US Coast Guard forms mobile counter-drone teams

The U.S. Coast Guard is establishing mobile counter-unmanned aircraft system (UAS) teams to protect high-profile domestic gatherings, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations. The initiative is funded by $150 million in reconciliation funding and involves cross-training traditional enlisted rates like yeomen, engineers, and boatswain mates on drone defense systems. The service plans to expand by 15,000 personnel over two years, with 2,000-3,000 designated as robotic mission specialists. Mobile teams will rotate between event sites rather than providing continuous coverage, reflecting resource constraints as the Coast Guard adapts to what officials called 'a whole new mission set' for domestic security operations.