Secret Service develops new program to counter drone swarm threats

The Secret Service is launching a multimillion-dollar program to develop offensive and defensive capabilities against drone swarms, which officials describe as a significant and unsolved threat. Deputy Director Matthew Quinn is leading the initiative, which aims to address the evolution of security risks from lone gunmen to coordinated drone attacks.

New technological tools being integrated into the agency's arsenal include radar-guided drone hunters equipped with artificial intelligence. These devices are designed to disable and capture enemy drones using nets.

Officials noted that the conflict in Ukraine has served as a testing ground for the weaponization of drones. The agency is applying lessons learned from that theater to prepare for potential domestic threats to large-scale events, such as concerts, sporting events, and campaign rallies. Secret Service Director Sean Curran emphasized the necessity of proactive planning to avoid being caught unprepared by these evolving technologies.