FBI targets drones with fiber optics to expand surveillance and counter anti-drone technology

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FBI targets drones with fiber optics to expand surveillance and counter anti-drone technology
FBI targets drones with fiber optics to expand surveillance and counter anti-drone technology (X @GrandpaRoy2)

The FBI aims to expand its technological arsenal with fiber-optic controlled drones, a technology that became common in the Ukraine war due to its immunity to interference and its ability to maintain a stable connection even in complex environments.

The Bureau issued a request for information to suppliers capable of delivering both wired models and traditional radio-frequency drones, seeking solutions for high-risk operations, confined spaces, and scenarios where radio signals often fail.

Drone usage has been growing among U.S. federal agencies, especially for intelligence gathering, locating suspects, inspecting buildings, and enhancing tactical team security. While robotic technologies have already been employed lethally in extreme situations, such as the bomb disposal robot used by the Dallas police in 2016, there is no indication that the new drones sought by the FBI are intended for offensive purposes. According to official documents, the goal involves surveillance, operational support, and training, including the development of countermeasures against similar drones.

The initiative comes amid increased use of anti-drone systems by cartels along the border, capable of detecting and jamming unmanned aircraft signals. Experts warn that criminal groups are rapidly adopting interference technologies, although their primary use is still against rival cartels. In this context, the FBI emphasizes that transnational cartels remain among its top priorities, with thousands of investigations underway, more than 850 of them directly linked to criminal leadership.

In addition to fiber-optic models, the Bureau seeks drones that are durable, portable, capable of at least 30 minutes of flight, and priced under $12,000. The trend highlights how technological advances driven by the conflict in Ukraine continue to influence U.S. domestic security. Even without details on the number of units it intends to acquire, the FBI’s interest demonstrates growing adaptation to modern threats, especially those operating in enclosed, underground, and highly contested environments.

Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @GrandpaRoy2 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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