In an approach where technology is rapidly transforming the battlefield, U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll warned of the urgent threat posed by drones and flying improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

In conversation with CBS, Driscoll, the official, described these technologies as a “threat to human life,” underscoring the need for rapid adaptation and strong regulation. “If you look at the speed and scale of the devastation that drones can cause, we, as the federal government, have to lead on this,” Driscoll said. “But I’m really optimistic.” This is something we're actually doing well.”

Driscoll noted that the U.S. military has taken ownership of the drone threat for the Pentagon and is working “closely with law enforcement agencies.”

Driscoll cautioned about the characteristics of Improvised Explosive Devices, warning that, “They're cheap, you can 3D print them at home, and they cross borders incredibly fast.”

This assessment comes as drones are increasingly influencing conflict zones around the world, from Eastern Europe to the Americas.

Furthermore, Driscoll's warning resonates with policymakers and military strategists who have observed the rapid proliferation of unmanned aerial systems over the past decade.

“I'm quite optimistic that we'll be able to find a solution where we know what's in the sky at any given moment across our entire country, simultaneously,” he stated. Driscoll, suggesting a future in which real-time monitoring could mitigate risks. According to official data, last year there were more than 350 unauthorized drone flights over approximately 100 military installations, according to the Department of Defense, along with more than 27,000 drones detected within 500 meters of the U.S. southern border in the second half of 2024. Meanwhile, the number of unauthorized flights during sporting events decreased slightly last year, although the overall trend continues to rise, according to NFL data. Driscoll said the Army is working with law enforcement agencies at borders and ports of entry, and at major events such as upcoming NFL games, the Olympics, and the World Cup. “This is something we as a nation can lead on,” Driscoll said. “And that’s why, under President Trump’s leadership, we are acting quickly on this problem.”

Driscoll said that “Much of this is a human problem of communication, command and control, and having a set of layered solutions that can be used for any given problem.”

Driscoll’s warning resonates with policymakers and military strategists who have watched the rapid proliferation of unmanned aerial systems over the past decade.

“I’m quite optimistic that we will be able to find a solution where we know what’s in the sky at any given moment across our entire country, at the same time,” Driscoll stated.