Strong Introduces Legislation to Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Protect our Homeland

WASHINGTON—Representative Dale W. Strong (R-AL) introduced H.R. 8590 to counter the evolving threat posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS or “drones”) and ensure the safety and security of Americans. 

“In recent years, we have witnessed a surge in threats posed by UAS, both from incursions across our Southwest border and within the interior of the United States. I have seen firsthand during trips to the border - hostile actors such as terrorists, cartels, and criminal organizations exploiting UAS to carry out illegal activities, including the transportation of weaponized payloads, surveillance, and attacks on domestic critical infrastructure,” said Representative Dale Strong. 

This emerging threat to our homeland presents a need for robust training on UAS detection and counter-UAS operations. More must be done to ensure that our authorized law enforcement officers and personnel are equipped with the resources and tools needed to respond to these threats in real time and guarantee the safety of our communities. 

“I am proud to represent a community that both understands the urgency of the threat posed by unlawful unmanned aircraft systems and possesses the capability to defend against these attacks. The Fifth District of Alabama is home to some of the brightest minds in the world, solving complex issues and forging new defense technologies every day. It is vital that our nation remain at the forefront of technology and training and use every tool at our disposal to protect against those who seek to undermine our national security through the nefarious use of drones,” said Strong. 

H.R. 8590, the “National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act” will establish a dedicated counter-UAS training program to train personnel seeking to operate counter-UAS detection and mitigation systems, equipment, or technology on measures to address a credible threat that a UAS poses to the safety or security of a covered facility or asset.