US Stands Up New Drone Strike Force in the Middle East

Drone warfare has emerged as one of the leading modes of combat in the modern era. The US military, like its foreign counterparts, appears to be prioritizing the development of sophisticated and lethal drones that could potentially play a leading role in combat operations. This week, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it would be forming a new task force for the military’s premier one-way attack drone squadron based in the Middle East. Though Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth released the memo surrounding the rapid integration of unmanned aerial vehicle technology across all military branches over the summer, the new Task Force Scorpion Strike is only now officially equipped and ready to deploy drones.

“This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent,” said Navy Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Equipping our skilled warfighters faster with cutting-edge drone capabilities showcases U.S. military innovation and strength, which deters bad actors.”

According to the press release published by CENTCOM, the new joint task force is coordinating its efforts primarily in three areas: capability, tech diplomacy, and software. Reports indicate that the American-made LUCAS drones (Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System drones) have already been delivered to Task Force Scorpion Strike. Hegseth viewed 18 American-designed drone prototypes at the Pentagon over the summer. In an effort to incentivize the speedy build-up of new models, the display ultimately showcased new prototypes that were constructed over the span of roughly 18 months. In the past, a six-year timeline for production was typical, making the timely display quite significant.

The LUCAS drone, which was showcased at the Pentagon during Hegseth’s visit back in June, was designed to be a cheaper yet deadlier alternative to Iran’s Shahed-136 series.

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