Summary
The U.S. Navy launched a new type of attack drone from a ship for the first time. The drone, called LUCAS, is designed to be a "suicide" or one-way attack vehicle, similar to drones used in conflicts like the one in Ukraine. This development is part of efforts to improve U.S. military strategies using unmanned technology in areas where Iranian drones are a threat.
Key Facts
- The drone launched is known as a LUCAS, which stands for Low-Cost Unmanned Combat Attack System.
- It was launched from the USS Santa Barbara in the Persian Gulf.
- The LUCAS drone is modeled after Iranian "suicide drones" used in Ukraine.
- This launch marks the first time the U.S. Navy has launched this kind of drone from a ship.
- The drone is part of Task Force Scorpion Strike, which focuses on developing these types of drones in the Middle East.
- LUCAS can be launched using various methods, including catapults and rocket-assisted takeoff.
- Vice Adm. Curt Renshaw highlighted the launch as an important step for affordable unmanned military capabilities.
- The U.S. military aims to use these drones to counter threats from Iranian drones in the region.
