Tampa, Florida – On December 3, 2025, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the creation of Task Force Scorpion Strike (TFSS), the U.S. military’s inaugural one-way-attack drone squadron based in the Middle East. Established four months after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed accelerated acquisition of affordable drone tech, TFSS aims to rapidly equip warfighters with low-cost, effective unmanned systems.
The task force has already assembled a squadron of Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drones, designed for autonomous operations with extensive range. LUCAS can launch via catapults, rocket-assisted takeoff, or mobile ground/vehicle systems, enhancing flexibility in contested environments. “This new task force sets the conditions for using innovation as a deterrent,” said CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper. “Equipping our skilled warfighters faster with cutting-edge drone capabilities showcases U.S. military innovation and strength, which deters bad actors.”
TFSS builds on September’s Rapid Employment Joint Task Force (REJTF), led by CENTCOM’s chief technology officer, focusing on capability, software, and tech diplomacy across service components. Led by Special Operations Command Central personnel, the initiative aligns with REJTF’s capability area, prioritizing swift deployment.
This move signals U.S. commitment to maintaining superiority in the Middle East, countering threats from Iran and its proxies amid regional tensions.
