Armed Drones: Evolution as a Counterterrorism Tool

Armed drones (also commonly called Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, or UAVs) are unmanned aircraft designed to identify, surveil, and engage ground-based targets—ranging from material to individuals—with kinetic weapons. The United States has significantly increased its use of armed drones to attack global counterterrorism targets since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 (9/11) continuing to today to support U.S. and partnering country counterterrorism missions.

Prior to 9/11, the United States deployed unarmed drones at various places around the world primarily to support surveillance activities. Congress plays a continuing role in approving, funding, and overseeing the use of UAVs.