The United States Navy has conducted, for the first time, the operational launch of the LUCAS (Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System) drone from a warship.<br /><br />The operation took place on December 16, when a LUCAS system was launched from the aft deck of the USS Santa Barbara, an Independence-class vessel, while the ship was conducting missions in the Persian Gulf.<br /><br />According to official information, the launch was carried out by personnel from Task Force 59 of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and used a rocket-assisted booster, demonstrating the feasibility of deploying the LUCAS from naval platforms. This initiative significantly expands U.S. operational options by enabling the use of these drones both in maritime environments and from land-based positions.<br /><br />Source and images: U.S. Navy
