The US Army’s 101st Airborne Division is moving fast to bring small-unit drone innovation to the battlefield.
Its newly established Robotics and Autonomous Integration Directorate (RAID) has introduced the ABE 1.01, a modular, low-cost unmanned aircraft system (UAS) built to let soldiers take direct control of battlefield tech.
At around $750 per unit, the ABE 1.01 is a fraction of the cost of comparable commercial drones, which typically average $2,400.
Its modular frame can be assembled in roughly 20 minutes, allowing for quick field repairs and mission-specific configurations.
Each system is built at Fort Campbell using US-made components sourced through the Defense Innovation Unit’s Blue UAS framework to ensure trusted, secure operations.
Currently optimized for reconnaissance and surveillance, the ABE 1.01 may soon see expanded roles as the RAID plans to submit it for review and approval to carry lethal payloads, including the military-grade plastic explosive C4.
Training and Future Potential
Conceptualized by Brig. Gen. Travis McIntosh, the RAID acts as the division’s central hub for weaving robotics, autonomy, and AI into daily operations.
In partnership with EagleWerx, Emerging Tech, and Force Integration, the directorate supports the broader push to stay ahead in Large-Scale Long-Range Air Assault missions.
To develop operator expertise for the ABE 1.01, the RAID launched the Purpose Built Attritable System Academy at Fort Campbell — an eight-day, 40-hour course on deploying, controlling, and maintaining the new drone.
While primarily aimed at infantrymen with prior experience, the program is open to soldiers from other specialties.
The training emphasizes drone reconnaissance and kinetic effects in a controlled environment, ensuring soldiers gain safe, repeatable, and mission-relevant skills.
Looking ahead, the RAID plans to expand beyond small drones to include loitering munitions, launched effects, and AI-driven ground robotics.
“The future of the RAID is not set in stone; we will listen to the commander and soldier feedback on the ground,” said McIntosh. “We envision RAID to fully integrate autonomous and AI systems, whether delivered by the Army or manufactured in-house.”
