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Tag: unmanned systems

July 9, 2026

The Human Domain in an Autonomous Age

In April 2026, Ukrainian forces reportedly seized a Russian position using only unmanned systems—ground robots and aerial drones—with no infantry involvement. The operation, resulting in the surrender of defending forces without friendly casualties, was described as a glimpse of the future of warfare. It also raises a more enduring question: If machines can increasingly conduct the most dangerous aspects of combat, what ultimately determines whether those actions produce meaningful outcomes?

Nov. 20, 2025

Loitering Munitions in Modern Combat: Addressing Tactical Gaps at the Small Unit Level

In the dynamic landscape of modern warfare, the bedrock of U.S. special operations forces (SOF) has always been its unparalleled adaptability. Yet, as the character of conflict undergoes a quiet but profound revolution, there exists a critical vulnerability within the tactical small unit. The current gap within SOF units is the lack of an organic and expeditious package capable of conducting precision strikes and providing direct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Loitering munitions can address this gap.

Nov. 18, 2025

Special Warfare Drone Networks for the Modern Battlefield

As the U.S. military evolves to meet the complexities of modern warfare, the looming threats of conflict can sometimes overshadow the essential preparations needed to address future challenges. One critical requirement for the modern soldier is connectivity, whether for an infantryman, a pilot, or an intelligence analyst. The question then arises: How can U.S. forces maintain connectivity in denied, degraded, or disrupted environments during large-scale combat operations (LSCO)? This article explores how an unmanned system (UxS) network can provide reliable connectivity to the forward line of own troops (FLOT) in combat scenarios.

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