WASHINGTON – On Monday, United States Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin attended the Second Annual Countering the Threat: Drone Security Industry and SLTT Grant Forum, where federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and industry leaders discussed counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) priorities, available federal resources, and planning for major national events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.
The forum, held at MGM National Harbor in Maryland, was hosted by the White House Task Force (WHTF) on the 2028 Summer Olympics and co-hosted by DRONERESPONDERS and the Commercial Drone Alliance.
“Homeland security includes our skies. Unauthorized drones are a serious and growing threat to public safety, critical infrastructure, and national security,” said Secretary Mullin. “DHS is bringing together federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and industry partners around training, technology, information sharing, and lawful response authorities. Our focus is not just one event – it is building a lasting capability that can keep pace with an evolving threat.”
As the United States prepares to welcome the world for the 2028 Summer Olympics, DHS and its partners are building on lessons from FIFA World Cup 2026 to strengthen drone detection, identification, tracking, and response capabilities. Discussions at the forum addressed emerging drone threats, protection of critical infrastructure, and security planning for large-scale events.
Attendees also received information on the Counter-UAS Grant Program, which provides $500 million over two fiscal years to help communities build drone-security capabilities. In Fiscal Year 2026, DHS awarded the first $250 million to the 11 states hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and the National Capital Region. The remaining $250 million is available in Fiscal Year 2027 to all 56 states and territories, with a focus on building lasting nationwide detection and response capabilities.
Secretary Mullin was joined by Nicholas Forni, Deputy Executive Director of the WHTF on the 2028 Summer Olympics, and Dr. Michelle Nordman, Senior Advisor for the WHTF on the 2028 Summer Olympics. DHS Under Secretary for Management Brian Cavanaugh and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Cameron Hamilton also delivered remarks.