Dale Strong Urges Counter-Drone Plan for Big Events
Alabama’s Dale Strong calls for tighter drone defenses and interagency planning before World Cup, America 250 and LA Olympics
With the nation preparing to host some of the largest global events in its history, U.S. Representative Dale Strong (R-AL-05) is urging federal, state and local officials to tighten coordination and strengthen drone defense plans before the crowds arrive.
During a recent hearing of the House Committee on Homeland Security titled “Before the Whistle: Assessing Information Sharing and Security Collaboration Ahead of Major Events,” Strong said the stakes have never been higher. Lawmakers reviewed security planning ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, known as America 250, and the 2028 Summer Olympics.
“As we prepare to host the FIFA World Cup and other major international events, we face an unprecedented mix of security challenges,” Strong said during the hearing. “Our ability to protect fans, athletes, and host communities will depend on how well we prepare, train, share information, and respond under pressure.”
Strong, who chairs the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, focused much of his remarks on the threat posed by unmanned aircraft systems, often called drones. He warned that rogue devices near stadiums or fan zones could create chaos or worse.
“The threat posed by rogue unmanned aircraft systems to stadiums and fan venues may represent one of the greatest security challenges we face in hosting these large-scale events,” Strong said. “I’m proud to represent Redstone Arsenal, where the FBI has established America’s premier hub for training law enforcement and security professionals to deter and counter drone threats.”
That training center is located at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville and operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The facility provides counter-drone instruction for law enforcement agencies across the country.
Strong also drew on his history of more than four decades as a first responder. He stressed that event security is not limited to federal agents and intelligence briefings. Local fire departments, paramedics and emergency managers are often the first on scene when trouble strikes.
He said real-time data sharing and clear command lines between agencies will be key as millions of Americans and international visitors travel to U.S. cities over the next several years.
With global attention fixed on the United States, Strong told fellow lawmakers that preparation cannot wait until opening ceremonies. Planning, he said, must happen now — and it must involve every level of government.
The full Committee hearing, including Rep. Strong’s remarks, may be viewed on YouTube and below:
