US Army drone school leaders say they don't want to buy gear that can't be easily upgraded
Business Insider
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The US Army’s new drone training program emphasizes the need for modular, adaptable gear that can evolve alongside rapidly changing battlefields. Leaders in the Unmanned Advanced Lethality Course stress the importance of working with industry partners who can create systems capable of real-time upgrades and multiple uses. They warn that companies failing to meet these standards risk being sidelined as the Army prioritizes flexibility and adaptability in its equipment.
Modularity is key, allowing soldiers to swap or upgrade parts without overhauling entire systems. This approach gives troops greater freedom to customize weapons for different missions, whether arming drones or conducting surveillance. Defense firms are increasingly designing tools compatible with various drone types, such as a single arming tool that works across platforms, rather than requiring separate equipment for each.
The shift toward adaptable gear has been accelerated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has pushed weapons makers to redesign their systems for quick updates based on soldier feedback and battlefield needs. Companies like Milrem Robotics and Granta Autonomy are focusing on software-driven solutions that enable frequent upgrades without lengthy development cycles. This real-time collaboration between industry and the military is critical to staying relevant in the fast-paced drone warfare landscape.
For businesses, this means prioritizing innovation and agility to meet the Army’s demands. Firms that actively engage with soldiers, listen to their needs, and iterate quickly are gaining a competitive edge. The era of rigid, single-use systems is fading as modular designs become essential for success in modern defense contracting. This trend underscores the importance of adaptability not just on the battlefield but also in business strategy.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/23/2026