US Federal Agencies Agree on Faster Counter-Drone Safety Reviews
Five US federal departments announced an agreement on November 9 creating a common safety review process for counter-drone systems before deployment. Reviews of some previously evaluated systems could take as little as 24 hours.
The US Departments of Transportation, War, Homeland Security, Energy and Justice announced a new interagency agreement on November 9 aimed at speeding up the evaluation and deployment of counter-drone technology while keeping civilian aviation safe. The White House Task Force to Restore American Airspace Sovereignty led the effort. Counter-drone systems are equipment designed to detect and neutralize unmanned aircraft.
A common process
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the memorandum of understanding means participating agencies will coordinate with the FAA and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as they develop and test such systems. They will share technical requirements, testing information and operational data. The FAA will assess risks to other aircraft and recommend safeguards or airspace restrictions where needed.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the safety of the National Airspace System is the agency's top priority and that the agreement sets a consistent process so counter-drone technologies can be used without compromising aviation safety.
Reuters reported that FAA official Liam McKenna said the agency has approved more than 1,000 counter-drone coordination requests involving the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security. Reviews of some previously evaluated systems could take as little as 24 hours.
Earlier incidents
The agreement follows several federal efforts to strengthen counter-drone capabilities along the southern US border. In April, the FAA and the Pentagon agreed on rules for high-energy laser counter-drone technology. In February, the FAA temporarily halted flights at El Paso International Airport after a laser counter-drone system was used without a completed FAA safety review. A later incident involving a military laser system and a Customs and Border Protection drone led to expanded flight restrictions near Fort Hancock, Texas.
What it means
The agreement provides no new funding, does not expand existing legal authorities and does not remove aviation safety requirements. For manufacturers, consistent testing and review procedures could clarify federal requirements and reduce delays. It sets no timetable for new deployments and does not name specific approved systems.
The announcement comes as state, local, tribal and territorial agencies prepare to expand counter-drone capabilities. The FY2027 Counter-UAS Grant Program offers $250 million to protect public events and critical infrastructure.
