In a major military shift, the U.S. Army plans to overhaul every active-duty division by adding about 1,000 drones to each one. That’s according to a Wall Street Journal report detailing a $36 billion transformation plan driven by lessons learned from the war in Ukraine.
Known as the Army Transformation Initiative, the plan aims to enhance surveillance, logistics, and strike capabilities by utilizing low-cost drones. Instead of increasing its budget, the Army plans to redirect $36 billion over five years by cutting legacy programs, such as Humvee procurement, the M10 Booker light tank and some Apache helicopters. These cuts, focused on counterinsurgency-era systems, will help fund new unmanned systems and electronic warfare upgrades, pending congressional approval.
Drone tactics shaped by Ukraine
Army officials consulted with Ukrainian forces and contractors to study drone use in combat against Russia. According to the Journal, the Army views drones as central to future land warfare, citing their use for persistent surveillance, precision attacks and overwhelming traditional defenses through swarming tactics.
In February 2024, the Army’s 10th Mountain Division conducted exercises in Hohenfels, Germany, testing drone operations in cold weather conditions. Soldiers encountered battery failures and rotor issues that were not previously observed in drills conducted in warmer climates, such as Hawaii and Louisiana.
Expanding unmanned and electronic capabilities
In addition to deploying drones for reconnaissance and supply delivery, the Army plans to invest in counter-drone systems and electronic warfare tools. A March Department of Defense event in Germany showcased joint U.S.-German demonstrations aimed at countering drone threats with electromagnetic jamming and neutralization systems.
A key obstacle is avoiding the use of Chinese components in drone production. While Ukraine produced more than two million drones in 2024 using commercial parts, many relied on suppliers not compatible with U.S. military standards.
Branches taking different strategies
The Journal notes that while the Army plans to maintain a mix of conventional and modern capabilities, such as long-range missiles, tanks, and tilt-rotor aircraft, the Marine Corps has taken a different approach. The Marines eliminated their tank fleet in favor of mobile missile teams designed for Pacific operations.
Implementation underway
Army officials said three brigades — each typically consisting of 3,000 to 5,000 troops — have already received new drone systems. The remaining 30 brigades are expected to be equipped within two years.
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George and Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll recently briefed Vice President JD Vance on the initiative. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has endorsed the plan, which the Army says is focused on using current funds more effectively rather than increasing overall spending.
