The FBI is warning that it’s only a matter of time before the type of drone attacks seen on battlefields overseas reach the United States. FBI Deputy Director Chris Raia emphasized the threat from drones, stating that advances in commercially available drone technology are giving individuals and small groups capabilities once associated with larger organizations.
Drone Technology and National Security
Raia’s warning comes as federal authorities grapple with the rapid proliferation of inexpensive drone technology and lessons learned from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The FBI is also in the midst of securing the FIFA World Cup, one of the largest domestic security operations in recent US history.
Investigators are particularly focused on the next generation of drones, which could operate via 5G and LTE cellular networks rather than relying solely on short-range radio-frequency links. This shift could make it more difficult for investigators to identify operators and disrupt attacks before they occur.
The FBI’s focus on drones has intensified during the FIFA World Cup, with agents seizing over 300 drones and making eight arrests tied to unauthorized drone activity during the tournament. Federal prosecutors have also alleged that members of a conspiracy discussed using explosive-laden drones to trigger a mass evacuation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
