US-based UAS (Unmanned Ariel Systems, IE Drones) Reports Continue to Rise
1. In 2017, there were approximately 3,000 reports of UAS over or near US critical infrastructure,
according to reports from federal, state, local, and private sector security partners, primarily from
firsthand visual reports and UAS recoveries. Despite this, most UAS are likely non-malicious but could
present a risk to public safety. The small size, relatively low cost, and relative ease of use of UAS
makes them attractive to lone offenders or anarchist extremist, criminal, violent extremist, and terrorist
organizations for smuggling, aerial logistics or messaging.
2. sUAS are widely available and relatively inexpensive, ranging in cost from $200 to $5,000, while
commercial UAS, which are not as widely available, can cost up to $30,000 and are more
technologically advanced. Flight times and operational range for UAS of all sizes vary depending on
the payload, battery size, propulsion system, operator skill, and environmental influences like weather
and terrain. sUAS are usually battery powered and can average between 15 and 30 minutes of flight
time while fixed-wing UAS may have longer flight ranges and can fly up to three hours, typically using
combustible fuel.
3. Outlook
The FBI, DHS, and NCTC assess UAS activity over the next 24 months will likely increase
as costs for these systems continue to decrease, technology offers greater range and payload, and
platforms become more user friendly. As hobbyist and commercial use of UAS increases, new and
creative legitimate uses for UAS will likely emerge. However, threat actors could use these legitimate
innovations in sUAS for malicious purposes and could increase usage if a symbolic UAS attack occurs
and inspires other actors to do the same. FBI, DHS, and NCTC urge state and local authorities, as well
as private sector security partners, to promptly report suspicious activities related to UAS.