FBI ramps up counter-drone efforts as Patel warns of growing threats from criminals, terrorists

The Trump administration is ramping up its drone defense with an FBI training program at Alabama's Redstone Arsenal targeting criminal networks.

FBI Director Kash Patel said Dec. 27 the Trump administration is ramping up its efforts to combat the growing threat posed by drones used by criminal networks, terrorist groups and foreign adversaries. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

The FBI director said the new training center prepares law enforcement to safely detect, identify, track and mitigate unlawful drone activity when legally authorized, in compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act passed by Congress this year.

Patel said the facility will play a key role in preparing security operations for major upcoming events in the U.S., including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics.

"This is an investment that will pay huge dividends for America’s national security in the years to come," he added.

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FBI Director Kash Patel said a new National Counter-UAS Training Center will play a key role in preparing security operations for major upcoming events in the U.S. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

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The FCC added UAS and their critical components made in China and other foreign countries to its "covered list" that includes equipment determined to pose an "unacceptable risk" to U.S. national security and the safety of Americans.

Fox News Digital's Landon Mion contributed to this report.

Michael Sinkewicz is a writer for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to michael.sinkewicz@fox.com

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