The US Army is preparing for a significant shift in its capabilities, driven by the growing threat of drones. Secretary Dan Driscoll described the problem as "humanity's lifetime" and emphasized the need for a layered defense approach to counter this threat.
Under Secretary of War Hegseth, the Army has been tasked with leading the counter-drone effort, partnering with federal law enforcement agencies, and working with private industry to develop solutions. The Army is investing in sensors, brushless motors, circuit boards, and other components to build its own drones, which will be sold or leased to the private sector.
Driscoll acknowledged that China's production of drones exceeds 12-14 million units per year, while the US is currently producing around four million units annually. The Army aims to close this gap by leveraging American industry, partnering with leading companies in the tech sector, and investing in cutting-edge technology.
The Secretary also spoke about the importance of understanding drone usage patterns, particularly in regions like Ukraine, where drones have been used extensively. He highlighted the need for data exchange between federal agencies and law enforcement to combat this threat effectively.
In other news, Driscoll discussed the ongoing government shutdown and its impact on military families. The Army Secretary emphasized the need for sustained funding for veterans' affairs and military construction projects to ensure that troops receive the support they deserve.
Regarding international relations, Driscoll praised Ukraine's efforts in manufacturing drones and utilizing this technology against Russian forces. He noted that American industry is now working closely with Ukrainian innovators to develop counter-drone solutions, highlighting the potential benefits of collaboration between nations on security issues.
Driscoll also expressed concerns about China's military capabilities, particularly its drone production capacity. The Army aims to close the gap by investing in cutting-edge technology and partnering with leading companies to improve its own drone capabilities.
Overall, Driscoll emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive counter-drone strategy that leverages federal agencies, law enforcement, and private industry to stay ahead of this growing threat.
Under Secretary of War Hegseth, the Army has been tasked with leading the counter-drone effort, partnering with federal law enforcement agencies, and working with private industry to develop solutions. The Army is investing in sensors, brushless motors, circuit boards, and other components to build its own drones, which will be sold or leased to the private sector.
Driscoll acknowledged that China's production of drones exceeds 12-14 million units per year, while the US is currently producing around four million units annually. The Army aims to close this gap by leveraging American industry, partnering with leading companies in the tech sector, and investing in cutting-edge technology.
The Secretary also spoke about the importance of understanding drone usage patterns, particularly in regions like Ukraine, where drones have been used extensively. He highlighted the need for data exchange between federal agencies and law enforcement to combat this threat effectively.
In other news, Driscoll discussed the ongoing government shutdown and its impact on military families. The Army Secretary emphasized the need for sustained funding for veterans' affairs and military construction projects to ensure that troops receive the support they deserve.
Regarding international relations, Driscoll praised Ukraine's efforts in manufacturing drones and utilizing this technology against Russian forces. He noted that American industry is now working closely with Ukrainian innovators to develop counter-drone solutions, highlighting the potential benefits of collaboration between nations on security issues.
Driscoll also expressed concerns about China's military capabilities, particularly its drone production capacity. The Army aims to close the gap by investing in cutting-edge technology and partnering with leading companies to improve its own drone capabilities.
Overall, Driscoll emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive counter-drone strategy that leverages federal agencies, law enforcement, and private industry to stay ahead of this growing threat.