As drone technology continues to progress at a rapid pace, experts in the industry are alerting Congress about possible risks to airspace that could become a major national security concern if they remain unaddressed.

During a U.S. House Homeland Security Subcommittee session last week, specialists in the drone field highlighted the risks that unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) pose to airspace safety. 

“More than half of all near misses with commercial and general aviation are with drones,” Tom Walker, CEO of DroneUp, told Fox News Digital. 

“U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents and officers have intercepted thousands of pounds of narcotics, including a sufficient amount of fentanyl to lethally affect tens of thousands globally,” Willoughby stated. “There has been a growing use of drones for executing kinetic attacks or warring cartel actions, where explosives are delivered by drones. It is only a matter of time before such tactics are aimed at Americans or law enforcement along the border,” he warned.

The FAA did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. 

The implementation of a nationwide, real-time database of UAS flights could ultimately allow drones to exist alongside manned aircraft, further cementing the United States’ ability to protect both its domestic and international assets while aiding its citizens. 

“We should have both manned and unmanned aircraft working together harmoniously in a symbiotic environment and creating a force multiplier that allows us to save more lives,” Walker said. ” It allows us to protect our borders, and allows us to provide services to the general public at a level we’ve never comprehended.”