US Army to end experimental drone battalion in Europe

Published Aug 21, 08:14 AM UTC

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The US Army is ending an experiment with a dedicated drone battalion in Europe less than a year after tasking an infantry unit to test drone operations. The battalion, charged in November 2025 with learning from drone forces including Ukraine's, will return to its airborne infantry mission after the multinational Exercise Saber Junction in August and September 2026. The decision comes as Acting Chief of Staff Gen. Christopher LaNeve issued the 'Army Azimuth' strategic roadmap, emphasizing countering enemy stand-off weapons including unmanned systems. The Pentagon has been expanding drone capabilities following a June 2025 executive order and a July 2025 memorandum from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Separately, US Central Command announced a multinational task force using one-way attack drones in air, water, and underwater operations.

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Army TimesWestern

Original language: EN

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US Army Ends Experimental Drone Battalion in Europe

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US Army Pete Hegseth US Central Command Europe Pentagon