• The launch: CENTCOM stood up Task Force Falcon Strike, a multi-domain, multinational one-way attack drone unit combining air, surface, and underwater unmanned systems, led by US Special Operations Command Central staff alongside regional partner representatives, building on Task Force Scorpion Strike (established December 2025).

  • The track record: Scorpion Strike launched the first aerial attack drone from a US Navy warship last December, deployed drones during Operation Epic Fury, and used unmanned attack vessels in July strikes on Iranian port facilities, setting the template Falcon Strike expands on.

  • The context: CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper is inviting regional allies to build a "unified multi-domain, multinational deterrent," with the move coming as the ongoing Iran war strains US munitions stockpiles and pushes leaders toward cheaper, faster drone and counter-drone development.