The ungoverned sky: Drones and the domestic extremist threat
AI Analysis
The article highlights the increasing use of drones by domestic extremist actors, emphasizing the inadequacy of current counter-drone frameworks. It suggests the need for multi-layered defense systems and international cooperation to address these threats effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Domestic extremist groups are increasingly using drones for attacks.
- Current counter-drone systems are insufficient for emerging threats.
- Technologies like 3D printing and AI are making drone modification easier.
- International cooperation and knowledge-sharing are recommended.
- The Russia-Ukraine conflict has advanced drone warfare capabilities.
Why It Matters
The strategic significance lies in the growing threat posed by non-state actors using drones, which challenges existing security frameworks. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for protecting civilian and critical infrastructure, requiring updated policies and international collaboration.
The ungoverned sky: Drones and the domestic extremist threat | Lowy Institute
The ungoverned sky: Drones and the domestic extremist threat
On this page
- What is the problem?
- What should be done?
- Extremist non-state actors and drone use
- The Ukraine addition
- The domestic warning signs
- Threat recognition and response
- Remaining vulnerabilities
- Policy recommendations
- Conclusion
- Acknowledgements
Policy Brief
The ungoverned sky: Drones and the domestic extremist threat
The combination of easy accessibility and payload potential, and the limitations of domestic counter-drone systems, presents a growing challenge.
By James Paterson, Lydia Khalil
22 March 2026
Photo: Facu de Lellis/500px via Getty Images
On this page
- What is the problem?
- What should be done?
- Extremist non-state actors and drone use
- The Ukraine addition
- The domestic warning signs
- Threat recognition and response
- Remaining vulnerabilities
- Policy recommendations
- Conclusion
- Acknowledgements
Listen to this policy brief
Key Findings
- Domestic extremist actors are incorporating drone technology into operational capabilities and attack plots, taking inspiration from the battlefield. The number of violent plots utilising drones has increased sharply over the past five years.
- Domestic counter-drone frameworks are mismatched to the threat. Effective protection requires layered, multi-system approaches across potential civilian targets and critical infrastructure.
- Easy-to-access technologies, such as 3D printing, open-source design files, additive hardware, and AI-assisted navigation are lowering the barriers to modifying and weaponising drones.
What is the problem?
In the past two decades, drones have transformed from niche military tools into widely available “commercial off-the-shelf” technologies. What was once the exclusive domain of state actors now rests within reach of nearly anyone with a credit card and a data signal. With uncrewed aircraft systems — or drone platforms — becoming cheaper, smaller, and easier to operate, the number of drone plots by domestic extremist groups has increased rapidly. In the last two years alone, US law enforcement personnel thwarted two extremist plots involving drones, and the Australian Federal Police arrested seven individuals in connection with a plot to use an explosive-laden drone. Remote-controlled drones are a low-cost option for intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, transport, and attack preparation. Drones are easily modified and weapo