The U.S. Central Command announced the formation of a squadron of Low-Cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drones in the Middle East.
The drone squadron is part of Task Force Scorpion Strike (TFSS) a task force developed after Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth directed the acceleration of acquiring and fielding affordable drone technology. TFSS is designed to deliver low-cost and effective drone capabilities into the hands of soldiers, CENTCOM said.
“This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent,” said 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.”
LUCAS drones deployed by CENTCOM have extensive range, the department said, and are designed to operate autonomously via multiple launch mechanisms from catapults to rocket-assisted takeoffs to mobile ground and vehicle systems. Earlier this year, CENTCOM launched the Rapid Employment Joint Task Force (REJTF) to fast-track processes for outfitting deployed forces with emerging capabilities.
Officials said the task force is coordinating innovation efforts among service components in three areas – capability, software and tech diplomacy. TFSS’s efforts to build the one-way-attack drone squadron are led by Special Operations Command Central personnel, officials said, and align with the REFTF’s capability focus area.