# DHS Deploys C-UAS for 2026 World Cup Security

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through its National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) and Science and Technology Directorate, executed a comprehensive counter unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) strategy to secure 11 U.S. venues during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This initiative involved detailed site-specific planning, deployment of advanced sensors, and coordination with federal, state, local agencies, and private infrastructure operators. The effort was supported by FEMA's **$250 million C-UAS grant program** awarded in December 2025 to enhance detection, identification, tracking, and mitigation capabilities across the World Cup host states and the Washington, DC metro area. The after-action analysis from this large-scale event is expected to inform future security planning for major events such as the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.

- **Key agencies involved:** DHS, NUSTL, Science and Technology Directorate, Customs and Border Protection, FEMA
- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the significant federal investment in C-UAS technologies and the emphasis on multi-agency collaboration for large event security
- **Actionable insights:** Vendors specializing in advanced sensor technologies, UAS detection, and mitigation solutions may find emerging opportunities through FEMA grant programs and DHS contracts
- **Strategic implications:** Organizations supporting federal, state, and local security operations should prepare for increased demand in C-UAS capabilities and integration services for upcoming large-scale events

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 21, 2026

### Government Entities
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL)
- Science and Technology Directorate (S&T Directorate)
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

### Key Quotes
> The 2026 FIFA World Cup [represented] an unparalleled scale of event security and coordination. The insights and lessons gained from this undertaking will significantly inform the planning and execution of future [large scale] events, including the multi-city Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics.
> — Teddy Damour, NUSTL Engineer

### Sources
- [The U.S. C-UAS Playbook That Protected the World Cup](https://www.executivebiz.com/articles/cuas-dhs-world-cup-nustl-super-bowl-counter-drone) - ExecutiveBiz