LAPD Boosts Airspace Protection with Multi-Million Dollar Grant

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has approved a plan to accept a federal grant worth $9.8 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The primary goal of this funding is to enhance the department's capabilities in detecting, tracking, and monitoring unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) that pose potential security threats. The plan, proposed by Police Chief Jim McDonnell, has now been forwarded to City Hall for review by Mayor Karen Bass and the City Council.

This funding is allocated under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, part of a national effort to control urban airspace. The LAPD plans to use these funds to implement a comprehensive defense system, including:

  • Installing 24 radio frequency (RF) sensors across the city.
  • Establishing mobile drone neutralization stations and a central tracking system.
  • Equipping patrol officers with handheld anti-drone devices.
  • Forming a dedicated mobile drone tracking team.

Intervention Technology and Key Protected Areas

The sensor systems and monitoring stations will be strategically placed in locations such as LAPD headquarters and the Mt. Lee communication tower in Griffith Park, the iconic area behind the Hollywood sign. The primary method for dealing with unauthorized drones will be "cyber takeover" technology, allowing police to interfere with signals to force the device back to the operator's location. Additionally, frequency jamming or net capture methods will be employed depending on the specific situation.

In addition to the defense system, the LAPD Civilian Oversight Commission has also approved an additional $2.1 million from the LA Police Foundation to expand the "Drone as First Responder" program. This program allows drones to access the scene of 911 emergency calls before police officers arrive. Deploying drones helps provide real-time imagery and precise suspect locations, thereby enhancing safety and effectiveness in apprehension operations.

The Importance of National Airspace Security

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security emphasizes that addressing drones represents a "new frontier" in national security strategy. The federal government has spent over $115 million on airspace protection programs in preparation for major international events such as the 2026 World Cup and the nation's 250th anniversary. Since 2018, authorities have successfully conducted over 1,500 anti-drone missions across the United States.

Beyond Los Angeles, many other major cities, such as New York, are also considering implementing similar drone defense systems ahead of major events this summer. The LAPD's new strategy is expected to create a robust security network, protecting residents and visitors from the growing challenges posed by increasingly prevalent unmanned aerial vehicle technology.