Defense Secretary Hegseth announced on Thursday the creation of a new joint task force to counter the growing threat of hostile drones.
The Pentagon will establish Joint Interagency Task Force 401 to develop affordable counter-drone capabilities for U.S. forces. The move comes as small unmanned aerial systems increasingly threaten American military personnel and facilities both domestically and overseas. The task force signals the Defense Department’s urgency in addressing vulnerabilities exposed by recent drone incidents.
Hegseth directed the Secretary of the Army to formally establish JIATF 401 as a unified team drawing talent from multiple agencies. The task force will report directly to the Deputy Secretary of Defense to streamline decision-making and resource allocation.
“We’re moving fast — cutting through bureaucracy, consolidating resources, and empowering this task force with the utmost authority to outpace our adversaries,” said Secretary Hegseth. “Make no mistake — under this administration and President Trump’s leadership, we will innovate, we will lead, and we will win.”
The Pentagon emphasized its commitment to protecting personnel, equipment, and facilities through enhanced counter-UAS capabilities. The formal establishment memo provides additional details on the task force’s structure and authorities.
JIATF 401’s mission extends beyond military installations to promoting sovereignty over national airspace. The interagency approach aims to leverage expertise across government to develop comprehensive drone defense solutions.