The US Department of Defense has formally launched the second phase of its high-profile Replicator program, now focusing on countering the growing threats posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
In a memo released Monday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin directed Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady to develop a comprehensive plan for the mass production and deployment of cost-effective counter-drone solutions.
Austin wants to secure funding for the initiative in fiscal year 2026, with a commitment to deliver the needed c-UAS systems within 24 months of the budget’s passage.
According to him, the Replicator 2 will help tackle the challenges associated with neutralizing drone threats, especially those that come in swarms or at high speeds.
“I am confident the Replicator initiative will complement and advance the significant [C-UAS] work already underway in the DoD,” Austin stated.
The Defense Innovation Unit will lead the Replicator 2 in collaboration with various offices.
Replicator 1
In August 2023, the Pentagon launched the first phase of the Replicator program, aiming to field thousands of low-cost drones within the next two years.
In just nine months, a contract was awarded to AeroVironment for the supply of Switchblade 600 loitering munitions as part of the initiative.
According to the DoD, the program is a “critical step in delivering the capabilities we need, at the scale and speed we need, to continue securing a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Washington views China as the biggest threat in the region and seeks to deter its aggressive behavior by fielding thousands of drones under Replicator 1.
Growing Drone Threats
The shift in focus to C-UAS solutions comes as the US confronts escalating drone threats from adversaries.
Earlier this year, a drone attack on a US military base in Jordan killed three American troops and wounded several others.
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have also intensified drone attacks against cargo vessels in the Red Sea, many of which have been intercepted by US air defense systems.
The proliferation of drones in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict further underscores the urgent need to invest in C-UAS solutions to secure a tactical advantage in future conflicts.