Story perspectives

U.S. Deploys Autonomous Drones in Operation Epic Fury

3/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The United States deployed Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) uncrewed drone speedboats for patrols against Iran, their first use in active conflict.
The Pentagon identifies the program as part of Operation Epic Fury.
The U.S. Navy has faced challenges building an autonomous-vessel fleet due to technical issues.
Tim Hawkins of the Pentagon said GARC logged 450 hours and 2,200 nautical miles in patrols, but did not address testing setbacks.

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Story summary

The United States deployed Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) uncrewed drone speedboats for patrols against Iran, their first use in active conflict.
The Pentagon identifies the program as part of Operation Epic Fury.
The U.S. Navy has faced challenges building an autonomous-vessel fleet due to technical issues.
Tim Hawkins of the Pentagon said GARC logged 450 hours and 2,200 nautical miles in patrols, but did not address testing setbacks.