The first training sessions with the drone were positively evaluated
The US Army has officially adopted the latest version of the Soldier Borne Sensor (SBS) reconnaissance drone. This month, the military personnel underwent training with the system for the first time, and their feedback was extremely positive. The soldiers noted the ease of operation, high video quality and a significant increase in situational awareness in difficult terrain.
The adoption of the SBS was an important step in the implementation of the program to improve the combat effectiveness of the infantryman of the future.
Soldier Borne Sensor — "eyes" for a soldier in battle
Developed as part of the large-scale Soldier of the Future Program, the Soldier Borne Sensor is a compact tactical drone that can be easily carried in a backpack and launched manually. It is designed to quickly obtain intelligence information in real time, for example, when storming buildings, patrolling urban areas, or scouting in remote areas.
The drone is equipped with day and night vision cameras, transmits video to a tablet or augmented reality glasses of a soldier and is able to maneuver in confined spaces.
How a drone improves battlefield safety
The key objective of SBS is to minimize the risk to personnel. Instead of putting a soldier in the line of fire for reconnaissance, the unit can launch a drone to detect ambushes, enemy positions, or explosive devices. This makes it possible to make decisions based on reliable information without putting the lives of military personnel in immediate danger.
According to army officials, the system provides "an additional level of protection," especially in operations in an urban environment where traditional intelligence is difficult.
Integration into the Soldier of the Future program
Soldier Borne Sensor is part of a comprehensive approach to infantryman modernization. It integrates with other elements of the tactical system: communications, navigation, body armor and weapons. In the future, the drone may receive commands from artificial intelligence or work in autonomous groups ("swarms"), expanding the squad's control area.
Serial deliveries of the SBS will begin in the coming months, with full-scale deployment expected during 2026.