New York Governor Kathy Hochul wrote to President Donald Trump this week, calling on the federal government to quickly give New York State greater authority to respond to potential threats posed by armed drones; Hochul stressed that action must be taken before it is “too late.”
The two-page letter was dated July 8, just months after the frequent sightings of large unidentified flying objects in the New York metropolitan area at the end of last year. At the time, the federal government said that most of the objects shot down were scientific research-authorized drones or devices operated by amateurs. However, Hochul pointed out that these incidents highlight the shortcomings of the federal defense structure and the limitations of state governments in detecting and responding to such threats.
“I write this letter to draw your attention to the threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS) – drones – which requires immediate federal intervention,” Hochul wrote in the letter. She and Trump have previously disagreed on issues such as Manhattan congestion fees, tariffs and immigration.
In the letter, Hochul asked the federal government to develop a comprehensive drone safety strategy and authorize states to detect and shut down suspicious drones on their own. Although it did not specify how to “shut down” drones, the New York Police Department (NYPD) has begun evaluating technologies that can intercept and safely land drones, such as netting with parachutes.
A state government spokesman said that if President Trump approves the request, it will help New York City officially purchase the relevant equipment. “It would be great if a metropolitan area like New York City could gain expanded authority and capabilities.”
Hochu also emphasized in the letter that no matter what means are taken, priority should be given to protecting “densely populated areas, public facilities and military assets” and ensuring the safety of various large-scale events. She specifically mentioned that the New York area will usher in many international events in the summer of 2026, including World Cup events, sailing parades, international naval reviews, the largest-ever Messi fireworks show, and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the country, “all of which will become potential major targets of attack.”
Hochu has previously made similar calls to Congress, and this time again urged Trump to take action as soon as possible. “The security of our state and our nation depends on a coordinated and robust response to the drone threat,” she wrote. “I urge you to make this issue a priority and act quickly before it’s too late.”
