S. 1908: Border Drone Threat Assessment Act

This bill, known as the Border Drone Threat Assessment Act, proposes that the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security must create a detailed threat assessment concerning unmanned aircraft systems (drones) that operate at or near the international borders of the United States. The assessment is to be completed within one year of the bill's enactment and will involve collaboration with various intelligence and defense authorities.

Key Elements of the Bill

• Definition of Terms: The bill defines several key terms including "malign actors," which refers to individuals or groups engaged in harmful activities, and "unmanned aircraft systems," commonly known as drones.
• Geographical Scope: The term "at or near the international borders of the United States" is defined as within 100 air miles of these borders.
• Threat Assessment Components: The threat assessment must cover various elements, such as:
  • Identification of malign actors using drones near U.S. borders.
  • Methods for identifying and assessing threats posed by drones.
  • Data and information collected by drone operators and how it may be misused.
  • Tactics used by malign actors regarding drone operations.
  • Guidance on privacy and civil liberties for lawful drone operators.
  • U.S. government capabilities to counter drone threats.
  • Evaluation of the current state of air domain awareness at the borders.
  • Assessment of U.S. government authorities related to countering drone threats.

Reporting Requirements

• Report Submission: Within 180 days of completing the threat assessment, the Under Secretary of Defense must submit a report to specified congressional committees detailing the findings from the assessment.
• Report Components: This report must include:
  • Identification of threats to national security from malign actors using drones.
  • Summary of existing responsibilities and protections related to drone operations at the borders.
  • Recommendations for potential changes to authorities or resources needed for improved security against drone threats.
• Briefing: Additionally, a briefing on the report must be provided to congressional committees within 90 days of submission.

Consultation and Coordination

The Under Secretary must work with various officials, including:

• The Commander of the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)
• The Director of National Intelligence
• The Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis of the Department of Homeland Security
• The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration

This collaborative approach aims to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems at or near international borders.

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