The Washington National Guard is expanding its Washington counter UAS training efforts as part of preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is expected to bring millions of visitors to the Seattle area. Officials say the initiative is designed to strengthen defenses against potential drone threats at major public events and critical infrastructure sites.
A large counter-UAS field demonstration was held on June 2 at the Yakima Training Center in Washington. The event brought together federal, state, and local agencies, including active-duty military units, state defense forces, emergency management teams, and the Civil Air Patrol. Participants observed live demonstrations of drone detection, tracking, and interception technologies.
The Washington National Guard said the event marked a major step in building a coordinated drone defense system. Leaders described it as a unique nationwide effort to bring multiple agencies together to rehearse real-world scenarios involving unmanned aerial systems. Officials believe this type of cooperation will be essential during large international events like the World Cup.
Air Force Maj. Gen. Gent Welsh said Washington is taking a leading role in preparing for drone-related security challenges. He said the state is the only one actively organizing such large-scale joint training ahead of FIFA events. He added that the goal is to build long-term readiness, not just prepare for a single tournament.
The Washington counter UAS training program has been developing over the past year. The Washington Military Department hosted a summit in late 2025 that brought together experts from government, industry, and academia. The goal was to discuss the growing risks posed by drones and how to respond to them in public safety environments.
Following that summit, the Western Regional Counterdrug Training Center launched a basic counter-UAS course. The program teaches participants how to detect drones, identify threats, understand legal rules, and plan responses. Law enforcement officers and military personnel from across the region have already joined the training.
Officials say interest in drone defense has increased quickly. FBI agent Phil Randolph said that just a year ago, agencies were not focused on drone threats near stadiums. He said the situation has changed rapidly, and law enforcement is now actively preparing for such risks.
The Seattle Police Department is also taking part in preparations for the World Cup. Officers have attended specialized counter-drone training in Alabama to improve their ability to respond to aerial threats during large public events.
During the Yakima demonstration, participants tested a range of technologies. These included drone detection systems, electronic tracking tools, signal disruption methods, and safe interception techniques. Agencies also discussed how these tools could be used in real operational settings during emergencies or major gatherings.
Officials say the Washington counter UAS training effort is not limited to World Cup security. Leaders emphasize that drone threats are expected to increase in the future as technology becomes cheaper and more widely available. They say continuous training and coordination will be required beyond 2026.
Army Col. Phillip Lamb described the Yakima Training Center as a key national asset for testing and training. He highlighted its large open space, which allows multiple agencies to conduct realistic exercises. He said the site is ideal for developing advanced counter-drone strategies.
Military leaders have also proposed turning the facility into a national center of excellence for counter-UAS training. According to Army Col. Craig Broyles, the base already has classrooms, training areas, and infrastructure needed to support long-term programs.
Officials say the Civil Air Patrol’s integration into the Washington Military Department has further strengthened capabilities. This coordination allows better communication and faster response in drone-related incidents.
Welsh said drones can be used for both positive and dangerous purposes. He noted their value in agriculture, public safety, and commercial work, but also warned that they can be misused as weapons. He stressed the importance of staying ahead of evolving threats.
The Washington counter UAS training initiative reflects a broader national concern about unmanned aerial systems. Security officials say drones are increasingly being used in ways that challenge traditional airspace monitoring and defense systems.
As preparations continue for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Washington leaders believe the partnerships built through these exercises will improve readiness across multiple agencies. They say the goal is to ensure safe and secure public events while also building long-term defense capabilities against emerging aerial threats.
