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US Air Force Explores Commercial Counter-Drone Services

October 18, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Air Combat Command seeks commercial counter-drone services.
The Army is expanding its space operations branch.
F-35 conducts 'ripple' release of eight Small Diameter Bomb IIs.

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Strategic Implications

The US Air Force's consideration of commercial counter-drone services may indicate a shift towards leveraging private sector capabilities for air base defense, which could enhance security and reduce costs. The Army's expansion of its space operations branch suggests a growing recognition of the importance of space-based capabilities in modern warfare.

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What Happened

Private Sector Solutions For Air Base Defense

The US Air Force is exploring the use of commercial counter-drone services to defend its air bases, with Air Combat Command seeking defense firms capable of providing a private counter-drone service. Meanwhile, the Army is expanding its space operations branch to deepen its expertise in space-based capabilities. In a related development, the F-35 has successfully conducted a ‘ripple’ release of eight Small Diameter Bomb IIs, a key step in proving out the capability for all F-35 variants. This news was reported by Air & Space Forces Magazine.

Source | Originally Published: October 18, 2026

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