The MQ-9 Reaper drone has defined US unmanned warfare operations for the past two decades. The military is now preparing to shift toward a different model, according to reports, moving away from building unmanned aircraft designed to survive multiple engagements in favor of cheaper systems fielded in greater numbers.
This new approach reflects changing military doctrine on unmanned aircraft operations. Rather than preserving expensive systems by minimizing losses, the strategy emphasizes deploying sufficient quantities of less costly drones that operational losses no longer significantly impact overall force capability.
The War Zone reported this month that senior military officials have begun signaling this strategic pivot. The shift marks a significant departure from the operational principles that have guided two decades of US drone warfare.
