US Air Force and Secret Service step up efforts to counter growing drone threats

The US military is strengthening its preparations against drone-related security risks by bringing military personnel and federal law enforcement agents together for practical training.

Last month, Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF 401) conducted a counter-drone exercise at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. The training involved members of the 6th Security Forces Squadron and agents from the US Secret Service.

The exercise focused on improving how participating personnel defend critical installations and infrastructure against evolving drone threats. It also gave them hands-on experience with emerging counter-unmanned aircraft systems (counter-UAS), including the Bumblebee V2 interceptor and the Paladin counter-drone system. The exercise brought these technologies into realistic training activities so operators could become more familiar with their capabilities and how they may be used.

Two systems provide different interception options

The Bumblebee V2 and Paladin use different approaches to countering hostile drones. The Bumblebee V2 uses super intelligence-enabled target recognition to help operators identify and intercept hostile unmanned aircraft through direct collision. The Paladin system takes a different approach, employing a net-based interceptor. According to the report, this provides another low-collateral option for defeating aerial threats.

Using more than one type of system reflects the need for different capabilities when responding to drone activity. The technologies featured in the exercise give operators alternative interception options rather than relying on a single method. The training also allows the task force to work directly with personnel responsible for protecting installations and infrastructure.

Army Maj. Jeremy Kelly, JIATF 401 assistant capability manager, said that putting new technology in the hands of operators is only part of the solution. He explained that training alongside installation-defence personnel helps refine these capabilities and develop the skills needed to use them effectively. His remarks underline the importance of combining advanced equipment with practical training.

Joint training supports wider homeland defence effort

Army Brig. Gen. Matthew Ross, director of JIATF 401, described the need for layered counter-drone capabilities by comparing them to a golfer choosing different clubs for different shots.

His point was that defending the homeland requires a variety of options, particularly as threats continue to evolve. He said agencies must expand their ability to defeat drones while minimizing risks to people and infrastructure. He also highlighted the value of training with joint and interagency partners to strengthen UAS capabilities and improve homeland protection.

The MacDill exercise builds on earlier JIATF 401 training with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 75th Ranger Regiment. By working with these units, along with the 6th Security Forces Squadron and Secret Service agents, the task force is expanding counter-drone proficiency across the joint force and strengthening partnerships that support homeland defense.

Air Force Staff Sgt. Cameron Thompson, a defender with the 6th Security Forces Squadron, expressed confidence in the installation’s protective arrangements. “Our airspace is secure,” he said. He added that the layered defense was intended to stop anything that came through and intercept any attempt to breach the airspace. The exercise highlights JIATF 401’s efforts to bring together emerging counter-drone technologies, hands-on training and cooperation with military and federal law enforcement partners. The broader objective is to improve their ability to respond to evolving drone threats and protect critical installations and infrastructure.

Source: https://interestingengineering.com/military/us-air-force-secret-service-bumblebee-paladin-drone