Security
Task Force Scorpion deploys LUCAS drones as Operation Epic Fury begins
Task Force Scorpion unleashes low-cost LUCAS drones in Operation Epic Fury, signaling a new era of high-volume, autonomous air strikes against Iran.
![US launches one-way-attack drone force in the Middle East: Low-Cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drones form part of a one-way attack squadron recently deployed by CENTCOM to strengthen regional security and deterrence. [Courtesy Photo]](/gc3/images/2026/03/01/54855-_79__lucas_drones-370_237.webp)
By Pishtaz |
The Pentagon has confirmed that its Low-Cost Unmanned Combat Attack System, known as LUCAS, is now active in combat operations against Iran.
The announcement came as the United States and Israeli forces commenced a joint air campaign dubbed Operation Epic Fury.
Defense officials said the first dedicated American "kamikaze" drone squadron is operationally ready after months of rapid development.
Known as Task Force Scorpion, the unit is embedded within the largest US military buildup in the Middle East since 2003.
President Donald J. Trump ordered the deployment as tensions escalated with the Islamic regime in Tehran over its nuclear program.
US officials described the new drone force as a modern weapon system designed to overwhelm air defenses quickly.
Operational readiness and expanding strikes
Earlier this week, the Pentagon said the unmanned multi-mission platform LUCAS unit is ready to participate in a potential wider conflict.
A statement from US Central Command said the drones are designed to operate autonomously across extended ranges.
Officials added that the lightweight systems can conduct strike missions, reconnaissance flights and maritime operations.
They can also be launched from maritime platforms, expanding operational flexibility across the region.
Explosions were reported in Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, Kermanshah, Lorestan, Dezful and Tabriz during the opening phase of strikes.
US officials said the campaign is expected to be far more extensive than the June 2025 strikes.
They described Operation Epic Fury as a coordinated effort to degrade critical military infrastructure.
Task Force Scorpion evolved from an experimental program into a fully operational squadron within a short period.
Defense officials said the rapid transformation underscores the Pentagon's focus on adaptable drone warfare.
Low-cost, high-volume firepower
US Central Command estimates each LUCAS unit costs roughly $35,000, significantly lower than many traditional precision munitions.
Officials argue that the affordability enables mass production and sustained operational tempo during extended campaigns.
Large numbers of drones can be launched simultaneously to saturate radar networks and defensive systems.
Military planners believe the Islamic Republic regime relies heavily on layered air defense systems as strategic lifelines.
By targeting and overwhelming those systems, LUCAS drones aim to deny them access to critical surveillance and interception capabilities.
Officials say the approach mirrors tactics used by Iranian-made Shahed-style drones, now adapted into American attack platforms.
Pentagon officials contend the new drone unit reflects evolving battlefield realities and lessons learned from recent conflicts.
They describe the system as combining low cost with precision guidance and strategic adaptability.
As Operation Epic Fury unfolds, US commanders say unmanned platforms will remain central to the campaign's opening phases.