The Pentagon announced a major reform to massify the use of small drones, including armed models, across all branches of the US military.
The most radical change treats these devices as “consumable ammunition,” simplifying their acquisition and operation. Now, mid-level commanders (such as colonels and Navy captains) will have the autonomy to purchase and authorize the use of these drones, speeding up combat response. This measure aims to correct the historical slowness of the US in adopting this technology, while conflicts like the war in Ukraine show its decisive impact.
The new strategy prioritizes cheap, disposable, and US-made drones, focusing on Group 1 and 2 models (up to 25 kg and 460 km/h). These will be integrated into realistic training, including “drone warfare” simulations. Additionally, military bases will have areas dedicated to testing, and by 2026, all squadrons should be equipped with these devices, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, a strategic area against China.
The plan also encourages rapid innovation, allowing troops to even use 3D printers to manufacture drones in the field.
Despite progress, challenges remain: the current US production is insignificant compared to the 200,000 drones per month produced by Ukraine, and reliance on Chinese parts is concerning. However, the Pentagon bets that the change in mindset, combined with decentralized decision-making, will be a “game-changer.” As one Marine general pointed out: “A soldier with a drone can be as lethal at 20 km as he was with a grenade at 30 meters.”
Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @USArmy | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
