Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) has introduced the Detecting and Evaluating Foreign Exploitation of Novel Drones (DEFEND) Act, a bill aimed at strengthening congressional oversight regarding the potential misuse of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) by foreign adversaries and terrorist organizations.
The proposed legislation would amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002, requiring the Department of Homeland Security to conduct annual terrorism threat assessments on malicious drone use. These assessments would be delivered as classified reports to Congress, with accompanying unclassified annexes for public review. Each report must also be briefed to Congress within seven days of submission.
Drones have played a significant role in recent conflicts, including those in Ukraine and the Middle East, where they have been used for precision strikes over long distances. The technology poses increasing risks not only for surveillance but also for critical infrastructure and civilian safety. Drones are capable of delivering dangerous payloads such as chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear weapons. They are also being utilized in smuggling operations, swarm attacks, and espionage activities.
Recent advancements in drone technology—including AI-driven targeting systems, encrypted communications, and improved cyber resilience—make these threats more difficult to detect and counter.
Rep. Crane is Arizona’s sole representative on the House Homeland Security Committee. He stated: “As drone technology rapidly transforms the modern battlefield, Congress can’t afford to be in the dark on these evolving threats. Due to the widespread availability of drones, adaptable payloads, and remote capabilities, America must maintain a decisive tactical advantage,” said Rep. Crane. “The DEFEND Act ensures Congress has the knowledge necessary to effectively allocate resources to defend our homeland. I encourage my colleagues to back this approach to close this intelligence blind spot.”
The bill has gained support from several key members of the House Committee on Homeland Security: Chairman Andrew Garbarino (R‑NY), Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events Chairman Michael McCaul (R‑TX), Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology Chairman Dale Strong (R‑AL), and Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection Chairman Andy Ogles (R-TN).
Eli Crane has represented Arizona’s 2nd district in Congress since 2023 after succeeding Tom O’Halleran [source]. Born in Tucson in 1980, Crane currently resides in Oro Valley.
