U.S. Army Strengthens Counter-Drone Tactics to Prepare Soldiers for Future Conflicts

As drone warfare continues to evolve, the U.S. Army is ramping up its counter-drone training programs to better equip soldiers for modern battlefields. With unmanned aerial systems (UAS) being used more frequently in global conflicts, the military is prioritizing hands-on training to counter this growing threat.

At Fort Bliss, Texas, the 5th Armored Brigade has been leading a comprehensive counter-UAS (C-UAS) training initiative, focusing on real-world combat scenarios. The latest round of training was aimed at preparing the Illinois Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment, for upcoming deployments to Iraq and Syria. The exercises included a mix of live-fire drills, battlefield simulations, and technical training on advanced drone defense systems.

Col. Douglas F. Serie, commander of the 5th Armored Brigade, stressed the importance of this preparation, emphasizing that soldiers need to be well-versed in recognizing and neutralizing drone threats. “Our C-UAS training incorporates dynamic threat scenarios and multiple live-fire iterations to instill confidence in our troops,” he explained. “By ensuring soldiers are proficient in their equipment, tactics, and operational procedures, we enhance combat readiness.”

One of the key systems featured in the training was the Mobile Low, Slow Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defense System (M-LIDS). This advanced system consists of two vehicles equipped with radar, kinetic weapon systems, and electromagnetic warfare capabilities, allowing for rapid detection and engagement of hostile drones. During exercises, soldiers practiced coordinating drone detection, targeting, and engagement under realistic combat conditions.

Brandon C. Haines, a training and operations expert with PM C-UAS (Astrion), highlighted the importance of hands-on learning. “The process begins with drone detection, followed by real-time coordination among the crew, and ultimately, engaging the target,” he said. “Our training follows a structured approach—starting with classroom instruction, followed by hands-on drills, and culminating in live-fire exercises. This ensures soldiers can effectively identify and neutralize drone threats before deployment.”

To further enhance training, Observer Controller/Trainers (OC/Ts) from the 3rd Battalion, 362nd Infantry Regiment provided valuable insights based on lessons learned from past conflicts. Lt. Col. Jerome E. Hilliard, commander of the 3-362nd Infantry Regiment, emphasized the shift from traditional classroom learning to practical, real-world scenarios. “Soldiers need to experience firsthand how their roles fit into a larger counter-drone strategy,” he explained. “Using real equipment, including radars and drone swarms, helps them understand the urgency of threat identification and risk mitigation.”

Before arriving at Fort Bliss, the 2-130th Infantry Regiment also underwent counter-drone instruction at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. Staff Sgt. Joseph Watkins, an infantry OC/T, noted the benefits of hands-on practice. “We’ve spent the past year learning about drone threats, but this training allows us to put that knowledge into action,” he said. “Seeing how drones operate in real time helps us understand the effectiveness of our defense systems.”

The U.S. Army continues to integrate the latest counter-UAS technology into its training programs. Soldiers are now being trained on systems like the Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control (FAAD C2) and the Correlated Defense System of Systems Simulation, which allow for advanced threat recognition and engagement exercises. “We are constantly updating our training to reflect the latest battlefield threats,” Haines explained. “This ensures our soldiers are prepared for evolving drone warfare tactics.”

The training has been met with positive feedback from soldiers who recognize the growing danger of drone attacks. Spc. Jack Gregory, an infantryman with Alpha Company, 2-130th Infantry Regiment, noted the significance of learning counter-drone tactics. “Drone warfare is one of the biggest concerns for soldiers today,” he said. “Understanding how M-LIDS integrates with base defense and learning how to neutralize drone threats in real-time scenarios boosts our confidence and readiness.”

As drone threats continue to evolve, the U.S. Army remains committed to adapting its training programs. Col. Serie emphasized the importance of collaboration between National Guard, Reserve, and Active-Duty units in counter-UAS training. “Our National Guard and Reserve partners face different constraints than their Active-Duty counterparts, so joint training is essential,” he said. “Combat readiness and effectiveness come from realistic training and strong partnerships across all components.”

With deployment approaching, the 2-130th Infantry Regiment’s leadership acknowledges the critical importance of counter-drone preparedness. “Recent drone attacks reinforce why this training is vital,” said Lt. Col. Edward Worman, the battalion’s commander. “By mastering these counter-drone techniques, we enhance force protection, reduce risks, and ensure mission success.”

As warfare continues to evolve, the U.S. Army’s focus on counter-drone tactics ensures its soldiers remain ready to confront the growing threat of unmanned aerial systems on the battlefield.