General James Rainey, the Commanding General of Army Futures Command, is shaping the future of warfare with insights on drone and AI integration. He discusses how drone warfare in Ukraine is influencing military strategy and the necessity for adaptability over mere prediction. Rainey emphasizes the strategic transformations within the Army and the importance of collaboration with tech industries. He also touches on the ethical implications of modern weaponry and the significance of lifelong learning in military leadership.
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insights INSIGHT
Adaptability Over Prediction
Future warfare will be defined by adaptability rather than prediction.
Success depends on adaptive soldiers, formations, and organizations constantly evolving.
insights INSIGHT
Ukraine Conflict Reveals UAV Impact
The Ukraine conflict shows the massive use of UAVs and civilian tech mobilization.
However, it lacks maneuver warfare and air power features typical of the US Joint Force.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Attack as Best Defense Strategy
Offense is the best defense against drone threats through attacking supply chains and ground control stations.
The Army must improve layered protection integrating all tools to defend formations effectively.
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General James Rainey leads the U.S. Army’s effort to prepare for the next war. As the Commanding General of Army Futures Command, he’s focused on adapting to a battlefield shaped by drones, autonomy, and AI.
In this conversation, he breaks down how drone warfare in Ukraine is reshaping military thinking, why adaptability—not prediction—is the key to readiness, and how the Army is transforming its doctrine, org charts, and tech stack.
We also cover advanced weapons systems, IVAS, industrial base mobilization, and why the Army must stay focused on lethality above all else. If you want a clear-eyed view of how military transformation actually happens, start here.
The Drone Ultimatum 
