CENTCOM launches multinational attack drone task force

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced the launch of Task Force Falcon Strike, the first multinational and multi-domain unit specifically dedicated to the employment of attack drones. Led by Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT), the unit will integrate personnel from the United States and regional partner nations to operate unmanned systems across air, sea, and sub-surface environments.

The initiative focuses heavily on one-way attack drones, also known as kamikaze drones, which are designed to strike targets without returning to their origin. This strategy aims to utilize relatively low-cost, high-volume unmanned systems as an alternative or supplement to expensive conventional missiles and platforms.

Falcon Strike builds upon the operational foundation of Task Force Scorpion Strike, a specialized unit established nine months ago. Scorpion Strike achieved several milestones, including the first launch of an aerial attack drone from a U.S. Navy vessel and the use of unmanned maritime vessels in regional operations. CENTCOM has begun formal invitation processes for regional allies to join the new task force to enhance integrated deterrence capabilities in the Middle East.