Who Controls Drones in the Military?

Hey guys, I've been getting into drones lately and was intrigued to know which branch of the military is primarily responsible for flying them? Is there a specific area of the military that focuses on this? Could be an interesting career path.

All branches of the military employ drone technology in some capacity, but some branches use them more extensively than others. In general, the United States Air Force has the most extensive drone program and is commonly associated with the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, in military operations.

Predator drones, for instance, one of the more recognizable and widely used military drones, fall under the Air Force's umbrella. Operators who fly these remotely piloted aircraft go through specialized training under the auspices of the Air Force. This includes both the actual "pilots", who navigate the drones from afar, and the sensor operators, who manage the surveillance and weapon systems.

The Army also uses drones, mainly for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Their drone operators typically work with smaller, tactical UAVs that can be launched by hand or with a catapult system and don't require a large airfield like the larger drones operated by the Air Force.

The Navy and Marine Corps also use drones, and the recent establishment of the Space Force suggests they may also begin to incorporate unmanned technology.

If you're interested in a career operating military drones, Air Force would likely provide the most extensive opportunities, but you should research all branches to see which fits best with your broader interests and career goals. The requirements and qualifications for drone operation also vary by branch, but generally include a mix of physical, educational, and security standards.

In any case, a career in drone operation is certainly an exciting and growing field within the military.