The rapid evolution of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) is reshaping how security officials plan for large-scale public events, with new capabilities and tactics raising concerns about potential risks to crowded venues.
A newly released white paper, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): Evolving Risks to Large-Scale Public Gatherings, outlines how commercially available drones have become more capable, accessible, and adaptable—changing the threat landscape for event security planners. Many systems now offer extended flight times, increased speed, and the ability to carry payloads, while first-person view (FPV) drones allow operators to navigate in real time without maintaining a direct line of sight.
These advancements, combined with the spread of online instructional material related to modifying and weaponizing drones, have lowered the barrier for misuse by a range of actors. Security officials have increasingly pointed to global conflicts, including those in Ukraine and the Middle East, as environments where drone tactics have rapidly advanced and are now more widely understood.
Federal agencies have begun responding to these developments. A December 2025 Federal Communications Commission national security determination identified major venues—including those tied to events like the World Cup and Olympics—as potential targets for drone-enabled surveillance or disruption. Additional policy actions, including Executive Order 14305 and provisions within the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, have expanded authorities and focused attention on countering drone threats, particularly at high-profile events.
Even with these steps, gaps remain. Traditional event security measures—such as perimeter controls and screening—offer limited protection against airborne threats. Open-air venues, including fan zones and public gathering areas, often lack consistent counter-UAS coverage. At the same time, legal authorities governing drone detection and mitigation remain complex, particularly across federal, state, and local jurisdictions.
Technology used to detect drones continues to improve, but challenges persist. Systems relying on radio frequency, radar, electro-optical, and acoustic sensors can provide awareness, but may struggle in dense environments or against newer systems designed to avoid detection. Distinguishing between legitimate drone activity and potential threats also remains a key operational challenge.
While the likelihood of a large-scale drone attack remains assessed as low, the range of possible scenarios—from isolated disruptions to coordinated operations—continues to expand. The report emphasizes the need for layered, intelligence-driven approaches that combine multiple detection methods and adapt to the specific risks of each event environment.
As major global events approach, the findings highlight the importance of preparing for a threat that is no longer theoretical.
