New York: Hochul says $17.2M federal Grant Will Boost Anti-drone Security Ahead of World Cup
Albany, New York — New York officials are ramping up security planning ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, announcing more than $17.2 million in new federal funding aimed at detecting and stopping illegal drone activity that could threaten crowds, transportation hubs and critical infrastructure.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said the money comes through the federal Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program and will support equipment and systems to detect, identify, track, monitor and mitigate unmanned aircraft that pose public-safety risks.
Four agencies will split the awards: New York State Police ($6,649,007), New York City Police Department ($6,460,721), Metropolitan Transportation Authority ($2,605,539) and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey ($1.5 million).
The announcement comes as federal officials make $250 million available in fiscal year 2026 for states tied to World Cup events and for the National Capital Region’s America 250 celebrations, with another $250 million slated for fiscal year 2027.
Hochul has also signaled a broader statewide push on drones, including proposals to further limit where drones can fly, expand law enforcement authority to respond to credible threats, and support safe testing of counter-drone technologies, plus a $5 million State Police pilot for “drones as first responders.”
What parents should know: expect tighter drone rules around major venues and transit corridors; if your family owns a drone, double-check flight restrictions and avoid operating near stadiums or large gatherings. For updates, officials say New Yorkers can follow state emergency management guidance and alerts as event security plans are finalized.
