The Modern York Police Department is poised to deploy its first anti-drone defense system in time for major summer events, including the celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversary of the United States, officials said. The announcement comes as federal authorities prepare to authorize the NYPD to neutralize hostile drones operating within the city’s airspace.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch revealed on February 10 that the department is awaiting final approval from the federal government to implement the counter-drone technology. According to a report in the New York Post, President Trump is expected to grant the final authorization.
One company vying for a contract with the NYPD, Ondas Autonomous Systems, possesses technology capable of remotely taking control of drones and landing them safely. Eric Brock, CEO of Ondas Holdings Inc., which owns American Robotics, explained that the system identifies a drone’s radio frequency and then “override[s] the encryption and basically steal[s] the drone.” Brock indicated that although a deal with New York has not been finalized, discussions are ongoing with security officials at the state, local and federal levels.
American Robotics’ Iron Drone technology utilizes “interceptor drones” equipped with radar to locate hostile drones and deploy a lightweight mesh net to disable their rotors. A parachute then safely lowers the unmanned aerial vehicle to the ground. Brock suggested a “layered system” for cities like New York, prioritizing drone takeover as a first response, followed by net interception if necessary.
The NYPD recently received a $6.5 million Federal Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) grant, according to a department spokesperson. Individual NYPD drones currently cost between $15,000 and $20,000, according to a law enforcement source.
Brock stated that the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with eight matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is driving the White House to expedite the deployment of these technologies. “These things have to be ready to be deployed by then. So it’s coming,” he said.
Beyond the World Cup, potential targets for drone threats include the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks and the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence in New York Harbor.
However, the implementation of drone defense technology has raised concerns among some law enforcement professionals. Retired NYPD sergeant and John Jay College of Criminal Justice adjunct professor Joseph Giacalone cautioned that the technology could pose risks to public safety. “You’re trying to protect, let’s say Times Square, but you also have to remember everybody’s so jammed together taking one of these things down could . . . Cause physical injury to people too,” he said.
A veteran NYPD officer emphasized the require for strict oversight, noting the potential for misuse. “Outside the US they’re using these drones to kill innocent civilians,” the officer said, referencing the conflict in Ukraine. “But we got so many knuckleheads as cops, there should be a lieutenant or a captain overseeing it.”
Currently, the FBI holds the sole authority to intercept rogue drones. Tisch stated on Tuesday that the NYPD would soon be able to launch its drone defense systems, but did not provide a specific timeline.
