US Army Learning Lessons from Ukraine

by Benjamin Cook

Hello everybody!

The following was prepared by Benjamin - who is also running the UAO Charity, in regards of which there are great news.

Thanks to your contributions, they’re just US$50 short of the US$2,500 goal, and have already sent the first US$2,200 to Ukraine.

Special thanks!

***

***

The U.S. Army's Advanced UAV Strategies: Lessons Learned From Ukraine

The U.S. Army is heavily investing in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to maintain its tactical edge and adapt to the evolving nature of warfare. This approach includes the development of versatile and advanced UAV platforms that cater to various missions, ranging from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to direct attack capabilities. The Army's strategic focus extends across multiple echelons, ensuring that UAS are integrated into every level of the battlefield, from platoons to corps.

Key Systems and Programs

One of the flagship programs is the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (FTUAS), designed to replace the Shadow system with enhanced capabilities such as vertical takeoff and modular open systems. This program is pivotal in providing flexible and resilient UAS that can adapt to different operational needs. Complementing FTUAS are the Launched Effects (LE) systems, which include short, medium, and long-range drones equipped with diverse effects, from kinetic to electronic warfare. (LE is Army shorthand for something you launch and don’t expect to get back! One way flight.) The Altius 700, for instance, is a drone that can be launched from a Black Hawk helicopter, demonstrating its ability to enhance battlefield awareness and target engagement in contested environments.

Integration and Experimentation

The Army's approach to UAS development is marked by experimentation and rapid prototyping. Soldiers play an active role in testing these new systems, providing critical feedback that informs future procurement and operational requirements. This hands-on involvement ensures that the technologies developed meet the practical needs of soldiers in real-world conditions. The Army is placing multiple bets on different technologies to determine the most effective solutions, reflecting a commitment to continuous transformation.

Recognizing the increasing demand for rapid prototyping and adaptability, the Army plans to embed 3D printers at the company level. This initiative underscores the Army's understanding of the necessity for real-time prototyping and customization of UAV components directly on the battlefield. By enabling rapid manufacturing of parts and modifications, the Army enhances its ability to respond swiftly to evolving operational challenges.

3D Printers Producing UAVs for Ukraine (Telegram Link): https://t.me/wild_hornets/1872

Technological Advancements and Challenges

The rapid pace of technological advancements in UAS presents both opportunities and challenges for the Army. On one hand, the ability to quickly adapt acquisition and contracting processes has allowed for the accelerated deployment of cutting-edge UAS technologies. On the other hand, the increasing sophistication of enemy UAS capabilities, particularly in electronic warfare environments like those seen in Ukraine, necessitates continuous adaptation. The Army is keenly aware of the need to maintain effectiveness in these contested environments and is investing in counter-UAS measures and electronic warfare resilience. The DoD seems keenly aware that the modern battlefield is not “red tape” friendly. Nor does it care for $250,000++ elegant precision if it can’t be deployed on request. It favors bulk, fast, close enough.

Story Time:  When I ran a gun store I had occasion to work on several German made WWII era guns. On every piece of a German gun was a maker's mark stamped into the metal. From this mark I could look up not just the factory that produced the gun, but also the week it was made. With this precision accountability method the Germans were producing about 10,000 guns a month.  In the USA?  60,000 guns a month. Sure, the German Luger and P-38 are legendary. But is that the point on the battlefield? Or is bulk, fast, close enough going to get the job done?

Lessons from Global Conflicts

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has provided valuable operational insights into the use of UAS in modern warfare. The importance of ubiquitous sensing, effective counter-UAS measures, and the integration of electronic warfare has been underscored by this conflict. The Army is learning from these lessons to ensure that its investments in UAS and related technologies are aligned with real-world battlefield needs. The conflict has also highlighted the importance of rapid adaptation and innovation, leading to changes in the Army's culture and approach to acquiring new technologies.

Acquisition and Industry Collaboration

The U.S. Army's newly contracted strong industrial base is a critical asset in its UAS development efforts. However, the Army remains open to innovation from allied nations, recognizing the relatively low barrier to entry for UAS technology. This openness has led to a surge in new companies and innovations, contributing to the rapid advancement of UAS capabilities. The Army's success in fast-tracking UAS programs has started to change the culture within the organization, promoting a faster and more adaptive approach to technology acquisition.  If this is true, it is an amazing culture shift. Only time will tell.

Future Prospects and Strategic Importance

Looking ahead, the Army is committed to ensuring that its soldiers are equipped with the most advanced UAS capabilities available. This commitment is driven by the recognition that UAS technology will play a critical role in future conflicts, where rapid adaptation and technological superiority will be key determinants of success. The Army's focus on integrating UAS at every echelon, combined with its emphasis on continuous transformation, positions it well to maintain its technological edge in an increasingly complex and contested global environment.

The Launched Effects systems and the FTUAS program are prime examples of the Army's forward-looking approach to UAS development. These programs not only enhance the Army's ability to detect and engage threats but also ensure that soldiers have the tools they need to succeed in a wide range of operational scenarios. As the Army continues to refine its UAS capabilities, it is clear that these systems will be at the forefront of modern warfare, providing the U.S. military with a decisive advantage on the battlefield.

In conclusion, the U.S. Army's investment in UAS is driven by a strategic vision to maintain dominance in future conflicts, informed by critical lessons from Ukraine's battlefield experience. The Army is focusing on continuous innovation, rapid prototyping—including embedding 3D printers at the company level—and integrating real-world insights from global conflicts to ensure that its UAS capabilities are not only advanced but also highly adaptable to modern combat scenarios. As warfare evolves, these efforts will be essential for securing the Army's leadership in military technology.

Benjamin Cook

About Me: With a background in International Security and Conflict Studies, I am deeply involved in analyzing modern warfare, particularly focusing on the intersection of AI, drone technology, and military strategy. My work spans both academic and real-world applications, drawing insights from global conflicts like the war in Ukraine. As an AI consultant and researcher, I strive to offer nuanced perspectives on how emerging technologies are reshaping global security.

Join My Substack: Subscribe to my Substack for in-depth analysis, expert insights, and thought-provoking content on the latest in AI, military technology, and global security trends. Don't miss out on exclusive articles and discussions that delve into the future of warfare and beyond. Join the conversation today!