Attack on US Forces in Jordan Used Iranian Suicide Drone

By Johnny Franks, Warrior Editorial Fellow

The recent drone strike at Tower 22, a US military base in Rukban, Jordan, indeed marks a significant development in modern warfare dynamics, particularly emphasizing the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This attack led to the tragic loss of three American service members and injured 34 others. It is the first time US forces have suffered fatal casualties in Jordan amidst the escalating tensions in the Middle East. This incident is a part of a series of attacks, with over 165 recorded against US forces in the region since October 2023.

Tower 22 serves as a support base for the nearby Al Tanf garrison and houses about 350 US soldiers and Air Force personnel. The base is strategically located in a deconfliction zone at the border area between Iraq, Syria, and Jordan, which was established in a 2016 agreement between the US and Russia. This location has made it a focal point amidst heightened regional tensions.

The drone used in this attack, originating from Syria, has been identified as a “suicide drone” designed to self-destruct upon impact. Such drones, like the Iranian “Shahed” drone, represent a shift in Iran’s capabilities in unmanned aerial warfare. They are engineered to carry high-explosive warheads and incorporate advanced guidance systems, potentially including GPS and infrared or visual sensors, to enhance accuracy. Their stealth features, like a small radar cross-section and radar-absorbing materials, make them challenging to detect and intercept. The use of these drones signifies a strategic move towards asymmetric warfare tactics and poses significant challenges to conventional defense systems.

In response to these attacks in recent months, the US military has emphasized counter-drone measures. The Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aerial Systems Office (JCO) is central to this initiative, focusing on comprehensive training for military personnel in response to UAS threats. The Joint Counter-UAS University at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, is a key institution in this regard, aiming for full operational capability in fiscal year 2024. It plays a critical role in providing counter-UAS training in various military exercises across all service branches.

The future of base defense against drone threats likely involves integrating advanced technologies such as sophisticated radar systems, AI-driven algorithms, electronic jamming tools, and direct energy weapons. This technological advancement is complemented by rigorous training of military personnel, enabling them to effectively use these systems and make timely decisions in drone-threat scenarios.

This incident at Tower 22 not only highlights a pivotal moment in military combat tactics but also underscores the evolution of defense strategies and technologies in the face of advancing drone capabilities. As these unmanned systems become more accessible, military bases worldwide must anticipate and preempt potential threats to ensure the safety of personnel and assets against sophisticated unmanned systems. To effectively counter future UAS attacks, a comprehensive strategy is required. This includes implementing advanced counter-drone technology, proactive measures to disrupt the infrastructure and operations behind drone attacks, and continuous development of innovative defense methods, particularly those utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning. Such an approach will enhance the US mission’s defensive capabilities in Syria and address the growing challenge of drone warfare in the region.