The Stimson Task Force on U.S. Drones Policy issued its report and recommendations in June 2014. The task force was supported by three expert working groups focused on different aspects of U.S. drones policy: ethics and law; export controls and regulatory challenges; and military utility, national security, and economics. The three working groups met periodically and provided detailed background, invaluable insights, and context to task force members, including key data points, topics for consideration, and potential recommendations. Each working group has produced a background report with its own recommendations, conclusions, and issues for further research.

The Military Utility, National Security, and Economics Working Group examined the U.S. military and intelligence services’ increasing reliance on and use of drone technology. The working group considered the capabilities likely to be needed for U.S. military and national security planning in the future and the growing commercial market driving technology innovation. The group also considered the economic viability of UAS and whether they are an effective tool for fulfilling U.S. national security goals.

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