Small drones are ‘the defining threat of our time,’ head of military task force says

Published December 19, 2025 3:51pm ET



The military and federal law enforcement officials are continuing their efforts to expand and develop the country’s counter-drone capabilities as the threat evolves.

The increased use of commercially available small drones has raised significant concerns about local laws, jurisdictions, and how to intercept unmanned systems that pose threats in urban areas. Earlier this year, War Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the formation of Joint Interagency Task Force 401, a new interagency group meant to spearhead the effort.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.