US Military News – 101st Air Assault Revolutionizes Drone Warfare with Additive Manufacturing
Across Europe, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) is sharpening its edge. This is Operation Black Widow, a critical training exercise designed to integrate the latest technology with the lethal skills of the American Soldier. Specifically, we’re with the U.S. Army Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, Task Force Iron.
The focus here is on unmanned aerial systems (UAS)—or drones—and their integration into ground combat. The innovation on display is both rapid and remarkable. Soldiers are utilizing an Army-issued C-100 drone, but with a crucial enhancement: a 3D-printed hardpoint and pylon dropper attachment.
This simple but ingenious modification allows the standard surveillance drone to transition into a precise, tactical weapon system, capable of delivering live munitions onto a target. It’s a clear example of Soldiers in the field driving additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping to solve complex tactical challenges.
The training, conducted between August 13th and 14th, 2025, is about mastery and precision. The objective is to rehearse the entire kill chain, from target identification and acquiring the drone to the final, deliberate munition release.
Watch as the Task Force Iron crews conduct live UAS munition drops. Every flight, every drop, is a step forward in perfecting this capability. This level of autonomy and organic firepower gives the maneuver commander a decisive advantage, ensuring they can strike targets accurately and swiftly without relying on traditional air assets.
This training isn’t just a demonstration; it’s a vital evolution in how the 101st Airborne fights. In the modern operational environment, success hinges on adapting quickly, decentralizing capabilities, and empowering small units with technological superiority.
The ability to successfully deploy ordnance from an easily field-modified drone provides Task Force Iron with a potent and low-signature strike capability. It enhances their survivability and lethality in high-intensity conflict, reinforcing the fact that American ingenuity remains at the forefront of military preparedness. #technology #military #usarmy
Operation Black Widow successfully demonstrates the marriage of soldier expertise and cutting-edge, accessible technology. The 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, continues to set the standard for readiness and rapid adaptation, ensuring the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) remains ready to fight and win, anywhere in the world.
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Credit to : Video by Sgt. Marquis McCants
1st Armored Division
Credit to : US Military Channel