Convening on Malicious Drone Threats and C-UAS Developments 2026

Law enforcement agencies nationwide face a growing threat from the malicious use of drones. Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are increasingly being used to conduct surveillance, disrupt large public gatherings, and—in conflict zones abroad—carry explosives and other lethal payloads. As international conflict and global instability continue, police leaders are increasingly concerned about how malicious drone use could threaten public safety in the United States. Significantly, the legal and operational landscape is changing. New federal legislation is changing agencies’ abilities to detect, track, and mitigate hostile drones. The FBI has opened a new facility in Alabama dedicated to counter-UAS training, signaling the seriousness of the threat and the growing need for coordinated law enforcement response. Given the current global situation and the approach of major international sporting events, on May 7, 2026, PERF will bring together key stakeholders to assess where the profession stands on the increasing threat of malicious drone use. Law enforcement agencies are already developing and implementing strategies to address the risks, and some have developed genuine expertise; our discussion is intended to examine what agencies are doing now and how those efforts can be strengthened and aligned across jurisdictions. PERF has invited representatives from the FBI; FAA; DOJ; DHS; and other federal, state, and local organizations engaged in counter-UAS efforts to share current practices and lessons learned and to explore opportunities for improvement and coordination moving forward. We invite you to participate in this important discussion.