U.S. Rep. Dale Strong is calling for enhanced counter-drone preparedness and interagency coordination as the nation prepares to host several high-profile international events over the next several years.
Strong, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and chairman of its Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, raised the issue during a recent hearing titled “Before the Whistle: Assessing Information Sharing and Security Collaboration Ahead of Major Events.”
The hearing focused on security coordination among federal, state, local and private-sector partners as the United States prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America 250 celebrations and the 2028 Summer Olympics. Lawmakers examined readiness efforts, information sharing and emergency response planning tied to the events, which are expected to draw millions of domestic and international visitors.
“As we prepare to host the FIFA World Cup and other major international events, we face an unprecedented mix of security challenges,” Strong said. “Our ability to protect fans, athletes and host communities will depend on how well we prepare, train, share information and respond under pressure.”
Strong highlighted the growing threat posed by rogue and malicious unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones, particularly around stadiums and fan venues. He stressed the need for coordinated counter-UAS efforts across all levels of government.
The Alabama congressman pointed to specialized counter-drone training conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation at its Counter-UAS Training Center at Redstone Arsenal.
“The threat posed by rogue unmanned aircraft systems to stadiums and fan venues may represent one of the greatest security challenges we face in hosting these large-scale events,” Strong said. “I’m proud to represent Redstone Arsenal, where the FBI has established America’s premier hub for training law enforcement and security professionals to deter and counter drone threats.”
Drawing on more than four decades of experience as a first responder, Strong also emphasized the importance of emergency management planning and coordination among fire, law enforcement and emergency medical agencies in securing large-scale public events.
Lawmakers said continued collaboration and real-time information sharing will be critical to ensuring public safety during what is expected to be an unprecedented stretch of major global events hosted on U.S. soil.
Courtesy of 256 Today
