US Military Simulates Ukraine-Like Combat to Advance Tactical Drone Tech
The US Department of Defense has tested tactical unmanned aerial systems in domestic environments designed to replicate combat conditions in Ukraine.
Led by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the project aims to accelerate the deployment of next-generation systems capable of maintaining operability under electronic warfare threats, according to Defense News.
The initiative is intended to bypass the logistical and regulatory hurdles that prevent smaller defense firms from testing systems in actual conflict zones like Ukraine, where access typically requires significant funding and government approvals.
While some larger companies have been able to run trials in the region, the DIU ultimately scrapped plans to conduct tests in Ukraine, citing political sensitivities and regulatory restrictions under the new Trump administration.
Simulations in Alaska
The DIU selected remote areas in Alaska, including land near Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, as proving grounds for the initiative, given their open terrain, low-traffic airspace, minimal signal interference, and extended daylight hours.
In June, five companies participated in a test simulating electronic warfare attacks. Their systems were evaluated for their ability to maintain control and navigation under these conditions. Most had never flown outside laboratory settings, and many initially failed — an expected outcome, officials said.
The US Army’s 11th Airborne Division, which provided the electronic warfare effects, faced challenges of its own: many of its materials are more than two decades old and were originally developed for Iraq and Afghanistan operations in the 2000s.
Subsequent tests showed improved results as teams shifted focus to other jamming techniques, such as GNSS-based attacks, where the legacy equipment performed slightly better.
Testing ‘Under Pressure’ Critical
Throughout the effort, officials highlighted that the US military lacks modern electronic warfare systems necessary for realistic testing and development of autonomous capabilities against evolving threats.
Lt. Col. Scott Smith, director of non-lethal effects for the 11th Airborne Division, emphasized the importance of the initiative and the operational insights it provides.
“This kind of live testing helps us figure out what works, troubleshoot under pressure, and make the case for more investment,” he stated.
