YOUR GUIDE TO COUNTER-UAS PLANNING AND DHS GRANT SUBMISSION
Security Resource Information to Secure Airspace for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Quickly understand the FEMA C-UAS Grant program, what it funds, who is eligible, and the deadlines your agency must meet to submit projects for federal approval.
Start Your FIFA World Cup Airspace Security Program
Use the FEMA supported DHS grant pathway to stand up a complete airspace protection solution.
Step One
Select your fusion engine or integrated air picture software. Proven platforms like Anduril Lattice or SPS UNIFY.C2 are used by the Department of Defense and law enforcement agencies. Single vendor options such as Dronesentry or Trackerai can also meet mission needs.
Step Two
Choose a multi vendor sensor and mitigation package. Combine Remote ID, radar, camera technologies, and approved mitigation tools for a layered security approach supported by the grant.
Step Three
Procure and deploy quickly. Supply chain pressure will increase as agencies place orders. Select systems that can be delivered and fielded immediately to ensure readiness before the tournament.
C-UAS
TECHNOLOGY
Modern protection against unauthorized unmanned aircraft requires a combination of integration software and multiple categories of detection hardware. This page provides a clear overview of how C UAS systems work, the types of sensors agencies can deploy, and the price ranges typically associated with each technology.
C-UAS Integration Software
Integration software is the foundation of a complete C-UAS program. It connects radar, RF detectors, Remote ID receivers, optical sensors, acoustic devices, and mobile units into a single operational picture. Agencies often own some sensors already, but these devices do not communicate without an integration layer. The software receives data from each source, fuses detections, assigns classifications, provides alerts, and supports multi agency coordination.
The most important role of integration software is its ability to work with many sensor types, preserve existing investments, and allow agencies to choose the best equipment for their environment without being tied to a single vendor. This approach prevents vendor lock, reduces long term costs, and increases flexibility as technology evolves.
Detection Hardware Categories
Below are the primary technologies used to detect, track, identify, and monitor unmanned aircraft. Price ranges are approximate and vary by model, coverage area, and vendor.
Remote ID Receivers
Baseline detection for FAA compliant drones.
Use case: Urban grids, stadiums, critical infrastructure
Radar Systems
Detects non cooperative drones without Remote ID.
Use case: Citywide coverage, border areas, large venues
RF Detection Sensors
Detect control signals and drone communications.
Use case: Special events, investigations, real time threat classification
Optical and Thermal Cameras
Provide visual confirmation and payload assessment.
Use case: Day and night visibility, high resolution tracking
Acoustic Detection Nodes
Identify drones through sound signatures.
Use case: Urban canyons, stadium interiors, complex terrain
Mobile and Deployable Kits
Portable detection units for events or tactical needs.
Use case: Temporary deployments, VIP movements, rapid response
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do agencies need integration software
Individual sensors only provide partial detection. Integration software brings all sources together, reduces false alarms, and provides a complete operational picture.
Can agencies keep their existing sensors
Yes. Most programs begin by integrating legacy equipment, allowing agencies to improve coverage without replacing devices they already own.
How do agencies choose which hardware to buy
Most select a mix of detection technologies based on terrain, risk level, and event requirements. Remote ID and RF detectors are common entry points, with radar and cameras added for broader coverage.
What is vendor lock and why should it be avoided
Vendor lock occurs when a system can only use one manufacturer’s sensors. This limits options, increases long term cost, and prevents upgrades as technology advances. Integration centered architectures prevent vendor lock by allowing agencies to mix and match hardware from multiple providers.
Does every sensor have to be purchased at once
No. Agencies often start with one category and expand over time. Integration software allows phased growth without technical disruption.
Grant Application Information
FEMA C UAS Grant Program Overview
The FEMA Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems program provides funding to help states and local agencies strengthen airspace awareness and protect high profile events, including FIFA World Cup 2026 venues. This page offers a clear, accessible explanation of what the program supports, who can apply, and how the application process works. It is designed to help agencies quickly understand the requirements, deadlines, and documentation needed to participate.
What the Grant Funds
The program supports detection, tracking, identification, and monitoring capabilities that improve situational awareness and safety. Allowable purchases include Remote ID receivers, radar systems, RF detection equipment, optical and thermal cameras, acoustic sensors, mobile deployment kits, networking infrastructure, training, planning, and exercise support. Agencies may combine different technologies to build a complete airspace picture tailored to their operational environment.
Eligibility and Prioritization
State Administrative Agencies serve as the official applicants to FEMA. Local law enforcement, emergency management, airport units, and other public safety organizations may receive subawards through their state. States with FIFA host cities and major special events receive priority consideration, along with jurisdictions that demonstrate clear operational need or existing airspace security gaps.
Key Dates and Requirements
Each state must submit its full application to FEMA by DECEMBER 5, 2025, the published federal deadline. Local agencies must provide their project documentation to the State Administrative Agency well before that date. Submissions typically require a project summary, capability gap description, budget worksheet, and relevant supporting materials. States review all requests, consolidate them into a statewide package, and enter final materials into FEMA GO.
How Projects Are Evaluated
Projects are assessed on their alignment with detection, tracking, identification, and monitoring objectives, their ability to support multi agency coordination, and their readiness for timely deployment. Programs that build on existing capabilities, integrate multiple detection modalities, and support protection of mass gatherings score favorably. States may also weigh regional needs and prior investments when prioritizing local requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who applies to FEMA
Only State Administrative Agencies submit applications. Local agencies participate through their state.
Who receives the funding
Cities, counties, airport units, and public safety agencies receive subawards after state approval.
What equipment is allowed
Any technology that improves detection, tracking, identification, or monitoring. Mitigation is restricted to federally authorized entities.
Can agencies use existing equipment
Yes. The program supports building on current capabilities and integrating legacy systems into broader deployments.
What is needed to start
A clear definition of detection needs, an outline of existing assets, and early coordination with the State Administrative Agency.
BUDGETING
CONSIDERATIONS
-
Entry Package, approximately $150K
Includes integration software and a Remote ID detection grid, providing essential coverage and a unified operational picture for smaller areas. -
Mid Package, approximately $850K
Adds radar, cameras and RF detection for non cooperative drones, improving tracking accuracy, classification confidence, and overall situational awareness. -
Full Package, approximately $2.8M
Delivers multi sensor citywide coverage with radar, RF, optical, thermal, and mobile units, supporting major events and complex operational environments.
NOTE: These figures are ROM Estimates Only
Planning for C-UAS security requires balancing detection needs, operational timelines, and available funding. Agencies should consider the cost of integration software, the number and type of sensors required for adequate coverage, installation expenses, training, and ongoing support. Many agencies begin with essential detection tools, then expand over time as budgets allow.
C-UAS Integration Software
Typical price range: $150,000 to $2,500,000 per year
Remote ID Receivers
Typical price range: $5,000 to $10,000 per device
Radar Systems
Short range radar: $45,000 to $125,000
Medium range radar: $125,000 to $275,000
Long range radar: $275,000 to $475,000
RF Detection Sensors
Basic RF detectors: $15,000 to $35,000
Advanced RF characterization systems: $50,000 to $125,000
Optical and Thermal Cameras
Fixed EO cameras: $10,000 to $20,000
Thermal or infrared cameras: $15,000 to $45,000
PTZ verification systems: $25,000 to $65,000
Acoustic Detection Nodes
Typical price range: $7,500 to $20,000
Mobile and Deployable Kits
Typical price range: $45,000 to $150,000