In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Brabs” Brabner for a deep dive into the rapidly evolving world of military drone technology. With over 25 years in the U.S. Army and extensive experience in combat, defense acquisitions, and unmanned systems, Brabner shares his insights on how drones are permanently transforming warfare. From lessons learned in Iraq and Afghanistan to real-time observations from Ukraine, he explains the strategic, tactical, and operational advantages of small UAS, the Army’s shift toward purpose-built attritable systems, and the importance of rapid adaptation. This conversation explores cutting-edge developments like EOIR sensors, communication relay payloads, and kinetic FPV drones, while stressing the urgency of innovation, regulatory reform, and industry collaboration to maintain U.S. drone dominance.

[00:00:00] Brabner on the growing realization across the DoD that failure to adapt to drone technology could result in catastrophic consequences in future conflicts.
[00:04:09] Lessons from Ukraine: how free battlefield lessons inform U.S. joint requirements and innovation.
[00:06:39] Shift from snipers to drone operators as the most lethal battlefield role; drones destroying thousands of armored vehicles.
[00:10:45] Addressing past capability gaps: shortening the sensor-to-shooter timeline and empowering tactical units with organic UAS assets.
[00:13:55] The hunter-killer paradigm: pairing reconnaissance drones with kinetic FPV systems for maximum effect.
[00:18:13] Importance of communication extension payloads for operational advantage in denied environments.
[00:20:45] Electronic warfare payloads and survivability in GPS-denied environments.
[00:22:29] Overcoming regulatory hurdles: decentralizing risk acceptance to speed deployment.
[00:23:41] Incremental path toward advanced drone lethality, starting with safe, compliant designs like the “Audible” modular payload.
[00:29:57] Tactical use cases for drones in defensive positions, from marking targets to calling in precision fires.
[00:32:37] The SECDEF memorandum’s emphasis on long-term vision, strategic investment, and continuous adaptation.
[00:34:28] Encouraging industry innovation and competition to avoid stagnation.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Brabs” Brabner has served over 25 years in the U.S. Army, with multiple combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. His career spans frontline command, defense acquisitions, and leadership in unmanned aerial systems development. As Branch Chief in Requirements at Fort Moore, Brabner has been at the forefront of shaping the Army’s future drone capabilities, advocating for rapid adaptation, organic lethality at the tactical level, and streamlined acquisition processes. His work on the “Audible” program and purpose-built attritable systems reflects a deep commitment to empowering soldiers with innovative, survivable, and effective battlefield tools.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brabner-17b124253/