Inside the U.S. Army’s Counter-Drone Training Hub
At the edge of the Arizona desert, the U.S. Army’s Yuma Proving Ground has become a focal point for counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) expertise. Known for decades of testing advanced military hardware, the installation now hosts a Joint C-UAS Academy that draws participants from across the armed services and civilian law enforcement. This specialized school has been in operation for over a year, providing hands-on instruction to a diverse mix of operators confronting the growing challenge posed by hostile drones.
The proliferation of unmanned aerial systems has transformed modern warfare. Initially leveraged by the U.S. military for reconnaissance and precision strike missions, these aircraft have reduced risk to personnel in dangerous environments. Yet as the technology becomes more accessible, adversaries have sought to exploit it, compelling the development of robust countermeasures. Yuma Proving Ground’s long-standing role in evaluating C-UAS equipment positioned it naturally to lead in training those who will deploy and operate these systems in the field.
“We’ve trained individuals from all branches, and agencies like the FBI and Secret Service,” said Kevin Lovett, liaison officer for the Joint C-UAS Academy. “The Secret Service uses some of our equipment to protect the President.” This cross-sector participation underscores the relevance of counter-drone skills not only in combat zones but also in domestic security contexts.
The academy’s launch coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing immediate adaptation. Classes continued with reduced numbers, distanced seating, and transparent barriers between desks. Despite these constraints, the nine-day curriculum maintained its intensity. Students arrive from backgrounds ranging from infantry to electronic warfare to air defense, each bringing unique operational perspectives. “They learn in a very short period of time how to utilize these systems,” Lovett noted.
Training blends classroom instruction with practical field exercises. Participants fly and identify drones, then apply electronic countermeasures in simulated engagements. All scenarios employ non-kinetic methods—rather than destroying the aircraft, students use electronic “drone busters” to disrupt navigation signals, forcing the drone to return to its operator. This approach reflects the growing emphasis on precision and control in counter-UAS doctrine, minimizing collateral damage while neutralizing threats.
“It gives Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines enough time to get familiarity and proficiency with these systems,” Lovett explained. “The systems themselves are pretty user-friendly.” While most equipment used in training originates from the U.S. Army inventory, exposure to these systems benefits personnel from other branches who may encounter them during joint operations or deployments.
Yuma Proving Ground’s environment offers unique advantages for such work. Its stable air, arid climate, and extensive control over the radio frequency spectrum create ideal conditions for both testing and training. The installation’s vast experience with UAS and C-UAS technologies further enhances the program’s depth. “Yuma Proving Ground is an ideal place to do this,” Lovett emphasized. “There is a lot of counter-UAS testing done at YPG, and we interface with those folks. The fact that they’re here provides us a little more situational awareness as to the testing and validation of these systems.”
For engineers and technologists, the academy’s activities highlight the interplay between hardware capability, electronic warfare techniques, and operational readiness. The electronic disruption tools employed rely on precise RF manipulation, a discipline requiring both technical skill and situational judgment. The controlled environment at YPG allows for repeatable, measurable outcomes, critical for refining tactics and validating system performance.
As unmanned systems continue to evolve in speed, autonomy, and resilience, the need for adaptable countermeasures will remain acute. Facilities like Yuma Proving Ground, with their blend of test infrastructure and training expertise, are positioned to play a central role in preparing operators to meet these challenges head-on.
