Trump unveils ‘drone-proof’ WH ballroom

Washington: US President Donald Trump described the new White House ballroom project as a “drone-proof” military-grade structure designed to protect the presidential complex, saying it would become “one of the most beautiful buildings” in Washington.

During a walkthrough of the construction site with reporters, Trump said the ballroom was being funded by himself and private donors and would serve both ceremonial and national security purposes. He said the structure would include a reinforced roof capable of supporting military operations and advanced drone systems.

“It’s drone proof,” Trump said. “And it’s meant for our military to be able to stay on it.” He added the roof would function as a “drone port” capable of handling unlimited numbers of drones.

According to Trump, the ballroom complex has been integrated with underground security infrastructure exte­nding several storeys below ground level. The project incl­uded a hospital and research facilities beneath the site. The structure would feature “impenetrable steel” and four-inch-thick reinforced glass. He estimated private donors and companies had contributed “close to $400 million” towards the project.

—IANS