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23m ago

Pentagon Stands Up Army-Led Counter-Drone Task Force as Rapid Fielding Accelerates

New moves point to near-term capability rather than process reform.

CoAspire's RAACM on Display in April 2025 at the Sea Air Space Symposium in Washington, D.C. Photo: CoAspire
The MQ-25 Stingray test asset, T-1, conducts deck handling maneuvers on Dec. 12, 2021 while underway aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77), the first testing of the MQ-25 model at sea. (Photo: U.S. Navy)
Epirus' trailer-mounted Leonidas high-power microwave counter-drone system. Photo: Epirus
Oshkosk Corp.'s ROGUE Fires platform in production for the Marine Corps. Forterra provides a self-driving solution for the system. Photo: U.S. Defense Department

Overview

  • The Defense Department is establishing Joint Interagency Task Force 401, led by the Army and reporting to the deputy defense secretary, to centralize counter‑UAS oversight and speed delivery of capabilities.
  • A Defense Innovation Unit official said the Replicator Phase 1 effort has seen delivery of hundreds of AeroVironment Switchblade loitering munitions to a customer that has already fielded the systems.
  • The Navy’s Air Boss confirmed MQ‑25 flight testing in 2025 with aircraft carrier integration slated for 2026.
  • Space Force leaders highlighted active exploration of very low Earth orbit and said about 150 companies have expressed interest in the RG‑XX effort seeking a commercial successor to GSSAP as the service deepens engagement with venture investors.
  • An Office of Inspector General report issued Aug. 7 did not substantiate allegations that the National Nuclear Security Administration failed to follow export control regulations.