DHS Orders Drone-Catching Nets for 2026 World Cup

Fortem Technologies’ DroneHunter interceptor system will be deployed to ‘protect events’ in 11 states.

Jack Daleo

Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 07:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Fortem’s hexcopter-based DroneHunter system uses a net to capture a second drone. [Credit: Fortem Technologies]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has placed a multimillion-dollar order with Fortem Technologies for drone-catching net systems to secure venues during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The ordered system includes net-deploying interceptor drones, ground-based radar, and command-and-control software, chosen for its ability to neutralize drone threats without causing collateral damage.
This acquisition is part of a broader, significant investment by DHS and other federal agencies in counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) technology and programs to address growing drone threats at major events.
Federal C-UAS authorities are expanding, supported by recent legislation and increased enforcement by agencies like the FAA, underscoring a serious commitment to countering illicit drone activities.

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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has placed a “multimillion-dollar” order for drone-catching nets that will be stationed at U.S. venues scheduled to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June and July.

Utah-based Fortem Technologies, the recipient of the DHS order, estimated that more than 1 million spectators will visit the U.S. for the global spectacle, making it “one of the most complex security undertakings” for a sporting event. The company—which was previously enlisted to provide counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) support during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar—said that thousands of people packed into stadiums make “high-value targets” for nefarious actors.