Trump wants $1B to protect White House ballroom from drones and other threats

In a bold move, President Donald Trump has proposed a $1 billion plan aimed at enhancing security for the White House ballroom, featuring a militarized design that includes a fortified rooftop resistant to drone attacks. During a press briefing on May 19, he showcased plans for a 'drone port' capable of accommodating military drones, emphasizing its role in safeguarding the capital. The president's vision includes a ballroom roof fashioned from 'impenetrable steel' that he claims would be 'drone-proof' against potential aerial threats. To fund these extensive security measures, Trump is pressing Republican lawmakers in Congress to allocate taxpayer dollars to support what he describes as necessary 'security adjustments and upgrades' for the ballroom project. This security initiative is distinct from the $400 million construction cost already covered by private donations from major companies such as Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. However, it remains uncertain whether the proposed anti-drone features and the rooftop drone port will be integrated into the final design of the ballroom. Trump's comments align with recent government efforts to bolster security measures against drone-related risks. In January 2026, the Pentagon released a 'Guide for Physical Protection of Critical Infrastructure,' advocating for enhanced security protocols that include physical barriers to obstruct drone access to sensitive locations. These recommendations indicate a strategic shift in the U.S. military's approach to countering drone threats, as noted by The War Zone.