US EOD Technicians Prepare for Next Gen Warfare Neutralizing Explosives Delivered by Drones.

U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians recently completed a joint training exercise at Fort Johnson, Louisiana, aimed at countering the growing threat of explosive drones. Army EOD technicians carried out the training from the 705th Ordnance Company (EOD) based at Fort Johnson, and EOD Airmen from the 2nd Civil Engineering Squadron, EOD Flight, stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base. The primary objective of the exercise was to equip these experts with the necessary skills to detect, disarm, and neutralize explosive drones, which have become an increasingly lethal tool in modern warfare.
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U.S. Army and Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians recently conducted joint training to counter and neutralize explosive drones. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

The use of drones in military operations has grown exponentially in recent years. Initially used for reconnaissance and surveillance, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are now frequently employed to carry explosive payloads, ranging from grenades to mortar rounds and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). These drones, due to their small size, speed, and ability to fly under radar detection, present unique challenges to traditional defense systems. Armed drones have become a formidable weapon for both state and non-state actors, capable of targeting military personnel, civilian infrastructure, and critical assets.

Recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Israel, have highlighted the escalating threat posed by armed drones. In Ukraine, both Russian and Ukrainian forces have utilized drones equipped with explosives to conduct targeted strikes, further complicating the battlefield and increasing the risks to both soldiers and civilians. These devices have been used to attack a wide range of targets, from military installations to supply lines and infrastructure. The frequency and success of these attacks have raised alarms about the potential for drones to dominate future conflicts, especially in urban and asymmetric warfare scenarios.

Similarly, Israel has faced a growing threat from armed drones, particularly in the context of ongoing regional tensions. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have had to develop advanced countermeasures to detect and neutralize drones, yet the continued use of drones as a weapon demonstrates the need for ground-based experts capable of handling these devices once they are deployed. The experience of both Ukraine and Israel underscores the need for specialized personnel trained to deal with explosive drones in a rapidly evolving tactical environment.

This is where Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams come into play. EOD technicians are highly trained specialists responsible for identifying, disarming, and safely disposing of explosive ordnance, including those delivered via drones. These experts are well-versed in the nuances of handling various types of explosives, from conventional bombs to complex IEDs, and their expertise is now crucial for neutralizing drone-based threats. The training conducted at Fort Johnson was designed to refine their skills in this specific area, ensuring that EOD teams are prepared to deal with the unique characteristics of drone-mounted explosives.

The task of neutralizing explosive drones is not without its challenges. These drones can carry a wide range of explosive payloads, each with its own set of risks. The devices may be equipped with sophisticated triggering mechanisms, such as remote detonators or sensors, making them even more difficult to disarm. As drone technology advances, so too must the techniques used to counteract them. The joint training at Fort Johnson provided EOD technicians with the opportunity to practice locating and neutralizing a variety of explosive devices, including drones carrying grenades, mortar ammunition, and land mines. Using specialized equipment such as robotic systems, sensors, and manual disarming techniques, EOD teams worked to develop effective strategies for safely handling these devices.

The importance of EOD teams in the modern battlefield cannot be overstated. Their role extends beyond simply disarming explosive devices; they are integral to ensuring the safety of military personnel and civilians alike. In the case of drones, the EOD's responsibilities include not only identifying and disarming explosive devices but also ensuring the safety of the surrounding area, minimizing further risks, and providing critical intelligence for counter-drone operations. As drone attacks become more sophisticated, the skills of EOD teams must evolve accordingly to keep pace with the growing threat.

The experiences of Ukraine and Israel have been instrumental in shaping the strategies of modern EOD teams. In Ukraine, both sides have relied heavily on drone technology, with drones increasingly being used as a delivery mechanism for explosive devices. The conflict has shown how drones can bypass traditional defenses, such as ground-based anti-aircraft systems, and deliver explosives with precision and ease. Similarly, Israel's response to drone threats has involved a combination of high-tech detection systems and ground-based disarmament teams. These lessons have been crucial in shaping U.S. military strategies, emphasizing the need for integrated, cross-service cooperation and advanced training techniques for countering explosive drones.

The training at Fort Johnson was a direct response to these evolving challenges. It provided an opportunity for Army and Air Force EOD technicians to collaborate and refine their ability to counter drone-based explosive threats. Joint training exercises like these ensure that EOD teams from different military branches are able to operate cohesively and effectively when confronted with these modern threats. Given the increasing reliance on drones in both conventional and asymmetric warfare, this type of training is becoming indispensable for maintaining operational readiness.

Looking ahead, the role of EOD teams in countering explosive drones will continue to grow in importance. As drone technology evolves, so too will the tactics and tools required to neutralize them. The U.S. military, through exercises such as the one conducted at Fort Johnson, is ensuring that its EOD teams remain at the forefront of this crucial aspect of battlefield safety. Their ability to adapt to new threats and effectively counteract the dangers posed by explosive drones is essential for maintaining the security of military operations and protecting civilians in increasingly complex conflict environments. With drones becoming an increasingly dominant weapon, the importance of EOD teams cannot be underestimated in ensuring the future safety and success of military operations across the globe.