In addition to the increasing use of robotic platforms on the battlefield, the video showcases the 20th Engineer Brigade of the 18th Airborne Corps of the US 18th Airborne Corps overcoming the defense line. Autonomous bulldozers, carts, and drones are employed to combat mines and gouges.
On one hand, these exercises simulate an ideal scenario with no opposition. However, it is likely that isolated platforms calmly driving along the "dragon's teeth" would immediately come under fire and fail to complete their task.
Nevertheless, these exercises allow for the practice of specific actions and the collection of data, which, when organized, may lead to new technical solutions and tactical techniques. These, in turn, can address the problem of attacking heavily mined areas.
This also demonstrates that the West is actively studying the experience of fighting in SMO zones. While some places may be hindered by local ideological dogmas, the process is ongoing. It is essential to acknowledge this in order to avoid dangerous misconceptions about the enemy's combat capabilities.
In addition to halting the FARA competition, service leaders want to end UH-60 V Blackhawk production, postpone moving the Improved Turbine Engine Program into production, and phase out legacy drones.
The US Army has initiated measures to establish a mobile reserve comprising military retirees.
The US Army Publication Office has released document ALARACT 017/2024 containing relevant recommendations.
These recommendations have been distributed to military units, which include guidelines on addressing troop shortages by reinstating veterans and retirees.
In the United States, military journalists refer to this as “hidden mobilization” and draw parallels with situations in Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan.
The most recent U.S. military recall took place in May 2020, when the Pentagon called for volunteers from its 800,000-strong Ready Reserve and retired soldiers to assist in responding to the COVID pandemic.
“Retirement Recall” initiatives were also implemented during Desert Storm, 9/11, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.