NYPD Unveils High-Tech SUV to Counter Drone Threats

The $984,280 Maverick vehicle can launch drones and neutralize hostile unmanned aerial devices

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:38pm

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The NYPD has purchased a state-of-the-art mobile command unit called the Maverick Unmanned Aerial Systems SUV to help respond to potential terror drone attacks in New York City. The nearly $1 million vehicle can launch its own drones from hidden compartments and is equipped with software to take control of hostile drones.

Why it matters

The Maverick SUV is part of the NYPD's broader strategy to bolster its counterterrorism capabilities and protect large-scale events and critical infrastructure in the city from potential drone threats. This comes as the department was recently awarded a $6.5 million federal grant to combat unmanned aircraft systems.

The details

The Maverick looks like a typical five-seater Chevy Suburban police SUV, but has concealed capabilities inside. It can launch its own drones from hidden compartments to respond to hostile unmanned aerial devices. The vehicle also has a screen to monitor live feeds from detection drones. Additionally, the Maverick is more maneuverable and able to respond more stealthily to emergencies compared to the NYPD's previous drone command vehicle, which was a van.

  • The NYPD announced the purchase of the Maverick on March 21, 2026.
  • The department was recently awarded a $6.5 million federal grant to combat drone threats.

The players

NYPD

The New York City Police Department, which has purchased the Maverick Unmanned Aerial Systems mobile command unit to enhance its counterterrorism capabilities.

FlyMotion LLC

The Tampa, Florida-based company that manufactured the Maverick vehicle for the NYPD.

Jessica Tisch

The NYPD Commissioner who announced that federal authorities are preparing to authorize the department to neutralize hostile drones operating in New York City airspace.

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What they’re saying

“The vehicle will be used by the NYPD for counterterrorism capabilities in securing and protecting large-scale events and critical infrastructure.”

— NYPD

“Maverick is a versatile dual-purpose solution that seamlessly transitions between serving as a regular patrol vehicle and a powerful Command and Control hub for unmanned systems.”

— FlyMotion LLC

What’s next

President Trump is expected to give the final authorization for the NYPD to neutralize hostile drones operating in New York City airspace.

The takeaway

The NYPD's purchase of the high-tech Maverick SUV demonstrates the department's commitment to staying ahead of evolving security threats, particularly the growing risk of drone-based attacks. This investment in advanced counterterrorism technology aims to keep New Yorkers safe during large-scale events and protect the city's critical infrastructure.