The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) designs resource for first responders and security agencies.
The C-UAS Purchasing Tool provides a standardized framework to help national security and public safety agencies with the purchase of counter unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) that detect, track, identify and mitigate UAS.
“It helps ensure those on the front lines have access to the most effective counter-drone solutions to keep their communities safe,” Steven Willoughby, Program Executive Office for UAS and C-UAS executive director, said.
The tool guides agencies through the equipment selection process by weighing factors such as budget, terrain, and radio frequency environments.
S&T’s National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) developed the tool.
“As drones become a permanent fixture in our airspace, front-line responders must have the right C-UAS tools for the mission,” Alice Hong, NUSTL laboratory director, said. “By providing a data-driven framework to compare vendor offerings, our purchasing tool empowers public safety agencies to make informed, mission-focused procurement decisions with confidence.”
The tool’s launch aligns with Federal Emergency Management Agency’s fiscal year 2026 notice of funding opportunity. The grant program has awarded $250 million to the 11 states hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and the national capital region.