U.S. Central Command Establishes New Drone Task Force

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has formed a new task force featuring its first dedicated squadron of one-way attack drones. The unit, called Task Force 99, will focus on testing and integrating new technologies like drones and artificial intelligence. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper announced the initiative. "This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent," he said. One-way attack drones, also known as "kamikaze" drones, are designed to crash into their targets. They are typically smaller, cheaper, and harder to detect than traditional aircraft. The task force aims to rapidly experiment with commercial and military technology. Its goal is to improve surveillance and deter potential adversaries across the Middle East and Central Asia.