U.S. Army Tests Drone to Generate Smoke Screen to Protect Bradley M2A4 IFVs in Field Exercise.

U.S. Soldiers from 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division deployed drone-enabled smoke screens while operating Bradley M2A4 infantry fighting vehicles during Exercise Spartan Focus at Fort Stewart, Georgia. The demonstration underscores how the U.S. Army is pairing unmanned aerial systems with armored units to improve reconnaissance, concealment, and battlefield survivability.

According to information published by the U.S. Department of War on February 13, 2026, U.S. soldiers assigned to 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division integrated drone-enabled smoke screens into maneuver operations during Exercise Spartan Focus at Fort Stewart, Georgia, while operating Bradley M2A4 tracked infantry fighting vehicles. The training event showcased how armored formations are incorporating small unmanned aerial systems to extend reconnaissance reach and deploy obscurants beyond the line of sight of ground vehicles. By combining upgraded M2A4 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), which feature improved survivability and digital networking, with aerial smoke delivery, the unit demonstrated a layered approach to concealment and force protection designed to complicate enemy targeting and enhance operational flexibility.
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U.S. Army tests drone-deployed smoke screen to shield M2A4 Bradley IFVs during live field exercise. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

During the field exercise, Dog Face Soldiers used small tactical drones to detect simulated enemy movements beyond the Bradley crews' direct line of sight. By extending reconnaissance range, the squadron improved its ability to anticipate threats, coordinate maneuvers, and protect mechanized infantry formations operating in contested terrain.

The integration of drones into armored operations marks a significant evolution in U.S. Army doctrine. Traditionally reliant on ground scouts and vehicle-mounted optics, mechanized units are now leveraging aerial platforms to gather real-time intelligence. This expanded situational awareness enables commanders to make faster, data-driven decisions while maintaining operational tempo.

A key component of the demonstration involved deploying smoke screens using drone coordination. By synchronizing unmanned aerial observation with ground-based smoke systems, Soldiers created layered obscuration effects designed to disrupt enemy targeting systems and surveillance assets. The tactic complicates adversary use of precision-guided munitions and drone reconnaissance, a growing threat in modern combat environments.

The Bradley M2A4 infantry fighting vehicle serves as the backbone of the operation. As the latest modernization variant, the M2A4 features upgraded power generation, improved suspension, enhanced networking capabilities, and advanced digital architecture. These improvements allow the vehicle to integrate seamlessly with external sensors, including unmanned aerial platforms, reinforcing the Army’s broader network-centric warfare strategy.

Equipped with a 25mm M242 Bushmaster chain gun, TOW anti-tank guided missiles, and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, the Bradley M2A4 provides both mobility and lethal firepower for mechanized infantry units. Its improved electrical systems support advanced communications equipment and battlefield management tools, enabling better coordination between mounted forces and drone operators.

Leaders participating in Spartan Focus emphasized that the exercise reflects lessons learned from contemporary conflicts where drones play a decisive role in detection and targeting. By training in integrated drone and smoke tactics, the 3rd Infantry Division is adapting to evolving battlefield realities in which survivability depends on speed, concealment, and technological integration.

Officials also highlighted the importance of continuous modernization across armored brigades. The Army’s push to field upgraded Bradleys and expand unmanned systems training ensures that mechanized formations remain prepared for large-scale combat operations against near-peer adversaries.

Strategically, the integration of drone-enabled obscuration with armored maneuver demonstrates how the U.S. Army is modernizing for multidomain operations. By combining robotics, advanced sensors, and legacy armored platforms, the service enhances its ability to counter emerging threats while preserving battlefield dominance. This approach underscores the Pentagon’s commitment to ensuring U.S. military forces retain a decisive edge in reconnaissance, protection, and rapid maneuver.

As Spartan Focus continues at Fort Stewart, the 3rd Infantry Division’s experimentation with drone-assisted smoke screens illustrates a broader transformation in Army doctrine, one that blends traditional armored strength with next-generation defense technology to secure U.S. operational superiority.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.