The Navy launched its first one-way attack drone from the deck of a warship operating in the Middle East this week, marking what military officials said was a “significant milestone” in its ability to deliver a full range of unmanned combat power.
The USS Santa Barbara, an Independence-class littoral combat ship, successfully fired the Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System from its flight deck while operating in the Arabian Gulf, Navy officials confirmed Thursday.
The LUCAS drones are designed to operate autonomously and be launched using several platforms, including catapults, rocket-assisted takeoff, and mobile ground and vehicle systems, Navy officials said.
“This platform will undoubtedly enhance regional maritime security and deterrence,” Vice Adm. Curt Renshaw, commander of the Navy’s Middle East-focused 5th Fleet, said in a statement. “This achievement demonstrates the power of innovation and joint collaboration in this critical region.”
The LUCAS is based on technology reverse-engineered from a captured Iranian-designed Shahed-136 drone. The aircraft’s deployment in the Middle East is a result of Task Force Scorpion Strike, U.S. Central Command’s plan to deliver low-cost and effective drone capabilities to the troops, officials said.
“This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent,” Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, said in a statement. “Equipping our skilled warfighters faster with cutting-edge drone capabilities showcases U.S. military innovation and strength, which deters bad actors.”
• Mike Glenn can be reached at mglenn@washingtontimes.com.
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