US Army Plans Nearly $1 Billion for Small Counter-Drone Tech in FY27 Budget

The US Army has requested nearly $1 billion in procurement funding for small counter-unmanned aerial system (c-UAS) technologies in its Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal. This $994 million allocation, drawn entirely from discretionary funding, represents a significant increase compared to the enacted FY26 budget. The funds support a "systems of systems" architecture designed to create an interoperable fire control network comprising sensors, effectors, and electronic warfare components. Major expenditures include $414 million for operational capabilities like mobile platforms and sensors, and $165 million for fixed site defense, addressing growing concerns over base security. Additionally, $132 million is designated for effectors, including the procurement of 800 kinetic systems and Next Generation c-UAS Missiles manufactured by Aerovironment. The budget also allocates resources for individual soldier-level protection, directed energy weapons such as Enduring High Energy Laser systems, and expeditionary launchers. This investment highlights the military's prioritization of defending against Group 1 and Group 2 drone threats through both kinetic and non-kinetic means, aiming to enhance protection for deployed forces and domestic installations alike.