US Special Forces Embrace Drone Technology in Evolving Warfare Landscape
In a significant shift in modern warfare tactics, US special operations forces are rapidly incorporating a diverse array of drones into their operations. This move comes as technological advancements in the field necessitate continuous learning and adaptation by operators.
The primary objective is to acquire a large quantity of low-cost drones, each designed for specific purposes. This strategy reflects the changing nature of warfare, where drones are becoming as integral to combat operations as small arms skills and fieldcraft.
Special forces are leading the charge in drone acquisition and training, collaborating closely with industry partners to develop essential capabilities and skills. This partnership is crucial in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Ground drones are playing a pivotal role in this transformation. These unmanned vehicles aim to prevent human operators from being the first point of contact in combat situations, effectively extending the sensory reach of soldiers on the battlefield. Smaller ground drones, some weighing as little as 30 pounds, are particularly useful for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering in urban and subterranean environments.
In the aerial domain, FPV (First Person View) quadcopters are gaining prominence. These lightweight, adaptable drones are utilized for intelligence gathering and payload delivery. Their versatility allows for quick sensor and payload changes based on mission requirements, with the potential for scalable swarm deployment.
Loitering munitions, such as UVision’s Hero and AeroVironment’s Switchblade, are also being showcased. These drones can loiter in the air before striking a target and come in various sizes to meet different operational needs. The Switchblade, in particular, has seen extensive use in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Robot dogs, including models from Ghost Robotics, are attracting interest for their potential in reconnaissance missions and reducing human risk. These unmanned ground vehicles can mimic dog-like movements and are controlled remotely by operators.
However, the rapid pace of technological development raises questions about whether drone operation should be an additional duty for existing personnel or a specialized job role. The challenge lies in quickly mastering the diverse controls and specifications of various drone types.
As the focus shifts towards great-power competition, special forces are emphasizing the importance of integrating new technologies and training teams effectively. This preparation is crucial for potential conflicts involving extensive drone use and countermeasures.
US special forces are demonstrating their expertise in integrating small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) and uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) into operations, solidifying their position at the forefront of this technological revolution in warfare.
