DoD Replicator Seeks to Counter China With AI-Empowered Drone Swarms

By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow

The Pentagon is undertaking a transformative initiative aimed at countering the numerical advantage of China’s People’s Liberation Army by mass-producing low-cost, AI-driven kamikaze drones. This move represents a significant pivot in the U.S. military’s approach to warfare, leveraging advanced technologies to create a formidable autonomous arsenal.

In August 2023, the Defense Department unveiled Replicator, targeting the deployment of thousands of all-domain, attritable autonomous (ADA2) systems. These systems include self-piloting ships, large robotic aircraft, and swarms of kamikaze drones, designed to be expendable yet effective in overwhelming adversary forces. This show a departure from the traditionally over-engineered and labor-intensive drones like the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper, which have been staples of U.S. military operations for over two decades.

The new drone program, spearheaded by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Air Force Armament Directorate, involves nontraditional weapons manufacturers such as Anduril Industries, Integrated Solutions for Systems, Leidos Dynetics, and Zone 5 Technologies. These companies were selected from over 100 applicants to develop the Enterprise Test Vehicle (ETV) – a drone capable of flying over 500 miles and delivering kinetic payloads.

The Pentagon’s focus on low-cost, modular drones is a direct response to the strategic challenges posed by China. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks emphasized that Replicator aims to counter China’s mass advantage. The initiative draws lessons from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where autonomous drones have played a crucial role in countering Russian military forces. For instance, Ukraine’s use of up to 10,000 low-cost drones per month has been pivotal in its defense strategy, showcasing the potential of such systems in large-scale conflicts.

One of the most significant advantages of the Replicator drones is their ability to operate in swarms. Swarm tactics involve deploying large numbers of drones that can communicate and coordinate with each other. This capability allows them to overwhelm enemy defenses, execute complex maneuvers, and adapt to changing battlefield conditions. The swarm intelligence enables these drones to perform tasks such as area denial, reconnaissance, and direct attacks with unprecedented efficiency.

Mr. Young Bang, Principal Deputy, Asst. Sec. of the Army, Acquisition, Logistics & Technology talks to Warrior