South Korea has launched an ambitious initiative to enhance its military capabilities by providing drone training to every conscript undergoing mandatory military service. Dubbed the “500,000 Drone Warriors” project, the initiative aims to prepare soldiers for the integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into combat strategies while simultaneously boosting the nation’s drone manufacturing industry.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back announced the initiative, emphasizing its significance in updating military practices and utilizing emerging technologies for improved combat readiness. “The effort … will not only strengthen our military’s drone operation capabilities, but also serve as a foundation for individual soldiers to be active in related industries after discharge,” Ahn elaborated, highlighting the initiative’s dual purpose of military enhancement and economic opportunity.
As part of the project, the South Korean government plans to distribute drones and competency training programs to all military personnel. This initiative will also see the procurement of more than 11,000 commercial drones, a move intended to ensure a consistent supply of equipment while simultaneously supporting local drone manufacturers. The ministry has proposed a budget of 20.5 billion won (approximately $14.7 million) for the project in 2026, which is currently awaiting approval from the nation’s legislature.
Minister Ahn further explained that the military’s proactive approach would stimulate the domestic drone industry, creating continued demand for locally produced components. This demand is expected to foster innovation and growth within the sector, forming a favorable ecosystem for drone technology in South Korea.
To kickstart the initiative, the Republic of Korea Army’s 36th Division, located in Wonju, Gangwon Province, has been assigned as the first test unit for evaluating commercial UAS for military applications. The division was selected due to its capacity to conduct training in diverse environments, including urban and mountainous terrains, and its previous experience with drones during the 2024 Winter Youth Olympics.
The defense ministry indicated that more units may be designated in the future to explore and assess various types of UAS further. Ahn stressed the importance of the 36th Division leveraging its knowledge and experience in drone operations, encouraging innovative practices that could be adopted across other military units. This will enable the rapid validation of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, within the military framework.
Through the “500,000 Drone Warriors” initiative, South Korea aims not only to bolster its military prowess but also to capitalize on the growing significance of drone technology in both defense and commercial sectors.
