The United States Army continues to demonstrate its commitment to maintaining a decisive edge on the modern battlefield by putting new technology directly in the hands of soldiers.
Recently, at Fort Hood’s eastern training area, members of the Army’s 1st Cavalry Division made history as they became the first to live-fire the Switchblade 600 Loitering Munition System on the installation.
This event marks a significant milestone not only for the unit but also for the Army’s ongoing push to modernize armored formations and ensure American soldiers remain well-equipped for the challenges ahead.
This groundbreaking trial was conducted by soldiers from the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) during an exercise held in September.
The test was part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative, which is specifically aimed at modernizing how armored units train and fight in preparation for future conflicts. By embracing cutting-edge technology, the Army is ensuring its armored forces are not only ready to meet current threats, but are also prepared for the rapidly evolving nature of warfare.
The Switchblade 600, produced by Aerovironment, is not entirely new to the Army. Several units have already put the system through its paces, but the 2nd ABCT is among the first armored teams to utilize this particular tube-launched, unmanned aircraft system in a live-fire environment.
This marks a critical step in integrating advanced weapons into the day-to-day training and operations of America’s armored soldiers.
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Captain Jeffrey Weller, commander of the Multi-Functional Reconnaissance Troop, 2nd ABCT, emphasized the importance of this new system in a recent Army release.
He explained, “The Switchblade enables the brigade to engage targets with precision between five and 15 kilometers in front of our forward line of troops, extending our reach and lethality. You can feel the excitement in the air.” This extension of reach is no small feat, especially when considering the unpredictable and increasingly dangerous nature of modern battlefields.
Image Credit: DoW
The Switchblade 600 is a sophisticated piece of technology. Weighing in at 75 pounds and stretching approximately five feet in length, the system is equipped with a Javelin multipurpose warhead.
It boasts a range of up to 27 miles and can remain airborne for around 40 minutes, all while carrying an explosive payload of five pounds.
After being launched, it operates much like a drone, allowing its operator to use onboard cameras to precisely identify and engage targets at a safe distance. This level of control means American soldiers can strike with accuracy while remaining out of harm’s way.
For soldiers like Specialist Drake Cross, a Switchblade operator with experience piloting RQ-7 Shadow and RQ-28 Quadcopter drones, the technology represents a leap forward in both capability and survivability.
“Everything else I’ve flown has been for surveillance and target acquisition,” Cross shared.
“This is the first one where I can actually deliver a round. It’s exciting because it saves soldiers’ lives by hitting targets without putting us in danger.” His words highlight a critical advantage: these advancements are not just about increased firepower but are fundamentally about protecting American lives.
Before putting the system to the test in a live-fire scenario, Cross and his fellow operators completed an intensive five-day training course alongside Aerovironment instructors.
Because of his prior experience with other drone platforms, Cross said learning to operate the Switchblade 600 came naturally. He noted, “Once you identify and lock onto a target, you can adjust right up until impact to make sure you’re hitting what you want.” This level of control and adaptability further demonstrates how the system supports both precision and effectiveness on the battlefield.
Looking ahead, the Army is not stopping at a single test. Soldiers are scheduled to receive additional training with the Switchblade 600 during an upcoming rotation at Fort Irwin’s National Training Center in California.
Captain Weller pointed out that this ongoing practice is essential for adapting to an ever-changing battlefield.
“A huge thing the Army has seen across multiple battlefields, whether in Ukraine or elsewhere, is the rapid modernization and high usage of drones,” he said. “The Army has to modernize to keep pace. Seeing systems like the Switchblade in action shows us the future of how our formations will fight.”
Therefore, as the Army continues its modernization efforts, integrating new technology such as the Switchblade 600 is not only a demonstration of American innovation but also a strong signal that our military remains vigilant, proactive, and prepared.
By focusing on both increased lethality and enhanced protection for soldiers, the United States Army is ensuring its forces remain second to none in an unpredictable world.
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