U.S. Central Command announced Wednesday that it has established Task Force Scorpion Strike to oversee the military’s first operational squadron of one-way attack drones in the Middle East. The command confirmed that Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS) aircraft are already positioned in the region and described them as long-range, autonomous platforms capable of launches from catapults, vehicle-mounted systems and rocket-assisted mechanisms.

“This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent,” Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, said. “Equipping our skilled warfighters faster with cutting-edge drone capabilities showcases U.S. military innovation and strength, which deters bad actors.”

The initiative follows a direction earlier this year to accelerat

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