U.S. Representative Dale Strong has introduced the National Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Training Center Act, which would establish a dedicated counter-unmanned aircraft system (UAS) training program.

Such programs would train personnel to operate UAS countermeasure detection and mitigation systems, equipment, or technology that helps mitigate the threat posed by UAS systems to the safety and security of covered facilities and assets.

of Increased use The use of unmanned systems poses security challenges. Drones, due to their size, flight capabilities and ease of operation, are particularly attractive for illicit use by adversaries such as terrorists, drug cartels and criminals.

Rep. Strong (R-Monrovia), who represents a large defense base in north Alabama, said there is an urgent need for specialized training and resources across the board when it comes to the emerging drone threat.

“In recent years, we have seen a surge in UAS threats, both from our southwest border and infiltrations within our interior. During my trips to the border, I have seen adversaries, including terrorists, drug cartels and criminal organizations, utilize UAS to conduct illicit activities, including delivering weaponized payloads, conducting surveillance and attacking our nation's critical infrastructure,” said Rep. Strong.

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“I am proud to represent a community that understands the urgency of the threat posed by illegal unmanned aerial systems and has the capabilities to defend against these attacks. Alabama's 5th District is home to some of the brightest minds in the world, solving complex problems and creating new defense technologies every day.”

“This new threat to our nation demonstrates the need for robust training on UAS detection and counter-UAS operations. We must do more to ensure authorized law enforcement officers and personnel have the resources and tools they need to respond to these threats in real time and ensure the safety of our communities.”

“It is vital that our country remains at the forefront of technology and training to do everything we can to protect ourselves from those who seek to undermine our national security through the misuse of drones.”

China is now the world's number one manufacturer of drones and unmanned aerial technology, with the United States a distant second.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer for Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on X. @ShipleyAusten.