JIATF 401 has committed over $600 million at record speed to enhance counter-UAS capabilities for Operation Epic Fury, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and homeland defense.
The task force allocated $350 million during Epic Fury’s first month to meet urgent combatant command requirements. “Our mission from day one: move with speed and purpose against an evolving threat,” said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross.
Another $100 million will support the FIFA World Cup with mobile counter-drone technologies for stadiums and fan zones in 11 cities across nine states. After the event, these systems—employed by Army National Guard units under Transformation in Contact—will become flexible assets for installation commanders.
A further $158 million under the Domestic Shield initiative protects highest-priority defense critical infrastructure, with expedited surveys and rapid validation ensuring tailored, integrated protection.
“The speed and scale reflect extraordinary coordination,” said Michelle Self, rapid acquisition deputy. “What traditionally took years now happens in months. This whole-of-government approach is essential to defending the homeland and sustaining global operations.”
