America is Not Prepared for Drone Warfare in the Homeland – Yet
In an op-ed published by The Hill, Woods Rogers Principal Carter Lee describes the complicated web of federal laws that could pose a national security threat as drone warfare becomes a reality. With the White House signaling that it would consider drone strikes against Mexican drug cartels, our country’s military planning should include a closer look at current laws that govern unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
“Currently, the only entities statutorily allowed to conduct counter-drone activities, notwithstanding other potentially applicable laws (such as those mentioned above), are the Departments of Justice, Homeland Security, Defense and Energy,” Carter explains. “However, even these agencies are mostly only allowed to engage in limited mitigation activities to counter drones presenting a credible threat to designated facilities or assets.”
He continues, “Alongside legislative and policy changes allowing both federal and non-federal entities to contribute to counter-drone efforts effectively, it is essential to educate potential stakeholders in conducting counter-drone operations in collaboration with the appropriate governmental entities… These steps could go a long way in addressing the drone threat in a responsible manner, and thus enhancing domestic security and response capabilities.”
Team
Principal
