US Marine Corps Develops Copy of Iran’s Shahed-136 Drone, Reports Indicate
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the US Marine Corps has recently developed an inexpensive combat drone named ‘Lucas’, which is a near-replica of Iran’s Shahed-136 drones. The National Interest reported that the US, traditionally seen as the world’s most innovative nation, is now emulating drone technology from countries like Iran, China, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine, which have heavily invested in drone development.
The report highlights that Iran’s use of cost-effective and efficient Shahed drones in recent conflicts has significantly influenced global military strategies. Russia has reportedly relied on these drones in its war with Ukraine, while Israel has expressed concerns over their presence in its airspace. Venezuela has even allowed Iran to establish multiple factories for producing these drones on its soil.
The National Interest notes that the US-made Lucas drone bears a striking resemblance to the Shahed-136, with no evident independent innovation. The report suggests that the US acquired a Shahed drone, reverse-engineered its technology, and developed the Lucas as a domestic version. This development is seen as ironic, given the US military’s historical reluctance to acknowledge Iran’s advancements in military technology.
Earlier reports from CNN revealed that the US military has formed its first attack drone squadron in West Asia, utilizing drones whose design and technology were directly derived from Iran. This squadron, under the control of a special group named ‘Scorpion Attack’, was established by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) several months ago.
A US military spokesperson confirmed to CNN that the Lucas drones were developed after reverse-engineering Iran’s Shahed drones. CENTCOM’s press release stated that the Lucas drones, deployed by CENTCOM, have a long range and are designed for autonomous operations, capable of being launched via various mechanisms, including catapults, rocket-assisted takeoff, and mobile ground and vehicle systems.
