The U.S. Army has announced an ambitious plan to acquire 1 million drones by 2028, an effort to close the technology gap with other countries in utilizing unmanned aerial systems.
According to Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, the goal is to build a strong supply chain and foster an industrial base capable of producing drones at scale. This includes drones for surveillance missions as well as attack missions. This decision was heavily influenced by lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, where the mass use of drones by both sides demonstrated the strategic importance of such equipment on the modern battlefield.
Driscoll said the Army plans to change its perception of drones, no longer viewing them as expensive, sophisticated equipment, but as “disposable munitions” that can be easily replaced. The plans include small armed models such as FPV kamikaze drones to long-range versions similar to Iran’s Shahed-136.
Army officials acknowledge that the United States lags in this area, especially compared to Ukraine, Russia and China. These countries produce millions of drones every year.
Despite the enthusiasm, the logistical and financial challenges are significant. The project’s success will depend on how well the U.S. defense industry can adapt to new demands and simplify the procurement process. The Department of Defense is already trying to accelerate this with new policies. The Army also plans to partner with small businesses and commercial manufacturers to find innovative, low-cost solutions. If its goals are achieved, this program could fundamentally change how drones are utilized in U.S. military operations.
source: The War Zone | Photo: This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team
