Pentagon Launches Replicator 2 to Counter Drone Threats

The initiative aims to enhance defenses against small drones at critical U.S. installations worldwide within two years.

The Replicator 2 initiative will focus on developing systems to detect, track, and neutralize small drones.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that the new phase will prioritize protecting U.S. military bases and critical assets globally.
The move follows a series of drone attacks on U.S. bases in the Middle East, with recent incidents in Syria and Jordan.
The Pentagon will request funding for Replicator 2 in the fiscal 2026 budget, with expected deployment within 24 months of approval.
Replicator 2 will build on existing counter-drone efforts, aiming to overcome challenges in production, technology, and policy integration.