US Secret Service drone swarm countermeasure development

The United States Secret Service is developing a multimillion-dollar program to counter drone swarm threats, which officials identify as a significant and evolving security risk. To inform this initiative, agents traveled to Ukraine to observe the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicle technology used in the ongoing conflict.

During these field observations, specialists studied drones that utilize artificial intelligence and internet connectivity to track and intercept other drones. The agency is looking to apply lessons learned from the Ukrainian theater to prepare for potential domestic threats to large-scale events, such as sporting events, concerts, and campaign rallies.

As part of the new program, the agency is integrating technological tools including radar-guided drone hunters equipped with artificial intelligence. These devices are designed to capture and disable enemy drones using nets. Secret Service Director Shawn Ryan emphasized the urgency of these preparations, stating, “We must operate under the assumption that this is possible.”