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U.S. Army to Acquire Over One Million Drones as Expendable Ammunition to Build Resilient Supply Chain
The U.S. Army has announced plans to purchase at least 1 million drones over the next two to three years, treating these drones as expendable “ammunition.” This strategic move comes as part of efforts to build a resilient and non-Chinese supply chain, drawing valuable lessons from the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict.
The decision reflects a significant shift in modern warfare tactics, emphasizing the mass deployment of drones to maintain battlefield superiority. By considering drones as ammunition, the Army aims to ensure sustained operational capability through rapid replacement rather than relying on limited and expensive assets.
Future procurement plans suggest potential purchases of several millions of drones annually after the initial phase, highlighting the scale and importance of this initiative. The focus on reducing dependency on Chinese technology sources marks a critical step toward securing national defense manufacturing and supply networks.
This approach showcases how modern military forces are adapting to technological advancements and geopolitical realities. With lessons learned from recent conflicts, the U.S. Army is positioning itself to effectively manage supply chain vulnerabilities while maximizing drone-based tactical advantages.
The impact of this drone acquisition will likely influence global defense strategies and stimulate developments in drone technology and manufacturing, reinforcing the importance of autonomous systems in future combat scenarios.