US Army Trials Autonomous Bombing With Small Drone in Germany
The US Army has tested an autonomous bombing operation using a small unmanned aerial system at the Grafenwoehr Training Area in Bavaria, Germany.
The event involved a Skydio X10D platform equipped with the “Audible” explosives dropper, developed by the service’s Combat Capabilities Development Command.
During strike simulations, troops deployed a live M67 grenade, a spherical steel munition with a pyrotechnic delay fuse, and fragmentation effect.
Teams set up counter-UAS solutions to minimize disruption throughout the activity, while flight protocols were approved by the German Ministry of Defence to decrease risks.
Experts from the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) led the experiment. Participants involved members of the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine, the 1st Army, and the Grafenwoehr-based 173rd Airborne Brigade and 18th Military Police Brigade.
‘Revolutionary’ Solution
The Grafenwoehr live-drop trial supports US Army Europe and Africa’s broader effort to enhance the readiness of American troops, NATO allies, and partners in the region in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to the army, the choice of ordnance and application of the Audible on the proving ground reflects what American warfighters would carry in combat while incorporating a 3D-printable dropper device in the field, enhancing close-air support for dismounted companies or platoons on future missions.
Results from the recent demonstration will inform further design changes to the UAS bomber and expand the utility of the homegrown Audible technology in training across the area of responsibility and for US Forces Command.
Meanwhile, the service will continue to evaluate the concept through the summer in support of unmanned cargo transport development.
“This is revolutionary; Soldiers will utilize this capability in the fight beautifully,” said David Oeschger, deputy operations chief for 7ATC.
