WASHINGTON, DC (LOOTPRESS) – Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is urging federal officials to deploy advanced drone-detection technology in New York and New Jersey, citing growing security concerns and recent incidents involving unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Schumer emphasized the critical need to protect high-risk infrastructure and crowded public spaces from potential threats posed by unauthorized or malicious drone activity.
A Growing Concern
Speaking at a press conference in Manhattan, Schumer highlighted the increasing frequency of drone-related incidents in urban areas, including near airports, sporting events, and public gatherings.
“The proliferation of drones has created new challenges for law enforcement and public safety officials,” Schumer said. “While drones have many positive uses, we cannot ignore the risks they pose if misused, either accidentally or deliberately.”
Schumer specifically pointed to several high-profile cases where drones disrupted air traffic or raised security alarms near sensitive facilities, including airports in New York and New Jersey.
The Technology Requested
Schumer is calling on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fast-track the deployment of cutting-edge drone-detection and mitigation systems to safeguard critical infrastructure.
These systems use advanced sensors, radar, and artificial intelligence to identify and track drones in restricted areas. Some technologies also have the ability to neutralize unauthorized drones using non-lethal methods such as signal jamming.
Schumer urged federal agencies to work closely with local law enforcement to ensure proper training and integration of the technology.
“This isn’t just about detecting drones—it’s about giving our law enforcement agencies the tools they need to respond quickly and effectively,” Schumer added.
Focus Areas for Deployment
The Senator is advocating for the technology to be deployed in high-risk areas, including:
- Airports: Preventing drones from interfering with aircraft operations at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports.
- Critical Infrastructure: Protecting bridges, tunnels, and energy facilities.
- Public Events: Enhancing security at major sports venues and large gatherings.
Federal Action Urged
Schumer’s request follows the FAA’s recent warnings about a sharp increase in drone activity near restricted airspace. While current federal laws prohibit flying drones in certain areas without authorization, enforcement has proven challenging without adequate detection tools.
“The technology exists—we just need to make it a priority,” Schumer said, pressing DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker to expedite the rollout.
Public and Expert Reaction
Experts have praised Schumer’s initiative as a necessary step to address the risks associated with the rapid growth of drone use.
“Drones are becoming more sophisticated, and the potential for misuse is growing,” said Dr. Michael Simmons, a cybersecurity and drone technology specialist. “Investing in detection systems is essential for urban centers like New York.”
However, privacy advocates have raised concerns about the potential misuse of drone-detection systems, calling for transparency and oversight to ensure the technology is not used to infringe on civil liberties.
Next Steps
Schumer plans to introduce a formal resolution in the Senate urging immediate action and is expected to meet with federal officials in the coming weeks to discuss funding and deployment timelines.
“This is about staying one step ahead of the curve,” Schumer concluded. “New York and New Jersey cannot afford to be vulnerable to the dangers drones can pose.
