Integrating Drone Technology into Army Training: A Strategic Shift
The U.S. Army’s Transformation-in-Contact (TiC) brigades are leading the charge in innovating training methodologies and technologies that align with modern warfare demands. At the heart of this transformation is the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia, which is spearheading a significant initiative: certifying soldiers in the operation of small unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This initiative not only enhances the skills of soldiers but also represents a fundamental shift in how the Army approaches drone technology.
Development of UAS Competencies
Central to the Army’s goal of standardizing drone operations across all units is the rigorous qualification process being developed by the 3rd Infantry Division. Captain William Langley, who manages UAS and electronic warfare for the 2nd Armored Brigade’s 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive qualification course that will be adopted Army-wide.
Focus Areas
The program has identified key focus areas that reflect a broader tactical shift:
- Integration of UAS into Tank Units: Rather than reserving drone operations for specialized units, the Army is integrating these capabilities into traditional combat formations.
- Training Standard Infantry and Armor Soldiers: There is a concerted effort to equip all soldiers, not just those specifically trained as UAS operators, with drone operation skills.
As Captain Brenden Shutt, the division’s innovation officer, points out, the legacy systems primarily trained dedicated UAS operators from the 15-series. The new paradigm pushes all soldiers, regardless of their specialties, to gain proficiency in operating drones, thereby maximizing battlefield potential.
Equipment and Training Methodology
The 3rd Infantry Division targets UAS categorized within groups 1 and 2, specifically those weighing under 55 pounds. The division has adopted over 150 units from a range of advanced systems, including:
Notable Systems
- Anduril Ghost-X
- Performance Drone Works C100
- Neros Archer
- Teal 2
- AeroVironment Switchblade 600
These drones are employed mainly in a “hunter-killer” configuration, where reconnaissance assets scout for targets that strike drones can then engage. This integrated use of UAS enhances tactical options on the battlefield.
Training Structure
Training is meticulously structured to ensure soldiers are well-prepared to operate these advanced systems:
- Simulation Foundation: Soldiers initially undergo approximately 40 hours of simulation training, which helps them grasp the fundamental principles before handling physical UAS.
- Progressive Skill Acquisition: The training progresses from smaller first-person view (FPV) drones to larger systems, covering essential skills such as obstacle navigation and tactics integration with conventional military operations.
Comprehensive Familiarization for All Soldiers
In a significant departure from previous practices, the 3rd Infantry Division focuses on instilling a baseline competency in UAS operations throughout its ranks. This approach is similar to traditional rifle training, ensuring that every soldier, from maintenance personnel to infantry members, has a foundational understanding of drone operations.
Key Benefits
- Enhances Versatility and Operational Flexibility: Soldiers across various specialties can utilize UAS capabilities effectively in diverse situations, amplifying the unit’s overall effectiveness.
- Empowers All Soldiers: By equipping all soldiers with drone operation skills, the Army aims to create a more versatile force capable of quick adaptation to evolving battlefield dynamics.
This initiative not only prepares soldiers for modern challenges but signifies a strategic evolution in military doctrine concerning drone use. The Army’s focus on advanced technology integration highlights a commitment to multi-domain operations, emphasizing adaptability and proficiency in emerging technologies as critical to future success in conflicts.
For further insights into the Army’s innovative use of UAS technology, click here.