WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today released the following statement on Ukraine’s evolving use of drone technology and the urgent need for U.S. military modernization.
“Ukraine is deploying low-cost, high-impact drones at a scale and speed that’s revolutionizing warfare. With minimal resources, they’ve used this technology to hold off a much larger force. And it’s changing how wars are fought, faster than most people realize. I’ve been to Ukraine 14 times investigating war crimes with a State Department-backed team. I’ve spoken with soldiers and generals, seen their war fighting strategies, and recognize how drones are transforming the battlefield. What we’re seeing is a shift similar to the machine gun in WWI or aircraft carriers in WWII. It’s a total evolution in warfare — and the United States is behind.
“As a 25-year Army veteran, I know what it means to ask someone to risk their life for their country. And I know we can’t do that while giving them yesterday’s tools. Yesterday, I spent time with Marines at Marine Corps Base Quantico in the Seventh District. These brave Marines are testing drones and leading from the front, but they need investment and support from Congress. If we continue to lag behind in drone technology — especially against adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran who are scaling these tools — we are putting our service members, our allies, and our national security at risk.
“As a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, I’ve been pushing for investment in low-cost FPV drones, counter-drone systems, autonomous platforms, and tactical battlefield tech since I arrived in Congress. The cost of inaction is too high. Our troops must be ready for the fight ahead. We have a responsibility to make sure they’re equipped for it.”
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