States Prepare to Tap Defense Contractors for World Cup Security

Counter-drone contracts to cover the men’s World Cup in 2026 are set to begin before the end of the year, as part of a scramble by the federal government to fast-track legislation and programs authorizing aerial defense capabilities.

A March executive order from President Donald Trump established a task force under the Department of Homeland Security to coordinate federal collaboration with state and local authorities in carrying out counter-uncrewed aircraft operations during the tournament.

Tied to that order, DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate expects to release a solicitation this week for aerial threat detection and mitigation at high-profile events such ...