Statecraft
How to Produce a Kamikaze Drone
Nov 21, 2024
Chris Anderson, former DoD program manager and COO at Troika Solutions, shares his insights on the evolution of military drone technology, especially the Switchblade kamikaze drone. He discusses the birth of the U.S. Army Asymmetric Warfare Group and the challenges faced in Iraq and Afghanistan. The conversation highlights the differences in drone use between Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific, and critiques the military's cautious approach to adopting risky technologies, underscoring the need for flexible strategies in asymmetric warfare.
44:58
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The establishment of the Asymmetric Warfare Group (AWG) revolutionized military procurement by enabling rapid adaptation to evolving battlefield challenges.
- The effectiveness of the Switchblade drone in Ukraine highlights the importance of innovation and precision in modern military strategy against asymmetric threats.
Deep dives
Development of the Switchblade Kamikaze Drone
The Switchblade drone, also known as a loitering munition, represents a significant evolution in battlefield technology as the first tactical-level drone deployed by the U.S. military. Unlike traditional drones, the Switchblade is designed for one-way missions where it loiters over a target area before being directed to strike. This system allows soldiers to deploy precise, one-time attacks without needing to request fire clearance, streamlining the military response during combat. Chris Anderson emphasizes that this drone serves to adapt to rapidly changing battlefield conditions, showcasing the U.S. military's focus on innovation in response to asymmetric threats.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
