DHS Tests Counter-UAS Tech for State and Local Law Enforcement

The Department of Homeland Security began testing commercial counter-drone technology with state and local law enforcement on October 1, 2023. The week-long evaluation at a federal test facility focused on mitigation systems under operational conditions.

A team from the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's National Urban Security Technology Laboratory conducted the five-day assessment in August. First responders from across the country evaluated several commercially available Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System technologies. NUSTL Director Alice Hong stated the assessment is testing mitigation aspects of products under operational conditions. Operational Suitability Test Director Kris Dooley and Operational Effectiveness Test Director Blaise Linn led the effort.

Operational scenarios and feedback

Participants tested systems across simulated real-world scenarios. The first involved a credible threat to a public gathering, evaluating equipment portability. The second was modeled on mitigating incoming drones during a high-security Special Event Assessment Rating event.

Law enforcement officers used the systems to detect, track, and mitigate incoming UAS threats. Sergeant Jordan Kennedy of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said it was a great experience to learn about the different available systems. Sergeant Kindu Franklin of the Atlanta Police Department is determining how C-UAS will work in his city. Carl Sedita, the Air Support C-UAS Coordinator for the Houston Police Department, also participated.

The NUSTL team is documenting results and feedback for the law enforcement community. Blaise Linn said they will prepare reports covering equipment physical characteristics and usability. Linn added they will address how well the technology works from the perspective of established performance metrics.

Authorities and procurement context

New federal requirements and upcoming grants shape how agencies can acquire and use counter-UAS technology. Congress included the SAFER SKIES Act in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act. This extends C-UAS authorities to qualified state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement and correctional agencies.

A joint DHS and Department of Justice interim final rule took effect on July 1. It establishes requirements for agencies exercising new C-UAS authority. The framework includes separate levels for drone detection and warning operations and for mitigation. Agencies must meet federal requirements for training, certification, approved technologies, airspace coordination, reporting, and privacy protections. The expanded authority does not allow state or local law enforcement to disable drones at will.

The new DHS field testing represents a practical next step as agencies consider how to use expanded authorities. DHS said the testing gives agencies hands-on experience with available technology before purchasing decisions. The effort supports agencies preparing for upcoming federal C-UAS procurement grants.

Law enforcement agencies will soon receive NUSTL’s documented results and feedback to inform their technology acquisition decisions.