Army Leaders at Pacific Symposium Discuss Drone Use and Future Technologies

U.S. Army Pacific forces are integrating uncrewed systems into daily operations across the Indo-Pacific region. Last week, the 25th Infantry Division used uncrewed vehicles, vessels, and aircraft during a simulated battle on a Philippine beach. This week, two drones flew above the USARPAC commander during his keynote address at the symposium.

Gen. Ron Clark said the Kestrel quadcopter was built by soldiers at The Forge and can be adapted for munitions delivery or one-way attack missions. He also referenced a Skydio X10 used for short-range reconnaissance. Clark stated that soldiers should not be sent into combat when an unmanned system can perform the task.

Drone Defense Measures Lt. Gen.

Matthew McFarlane said passive defense measures are essential as drone use expands. These include placing command posts underground and covering them to reduce aerial detection. McFarlane noted that forces must protect against the air threats observed in current conflicts.

Adm. Samuel Paparo described the spread of small, inexpensive unmanned systems as one of three major trends reshaping warfare. He said this commoditization has expanded access to capabilities once limited to major powers and has increased the cost of traditional ground, air, and amphibious assaults.

Planning for Future Capabilities Gen.

U.S. military must look beyond current drone technology. He warned against focusing solely on drones and urged consideration of commercial space systems as the next offset. Brunson stated that warfare requires continuous adaptation and that remaining fixed on any single technology would leave forces unprepared.