Defending America’s Skies: Public Support for Homeland Counter-Drone Operations

Brooks Tech Policy Institute’s Non-Resident Senior Fellow Dr. Paul Lushenko and Dr. Jennifer Spindel of the University of New Hampshire in a new study challenge the assumption that Americans oppose counter-drone operations on domestic soil. The study provides the first experimental evidence on this topic and was presented to the National Security Council at the White House. According to the study there are three main factors that influence public support, namely: the nature of the drone incursion, the identity of the authority authorizing the response, and the perceived impact on public safety. The findings indicate that despite concerns about potential unintended consequences, such as loss of life or property damage, the American public generally supports such operations.