President Donald Trump has said that the new White House ballroom being constructed on the site of the former East Wing will include a “drone-free roof,” highlighting enhanced security measures as the project’s scope and estimated cost have expanded.

The remarks came during a press briefing on December 29, when Mr. Trump described the roof and other features, saying the structure would be “bigger than I told you” and equipped with bullet-proof glass and protective design elements to ensure it cannot be approached by unmanned aircraft.

The statement reflects the administration’s emphasis on robust security for the new facility, which Mr. Trump has suggested could serve as a venue for future inaugural ceremonies and other formal events.

The planned ballroom is part of a broader modernization initiative for the White House complex, involving demolition of the historic East Wing and construction of a 90,000-square-foot addition that presidential aides have said will dramatically increase the capacity for state dinners and official functions.

Mr. Trump previously described the project as privately funded by himself and supporters, with earlier estimates of approximately $400 million, up from initial projections of $300 million.

He has repeatedly emphasised that the undertaking will not burden taxpayers and called it a “big, beautiful, safe building.”

The expansion has drawn scrutiny from architectural and preservation groups as well as lawmakers concerned about its impact on the historic property and the planning process.

The National Capital Planning Commission is scheduled to receive a formal presentation on the project in January, initiating a public review phase.

Construction crews have already demolished the old East Wing, clearing the way for the new structure.

Supporters of the project argue that a large indoor venue is a long-overdue enhancement to the White House complex, giving the administration greater flexibility for hosting dignitaries, cultural events and other major gatherings.

Critics have questioned the project’s design, cost transparency and adherence to preservation norms.

The president and his aides maintain that the ballroom will stand as a lasting addition to the White House grounds, combining state-of-the-art security and functionality with architectural dignity.

Mr. Trump’s comments on the “drone-free roof” underscore broader efforts to integrate advanced protective measures into the building’s design, aligning with security priorities at the nation’s seat of government while signalling his personal imprint on White House renovations.