FBI: Drones Part of Alleged Plot at White House UFC Event

Agency allegedly foiled a planned attack that included “potential drone launch locations” near the White House.

Jack Daleo

Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 05:03 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Silhouette of a drone in flight [Credit: JeShoots/Pexels]

Key Takeaways:

The FBI foiled an elaborate multi-state plot to attack a UFC event near the White House using explosive-laden drones and snipers, leading to multiple arrests.
The sophisticated plan involved a diversion to force thousands of attendees into a sniper ambush after drone detonations, with tactical blueprints shared via encrypted messaging.
This incident highlights the growing threat of rogue drones, prompting significant federal investment in counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) technology, funding, and training for law enforcement to secure public events and sensitive locations nationwide.

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Small, explosive-laden drones were allegedly part of a foiled attack on the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House on Sunday, FBI Director Kash Patel announced via social media on Tuesday.

With well over 1 million drones registered in the U.S., incursions at sporting arenas, military installations, and other locations have become more rampant. Per an FBI affidavit filed with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, the White House is allegedly a target, too.