The President of the United States has issued an order aimed at addressing the growing threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. The directive seeks to enhance public safety and maintain American leadership in global innovation while tackling security challenges associated with these technologies.
The order highlights concerns about criminal activities involving UAS, including drug smuggling by cartels, disruptions at mass gatherings, and unauthorized incursions into critical infrastructure such as military bases. It emphasizes the need for immediate action to secure American airspace.
A Federal Task Force to Restore American Airspace Sovereignty has been established to assist in managing national airspace control. Chaired by the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs or a designee, the task force will review existing frameworks and propose solutions to UAS-related threats.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is tasked with several responsibilities under this order. These include submitting a notice of proposed rulemaking for restricting drone flights over fixed site facilities, making national security assessments in coordination with relevant agencies, and ensuring online availability of Notices to Airmen and Temporary Flight Restrictions.
Additionally, the Attorney General is directed to enforce applicable laws when drone operators endanger public safety or violate airspace restrictions. Legislative proposals revising criminal penalties for such violations are also required on a recurring basis.
Executive departments and agencies are encouraged to employ equipment for detecting, tracking, and identifying drones and their signals. The FAA will provide real-time access to personal identifying information associated with UAS remote identification signals within legal boundaries.
Guidance will be published for private critical infrastructure owners or operators on using technologies to detect drone activities. Recommendations on designating certain facilities as covered assets under federal law are expected within 90 days.
Efforts will be made to integrate counter-UAS responses into Joint Terrorism Task Forces for protecting mass gatherings. The creation of a National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems is also planned, focusing initial training on securing major upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 2028 Summer Olympics.
The order clarifies that it does not affect existing authorities or create enforceable rights against the United States or its entities. Implementation will be consistent with applicable laws and subject to available appropriations.
"Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect...the authority granted by law," states Section 10 of the directive signed by Donald J. Trump at The White House on June 6, 2025.
