The U. S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that American forces used the new LUCAS drones for the first time during strikes on Iran, Military Times reports.

LUCAS stands for Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System. As the name suggests, it is designed to be an inexpensive loitering munition. In terms of layout, the drone mirrors the Iranian Shahed-136 and the Russian Geran. It follows a tailless configuration with a triangular wing and no conventional tail assembly. According to available specifications, the drone can cover distances of up to 800 kilometers and carry a payload of up to 18 kilograms. Each unit is estimated to cost around $35,000.

The Telegram channel «Povernutye na voyne» highlighted another feature: like upgraded versions of the Geran, LUCAS is equipped with a Starlink receiving antenna. The channel’s authors noted that, if the satellite signal is not intercepted, the network enables operators to maintain contact with the drone and guide it to its target until the moment of impact.

Earlier, CENTCOM had reported that the U.S. military deployed previously undisclosed systems during the operation in Iran. In its summary of the first day of Operation «Epic Fury," the command referred to «special capabilities» among the assets involved but did not specify the systems in question.

On the morning of February 28, the United States and Israel announced the launch of a military operation against Iran. The strikes hit several cities across the Islamic Republic, including the capital. One attack targeted the residence of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, resulting in his death. In response, Iran carried out missile strikes and launched drones against sites in Israel, as well as U.S. airbases in the Middle East.