US Central Command (CENTCOM) has unveiled a new drone-focused military initiative in West Asia, marking the United States' first operational deployment of a one-way-attack drone squadron in the region.

The announcement, made on December 3, reflects a broader push to accelerate unmanned combat capabilities across the US military.

Task Force Scorpion Strike (TFSS), the unit at the heart of this effort, was launched four months after Secretary of War Pete Hegseth directed the expedited development and deployment of low-cost, combat-ready drone technologies.

According to CENTCOM, TFSS aims to quickly integrate affordable, effective drone systems into the field, enhancing the operational reach of US forces.

https://t.co/e7wPknswla

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 3, 2025

LUCAS drones, autonomous deployment capabilities

The task force has already deployed a squadron of Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drones in West Asia.

These systems are engineered for autonomous operation and can be launched using a variety of mechanisms, including catapults, rocket-assisted takeoff, and mobile ground or vehicle-based systems.

“This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Equipping our skilled warfighters faster with cutting-edge drone capabilities showcases US military innovation and strength, which deters bad actors.”

Read more: US to boost drone production to 1Mln to meet future war demand: Report

Rapid tech integration through REJTF

The initiative follows CENTCOM’s earlier September launch of the Rapid Employment Joint Task Force (REJTF), a program led by its chief technology officer to fast-track deployment of emerging military capabilities.

REJTF serves as a coordinating body across the various branches of the US military, focusing on capability development, software, and what CENTCOM terms “tech diplomacy".

TFSS’ current activities fall under the REJTF’s capability mandate and are being led by personnel from the US Special Operations Command Central. The creation of a drone-dedicated task force also aligns with the United States' broader military posture in West Asia, where advanced surveillance and combat technologies are increasingly prioritized.

Read more: US, partners to patrol West Asian waters with 100-strong sea drone fleet

Shifting strategy toward low-cost warfare tools

The deployment of one-way-attack drones reflects a shift toward lower-cost, rapid-response weaponry in US military planning. CENTCOM’s investment in autonomous and semi-autonomous systems points to an evolving doctrine that emphasizes technological edge and battlefield flexibility, particularly in contested operational environments.

While US officials frame the move as a step toward deterrence and innovation, the growing presence of advanced unmanned systems in West Asia also signals Washington’s continued reliance on high-tech warfare as a means of projecting power across the region.

Increase in US military presence in West Asia

The US has increased its aerial and naval assets in West Asia, as well as roughly 30,000 troops stationed in over a dozen major bases. 

The Pentagon has stationed additional warplanes, missile systems, and carrier strike groups over the past year in what Washington claims to be a pretext to deterrence and rapid response. 

The launch of such an initiative as TFSS marks a tactical shift and strategic evolution in US military doctrine in West Asia, moving towards a lower-cost, high-tech warfare that minimizes the risk to military personnel's lives by utilizing a remote technological force.