President Trump Initiates Major Policy Revision?
In the ever-evolving landscape of national security, the United States is taking significant steps to bolster its defenses against potential drone attacks. This multi-layered approach involves legal, technological, and operational measures, with the participation of various government agencies and the National Guard.
Recent events have highlighted the importance of this initiative. In June of this year, Ukraine launched a surprise drone attack targeting multiple Russian airbases, causing damage to many bombers in Russia's fleet. Similarly, less than two weeks later, Israel activated drones smuggled into Iran in parts over a long period by its Mossad intelligence agency. These incidents underscore the need for robust counter-drone measures.
The U.S. government has responded with a series of proactive measures. In March 2025, the U.S. government conducted wargames to explore defending military bases from drone attacks, emphasising the critical role of the National Guard's Civil Support Teams. These teams are rapidly deployable and well-funded to support counter-drone operations.
Navigating complex legal rules of engagement is another crucial aspect of this effort. Defending military installations involves navigating rules under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, allowing some commanders to use force against drone incursions, but with inconsistent policies across roughly 500 bases. To address these issues, a Federal Task Force was created following a 2025 executive order to review and update rules, close legal gaps, and recommend new counter-drone tactics focused on threats to people, events, and critical infrastructure.
The Department of Defense is also investing in advanced counter-drone systems such as the Vehicle Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment (VAMPIRE), with recent contracts expanding deployment of mobile counter-UAS technologies. Furthermore, Pentagon policy changes aim to expedite arming soldiers with small attack drones and reduce bureaucratic hurdles that have limited drone use in defense, enhancing the ability to quickly proliferate and innovate drone technology for security.
Congressional committees are actively examining the drone threat, emphasising the asymmetric danger drones pose to lives and critical infrastructure. They are pushing for proactive steps as the drone threat landscape evolves, including protecting the homeland against adversarial states and terrorist groups.
Hugh Hewitt, a prominent figure in American journalism, has been closely following these developments. Hewitt, who has written for every major American paper and authored a dozen books, frequently appears on major national news television networks and hosts television shows for PBS and MSNBC. His radio show and column focus on the Constitution, national security, American politics, and the Cleveland Browns and Guardians.
In the midst of these geopolitical tensions, it is essential to remember that the United States remains committed to safeguarding its security and the safety of its citizens. The comprehensive, evolving effort to deter, detect, and defeat hostile drone activities across the United States is a testament to this commitment.
References: 1. Wargames and operational readiness 2. Legal and policy frameworks 3. Technological enhancements and contracts 4. Policy reform for rapid drone deployment
- The recent drone attacks on Russian airbases by Ukraine and the infiltration of drones into Iran serve as powerful reminders of the critical role technology plays in politics, particularly in war-and-conflicts, highlighting the need for a General News focus on the importance of counter-drone measures.
- In the United States, the effort to safeguard national security against potential drone attacks involves not only technological advancements but also legal and policy frameworks, as evidenced by the creation of a Federal Task Force to review and update rules under Title 10 of the U.S. Code.
- Hugh Hewitt, a renowned figure in American journalism, regularly delves into discussions about the evolving landscape of politics, including national security, technology, and the Constitution, offering his opinion on current events and policies, such as the United States' comprehensive approach to deter, detect, and defeat hostile drone activities.
