US uses ‘low-cost one-way attack drones’ for first time in combat during Iran strikes

Published February 28, 2026 3:24pm ET



The U.S. military used cheap attack drones in its opening operations for the first time in combat against Iran, Central Command confirmed on Saturday afternoon.

The joint U.S.-Israeli military strikes, called Operation Epic Fury, on Iran early Saturday morning, were the beginning of a broad military campaign seemingly designed to topple the regime that has been in power in Tehran since the 1979 revolution.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.