US launches multinational attack drone task force

On Thursday, US Central Command revealed the formation of a multinational attack drone task force, naming it Task Force Falcon Strike. This new unit will utilize one-way attack drones, with personnel from US military support staff and regional allies operating them, according to a Centcom statement. The announcement follows Centcom's establishment of the US military's inaugural attack drone squadron in the Middle East, Task Force Scorpion Strike.

Centcom chief Admiral Brad Cooper stated that Task Force Falcon Strike will build upon the success of Scorpion Strike, citing the impressive innovation among regional allies and partners. The integration and deployment of these new capabilities together will enable rapid realization of the potential developments ahead, Cooper added.

Scorpion Strike was integrated into offensive operations during the Iran war. In July, the US disclosed its first one-way sea drone strike on an Iranian target. Centcom is currently consulting with regional partners to enhance the task force's capabilities with the goal of bolstering attack drone capabilities across the Middle East.

Admiral Cooper emphasized the strength that lies in the collective partnerships and friendships the US has in the region, emphasizing the importance of integrating and deploying new capabilities together.

The Middle East has seen drones become a significant battlefield tool, and the US has been actively working to develop its capabilities in this area. In the previous year, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth announced efforts to streamline the process for the US military to acquire and develop small drones.