US and NATO Soldiers Conduct Drone Combat Exercise in Poland

A recent exercise involving U.S. Army troops and their NATO allies showcased innovative tactics in drone warfare. Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment successfully engaged attacking drones by launching small interceptor drones from the back of a pickup truck. The training took place at the Nowa Dęba Training Area in Poland, following a two-week joint course that combined classroom instruction with hands-on simulations and drills.

The interceptor drones form an essential component of a mobile defense system, which utilizes electro-optical sensors and radar to identify and target incoming enemy drones. This system can be easily transported in light tactical vehicles and can be swiftly assembled by a team of just four personnel. During the exercise, soldiers effectively deployed the interceptor drones to neutralize small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and successfully recovered several of these drones using parachutes for future training exercises.

While the interceptor drones can be retrieved, they are primarily designed as expendable munitions. Their efficiency against one-way attack drones, often referred to as “suicide drones,” has already been demonstrated in conflict zones, including Ukraine. According to a service release, these drones represent cutting-edge technology currently in use, enhancing battlefield capabilities.

“It’s very lethal, very effective, but the key piece here is that it’s cost-effective,” stated Brig. Gen. Curtis King, commanding general of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command. His comments highlight the strategic advantage of incorporating these drones into military operations. The joint exercise aligns with NATO’s Operation Eastern Sentry, which aims to bolster the alliance’s eastern defenses, particularly in response to recent drone incursions in Eastern Europe.

As military strategies evolve, such collaborative exercises between the U.S. and NATO allies play a crucial role in enhancing readiness and adapting to modern warfare challenges. The successful demonstration of drone-on-drone combat reflects a significant advancement in defensive capabilities, emphasizing the importance of innovation in military operations.