The Pentagon's broader Autonomous Warfare Command, announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Sept. 30, is a proposed four-star combatant command with authorities similar to those of a military service to expand drone and robotic capabilities across the armed forces. Its target launch is Oct. 1, 2027, subject to congressional approval. US Southern Command was directed in April to establish an autonomous warfare command integrated into its operations.
Russian warblogger Yury Baranchik warned that the new US combatant command is a significant development Russia should not ignore. His warning came as the announcement had drawn little public commentary in Russia.