Spectacular Drone Strikes and the Future Sanctuary of the U.S. Homeland

Recent spectacular drone strikes by Ukraine and Israel have raised serious questions about whether the U.S. homeland will remain a sanctuary from conventional attack. These operations used pre-positioned, inexpensive drones to cripple high-value targets deep inside enemy territory, a feat previously requiring long-range missiles or advanced cyber capabilities. However, these strikes are exceptionally difficult to execute, resembling complex intelligence operations that require months of planning, detailed intelligence, and elite special forces. Understanding the immense logistical challenges and state-level resources needed for such attacks is crucial for accurately assessing the true threat to the United States.