Army to Cut 6,500 Aviation Jobs as It Shifts to Drones

The U.S. Army plans to cut nearly 6,500 active-duty aviation positions over the next two years as it pivots from manned helicopters to unmanned systems for future conflicts. Officials told Task & Purpose the move is part of a broader transformation aimed at restructuring both ground and air formations to better leverage drone technology.

Currently, the Army has around 30,000 aviation branch soldiers. Beginning in fiscal years 2026 and 2027, “talent panels” will decide which officers and warrant officers remain in aviation and which will be reassigned to other Army branches. Panels could also extend to enlisted aviation soldiers, including flight crews and maintenance personnel.

“The use of airspace for maneuver that was once unique to our formations is now becoming accessible to soldiers in multiple formations via drone technology,” said Maj. Montrell Russell, an Army spokesperson.

The strategy marks a reversal from 2019, when the Army boosted pay and promotions to address a shortage of nearly 700 warrant officer pilots. Now, leaders are analyzing force structure to minimize disruption as they reduce manned aviation roles.

The 6,500 active-duty cuts come in addition to about 4,600 reserve soldiers impacted by a separate drawdown that will eliminate all Army Reserve helicopter units by next summer.

Talent panels, composed of senior leaders, will review performance evaluations, tactical aptitude, and officer preferences to decide retention or reclassification. Soldiers reassigned from aviation will be able to transition into other understrength Army career fields through voluntary transfer programs.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, taskandpurpose.com