter-drone industry for a new $1.5 billion contract vehicle, enabling components such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to strategically acquire advanced technologies to protect their officers and US citizens.
- Expanded Authorities: In December 2025, DHS authorities were broadened, authorising all department components, state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement partners, and correctional agencies to fully combat drone threats.
- Rapid Grant Deployment: In December 2025 FEMA completed the fastest non-disaster grant award in the history of the Department, awarding $250m in grants for counter-drone capabilities to the 11 states hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and the National Capital Region.
The Program Executive Office can be reached at [email protected].
