In Columbia, Tennessee, a man has been charged with federal crimes after allegedly attempting to use a drone equipped with explosives to attack an energy facility in Nashville, according to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Skyler Philippi, 24, is accused of planning a targeted strike on critical infrastructure as part of a larger scheme motivated by extremist ideology.
Reports indicate that Philippi initially expressed interest in mass violence when he spoke to a confidential source about his intent to commit a mass shooting at a local YMCA in June 2024. The DOJ further detailed that Philippi discussed the vulnerabilities of interstate power substations, theorising that simultaneous attacks on these facilities could cause a cascade of failures across the grid.
Recognising the limitations of previous substation attacks, Philippi reportedly shifted his plan from shooting at facilities to deploying a UAS armed with explosives. The DOJ stated that he intended to fly a drone equipped with an explosive payload into a targeted substation, believing this approach would achieve a more substantial impact.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said:
“As charged, Skyler Philippi believed he was moments away from launching an attack on a Nashville energy facility to further his violent white supremacist ideology – but the FBI had already compromised his plot.”
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco added:
“As alleged in today’s charges, Skyler Philippi, a man dedicated to white supremacist ideology and the destruction of our critical infrastructure, planned to attack Nashville’s power grid using a drone carrying an explosive device. Thanks to brave work by the FBI, his scheme was thwarted.”
In September 2024, Philippi conducted reconnaissance of a targeted substation alongside undercover FBI operatives. He also procured explosive materials, including black powder for pipe bombs, and discussed methods for maximising the damage. The DOJ alleges that Philippi conveyed to a confidential source, “If you want to do the most damage as an accelerationist, attack high economic, high tax, political zones in every major metropolis.”
On November 2, Philippi participated in a ritual that included reciting Nordic prayers and referencing Norse mythology. He reportedly declared, “This is where the New Age begins,” signalling his commitment to execute a significant act. Shortly after, he and undercover agents arrived at the operation site, where Philippi’s drone, armed with an explosive device, was prepared for deployment. Law enforcement intervened before any attack occurred, taking Philippi into custody at the scene.
Philippi has been charged with attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and attempted destruction of an energy facility. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
This incident highlights the increasing threat to public safety that drones pose, demonstrating how easily they can be transformed into weapons of mass destruction. Ensuring counter-drone security through UAS detection and airspace management is a key priority at many critical sites, however installing counter-UAS measures at every such site is not currently feasible.
Post Image: Skyler Philippi (pictured) attempted to take out energy infrastructure with an armed drone.
