Experts sound alarm on US drone defense gaps after Ukraine’s surprise attack

The recent surprise attack by Ukraine on Russian offensive weapons caches has raised concerns about the vulnerability of the United States to similar drone attacks. Retired Army Special Forces commander Col. Seth Krummrich warned that the U.S. remains susceptible to drone strikes due to policy and authority processes that need to be addressed.

Krummrich highlighted the ease with which drones can be modified for lethal purposes, as well as the availability of this technology to both state and non-state actors. He emphasized that drones are difficult to intercept once in motion, posing a significant threat to national security.

Retired General David Grange, who recently returned from Ukraine, described the country’s use of drones as a textbook example of asymmetric warfare. He warned that a drone-based attack on U.S. soil would be challenging to intercept once initiated, similar to the events of 9/11.

Grange estimated that there are thousands of potential threats already in the U.S., making it crucial for authorities to prepare for potential drone attacks. He emphasized the need for a proactive approach to deterrence and the importance of closing the gap between emerging threats and countermeasures.

The recent sightings of suspicious drones near military installations and President Trump’s golf club underscore the urgency of addressing vulnerabilities in homeland defense. Grange stressed the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local governments, as well as private industry, to enhance security measures.

House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism Chairman August Pfluger emphasized the need to secure the skies from unauthorized aerial systems and protect critical infrastructure from foreign adversaries. The Pentagon reiterated its commitment to conducting threat assessments and developing tailored response options to safeguard service members and installations.

In response to the escalating threat landscape, President Trump proposed the development of a “Golden Dome” missile defense system similar to Israel’s Iron Dome. The U.S. currently lacks such a system, highlighting the need for advanced defense capabilities to counter evolving threats.

As the U.S. navigates the evolving threat landscape posed by drones and cyber warfare, it is crucial to stay ahead of emerging technologies and prioritize national security. The Ukraine-Russia conflict serves as a stark reminder of the new face of warfare and the importance of proactive deterrence measures to safeguard the homeland.