WASHINGTON, DC – Dr. Neal Dunn (FL-02) continued his work to defend our military today, urging the House Armed Services Committee to incorporate his legislation, the Military Assets Protection Act, into the annual defense authorization bill. The legislation will clarify the authority of the military to defend facilities and assets against Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), or drones.
 
“This is not a theoretical threat. Terrorist groups including the Islamic State have increasingly used armed drones against our allies overseas,” Dr. Dunn said. “As the tactics and technology of weaponized drones are proven on battlefields abroad, they will be exported to our shores for attacks and espionage against U.S military installations here at home. Our Armed Forces face a new threat from drones, and the law needs to catch up.”
 
Committee Chairman Mac Thornberry (TX-13) echoed Dr. Dunn’s concerns, stating, “There is no question within the last year we have seen enemies using armed drones against us, against our allies.” Chairman Thornberry also said, “we need to have the laws keep up with the change in tactics and technology as the gentleman said.”
 
Rep. Ralph Abraham (LA-05) followed up, stating, “[I] certainly agree with you,” and “it is a threat that is going to become more and more critical as time moves on very quickly here.”

“Our military needs to know we have their backs. Clarifying current law and code is crucial in strengthening the Defense Department’s legal authority to neutralize enemy drones that threaten homeland assets and installations,” added Dr. Dunn.  
 
On March 8th of this year, General John Hyten, the Commander of U.S. Strategic Command, stated his concern about “unauthorized flights of unmanned aerial systems over Navy and Air Force installations. These intrusions represent a growing threat to the safety and security of nuclear weapons, and personnel.”  

Dr. Dunn recently introduced the Military Assets Protection Act with Representative Colleen Hanabusa (HI-01), a member of the Armed Services Committee. Representatives Jack Bergman (MI-01) and Don Bacon (NE-02), both former general officers and military aviators, are cosponsors, as well as Representative Jacky Rosen (NV-03).

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