The U.S. military is gearing up for the harsh realities of drone warfare, and it’s happening relatively close to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, about 900 miles away.

In late July, the Army launched “Project FlyTrap” at Camp Kosciuszko in Poland. This initiative focuses on testing various counter-drone technologies. The Army aims to explore all potential methods for tackling drones, ranging from high-tech jamming solutions to simpler options like using shotguns.

In July, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new directive signaling the Pentagon’s establishment of a “drone control” initiative, noting that China currently dominates about 90% of the global drone market.

The Army’s goal is to prepare soldiers for emerging threats on modern battlefields by leveraging insights gained from both the war in Ukraine and ongoing exercises, as relayed by Army officials.

“There are valuable, tough lessons from conflicts around the world,” stated Colonel Donald Neal, commander of the Army’s 2nd Cavalry Regiment. “We have a defined way of operating as a U.S. military force. Plus, we are aware of the latest technology and how it enhances our mobility and lethality.”

Project FlyTrap aims to create a “multi-layer” defense strategy against drones for soldiers in outdoor settings, with support from the Army’s V Corps and collaboration from over 40 organizations, including British, Polish, and Australian military units.

“We’re focusing on the latest, advanced versions of existing technologies,” Sgt. Eric Bol noted. “We will integrate detection jamming, optical sensors, and audio systems that soldiers can use in tactical situations.”

The Army has tested five different detection systems for drones, utilizing both passive and active radio frequency detection, along with specialized radar designed specifically for identifying drones.

To neutralize these threats, a variety of radio frequency jammers have been evaluated, including devices from My Defence and Anduril Industry. Additionally, the Army explored the use of interceptor drones that can launch fiber drones at targets.

Some soldiers have trialed a system called “smart shooter,” designed to enhance targeting capabilities for fast-moving drones. The Army also assessed .50 caliber firearms equipped with dedicated optics.

While the Army has not disclosed the total costs of these tests, they noted that there isn’t a singular solution to countering drones; a multifaceted approach is necessary.

“The fundamentals of warfare remain crucial: dispersion, protection, fortification, and strategic planning,” emphasized Lt. Colonel Jeremy Medalis.

Interestingly, the Army did not test designated energy weapons, regarded as advanced counter-drone systems.

Through the FlyTrap initiative, the Army has gained significant insights into aggressive drone usage and learned how to navigate the “bubbles” created by modern defense measures.

Meanwhile, the harsh realities of drone warfare are vividly illustrated by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Reports indicate that the extensive use of drones in Ukraine has led to considerable civilian casualties, with Russian drones contributing to over 3,000 civilian deaths from the onset of the war to April 2025, according to the United Nations.

A growing concern for the U.S. is the potential for foreign adversaries to launch drone attacks from within American borders, an issue underlined by recent attempts to smuggle drones into Russia to undermine their strategic bomber capabilities.

Experts have previously warned that the U.S. is inadequately prepared to defend against such assaults, which could result in substantial damage to both military and civilian infrastructures.

Recently, the Pentagon has made considerable investments in expanding the use of drone technology across its armed services. The new approach allows military leaders to potentially authorize “large acquisitions” of drones and their components, provided they adhere to the Defense Innovation Unit’s guidelines.

The U.S. primarily relies on high-cost drones, such as the MQ-9 Reaper. However, the Pentagon’s latest focus is on low-cost, more expendable drones, taking cues from groups like the Houthi Rebels in Yemen, who have demonstrated their effectiveness.

Some of these drones can be produced for as little as $2,000 each, according to an analyst who spoke to Politico.

“Recent conflicts have pointed out significant capacity gaps, and we’re counting on Project FlyTrap to tackle these directly,” remarked Colonel Matt Davis, head of V-General Transformation.