Pentagon Invests In Hardened Structures & Nets for Drone Defense

Pentagon’s Shift to Passive Defenses Against Drone Threats

The U.S. Department of Defense has issued new guidance emphasizing passive physical defenses like netting, cables, and barriers to protect critical infrastructure from drone attacks. This marks a significant policy shift, as military officials have historically downplayed the value and cost-effectiveness of investing in physical hardening for bases and facilities, particularly aircraft shelters.

The change reflects growing recognition of drones as a persistent threat, drawing lessons from conflicts like Ukraine where simple measures have proven effective against low-cost uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).

Release of JIATF-401 Guidance and Broader Context

The Joint Inter-Agency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401), established by the Pentagon in August to coordinate counter-drone efforts, released a three-page document on “Physical Protection of Critical Infrastructure.” While focused on civilian sites such as power plants and sports venues—in collaboration with the White House’s FIFA Task Force ahead of the 2026 World Cup—the guidance applies equally to military installations. Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, JIATF-401 director, highlighted its relevance for events like concerts or forward operating bases, providing a unified playbook for risk assessment and protection against nefarious drones. This follows expanded authorities for base commanders to address threats beyond immediate perimeters.

The HOP Framework for Counter-Drone Protection

The guidance introduces the HOP framework—Harden, Obscure, Perimeter—as a core strategy. “Harden” involves selective obstacles like nets, tensioned cables, concrete walls, or enclosures to disrupt drone access and deter low-cost attacks, including repurposing stadium netting for UAS interference. “Obscure” emphasizes camouflage, decoys, and operational changes to hide targets, reducing drone effectiveness. “Perimeter” focuses on expanding security zones to force drones to operate from farther away, straining their capabilities and improving situational awareness, while addressing challenges in urban environments and domestic enforcement.

Evolving Military Perspectives and Global Implications

Despite past resistance from U.S. Air Force leaders, who favored dispersal over hardening due to precision-guided munitions and budget constraints, recent developments signal a rethink. Incidents like unexplained drone swarms at Langley Air Force Base and upgrades to modular structures by the Army Corps of Engineers underscore the need for physical barriers. Conflicts in Ukraine and attacks on Russian bases highlight drones’ destructive potential, while adversaries like China and Russia invest heavily in hardened infrastructure. The Pentagon views HOP as part of a layered defense, not a sole solution, with initiatives like an Amazon-style marketplace accelerating access to counter-drone tools.