U.S. Rep. Dale Strong introduced the “National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act” to establish a dedicated counter-UAS training program. Unmanned Aircraft Systems are also known categorically as drones.

Such a program would train personnel to operate counter-UAS detection and mitigation systems, equipment, or technology that helps to lessen the credible threat posed by UAS systems to the safety or security of a covered facility or asset.

The increasing use of unmanned systems poses security challenges. Due to their size, flying capabilities, and the ease with which they can be operated, drones are particularly appealing for illicit uses by hostile actors, including terrorists, drug cartels, and criminals.

Rep. Strong (R-Monrovia), who represents a large defense base in North Alabama, says there is a pressing need for specialized training and resources across the emerging field of unmanned threats.

“In recent years, we have witnessed a surge in threats posed by UAS, both from incursions across our Southwest border and within the interior of the United States. I have seen firsthand during trips to the border – hostile actors such as terrorists, cartels, and criminal organizations exploiting UAS to carry out illegal activities, including the transportation of weaponized payloads, surveillance, and attacks on domestic critical infrastructure,” said Rep. Strong.

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“I am proud to represent a community that both understands the urgency of the threat posed by unlawful unmanned aircraft systems and possesses the capability to defend against these attacks. The Fifth District of Alabama is home to some of the brightest minds in the world, solving complex issues and forging new defense technologies every day.”

“This emerging threat to our homeland presents a need for robust training on UAS detection and counter-UAS operations. More must be done to ensure that our authorized law enforcement officers and personnel are equipped with the resources and tools needed to respond to these threats in real time and guarantee the safety of our communities.”

“It is vital that our nation remain at the forefront of technology and training and use every tool at our disposal to protect against those who seek to undermine our national security through the nefarious use of drones.”

China is currently the world’s number one manufacturer of drones and unmanned aircraft technology. The United States ranks a distant second.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten.