House passes bipartisan provision to boost U.S.-Israel cooperation on counter-drone technology
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives this week passed bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening cooperation between the United States and Israel on the development of technology to counter hostile unmanned aerial systems, often referred to as “killer drones.”
The measure, led by Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 House Defense Appropriations bill, which follows a surge in drone attacks across the Middle East, including those targeting American and Israeli forces.
“Last month, Israel faced more than a thousand killer drones launched by Iran — the same drones that have been launched at American troops in the region,” said Gottheimer, who serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. “Iran is the parent company of terror, and Iranian-backed terror groups continue to target innocent American and Israeli civilians.”
Gottheimer said the amendment will enhance joint technological efforts to detect and neutralize drone threats, helping protect both nations’ civilians and military personnel. He called the legislation “a concrete step to defend our troops, protect civilians, and support our key democratic ally, Israel.”
The bipartisan amendment was co-sponsored by Reps. Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.), Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Don Davis (D-N.C.), and Herb Conaway (D-N.J.).
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
