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Pentagon Hunts Drone Pilots for $1.1B Initiative
15 Oct
Summary
- Pentagon recruits 100 drone operators for Gauntlet III.
- No experience level is a barrier to program registration.
- The drone initiative has a $1.1 billion funding commitment.

The US Army is actively recruiting around 100 drone operators to assess emerging military aircraft as part of a significant Pentagon initiative. This effort, known as Gauntlet III, is a key component of the Drone Dominance program, which boasts a $1.1 billion funding commitment.
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is managing the recruitment, specifically seeking service members with experience in first-person-view (FPV) drones. These FPV drones are utilized for various missions, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes.
Regardless of extensive prior experience, military personnel are encouraged to register. The Pentagon aims to establish a comprehensive database of drone operators, recognizing that "pilot skill" encompasses diverse abilities beyond just flying, such as tactical knowledge and specialized navigation.
Interested individuals must complete an official Pilot Interest Form using a valid military email address. Participation requires coordination with the applicant's military branch. Successful candidates may have the opportunity to operate experimental aircraft and contribute to crucial procurement decisions for next-generation drone technology.