U.S. Military Selects Five Bases for Anti-Drone Pilot Program to Enhance Homeland Defense
The U.S. Army-led Joint Interagency Task Force 401 has selected five military installations to participate in an anti-drone pilot program. This initiative, included in the fiscal 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, aims to counter unlawful and adversarial drone activity using advanced directed energy capabilities. The selected bases are Fort Huachuca in Arizona, Fort Bliss in Texas, Naval Base Kitsap in Washington, Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota, and Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. The program will integrate cutting-edge technology, such as high-energy lasers and high-powered microwave systems, to mitigate risks posed by drones. This decision follows recent anti-drone laser tests conducted by the Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration in New Mexico.