THE FOLLOW UP
STATEMENT

DHS says it broadened authorities in December to allow wider counter-drone actions

True

Evidence from credible sources supports the statement as accurate. Learn more in Methodology.

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directive

DHS authorities were broadened to authorize Department Components and specified partners to take expanded counter-drone actions.

Source summary
The Department of Homeland Security announced a new Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems to accelerate procurement and deployment of drone and counter-drone technologies. DHS says the office will finalize a $115 million investment this week to help secure America250 celebrations and 2026 FIFA World Cup venues, and has requested proposals for a separate $1.5 billion contract vehicle. The announcement also notes expanded DHS authorities for counter-drone operations and cites more than 1,500 missions conducted since 2018.
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Latest fact check

Congress included the SAFER SKIES Act in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act in December 2025 and the President signed the NDAA into law on December 18, 2025; the SAFER SKIES provisions explicitly expand counter‑UAS authority to State, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) law enforcement and correctional agencies. DHS’s Jan. 12, 2026 press release correctly states authorities were broadened in December to authorize DHS Components and SLTT partners and correctional agencies to combat drone threats. Verdict: True — primary sources (the enacted SAFER SKIES provisions in the NDAA and the White House signing statement) confirm the expansion described by DHS.

Sources

Timeline

  1. Update · Jan 12, 2026, 10:55 PMTrue
    Congress included the SAFER SKIES Act in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act in December 2025 and the President signed the NDAA into law on December 18, 2025; the SAFER SKIES provisions explicitly expand counter‑UAS authority to State, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) law enforcement and correctional agencies. DHS’s Jan. 12, 2026 press release correctly states authorities were broadened in December to authorize DHS Components and SLTT partners and correctional agencies to combat drone threats. Verdict: True — primary sources (the enacted SAFER SKIES provisions in the NDAA and the White House signing statement) confirm the expansion described by DHS.
  2. Original article · Jan 12, 2026
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