FORT CAMPBELL, KY – The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) conducted competitive tryouts for its UAS team on Jan. 12, 2026, here, identifying Soldiers who will represent the division in an upcoming Army UAS competition while reinforcing the unit’s commitment to innovation, readiness and modernization across the force.
Held at Fort Campbell, the tryouts brought together Soldiers from across the formation who demonstrated technical skill, adaptability and problem-solving abilities while operating unmanned aerial systems.
“The Army has sent a very clear demand signal to identify and employ the best drone teams and best drone operators, ” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Page Frazier, a member of the Robotics and Autonomous Integration Directorate. “And here at the 101st Airborne Division we are prepared to answer that call.”
Soldiers across the formation were evaluated on their physical endurance through the Air Assault obstacle course, techniques on how to employ a UAS, and how to navigate a drone system in a confined area. These attributes that were being evaluated reflected how emerging technologies are increasingly integrated into modern battlefield operations.
“The most challenging part about the tryouts so far is the air assault course, mixed with running to the nets, and then flying around, ” said Spc. Markus Sund, a participant in the drone tryouts.
This event directly supports the Army’s broader modernization strategy, and places emphasis on the importance of unmanned systems in future conflicts which is evolving the modern-day battlefield. Division leadership within the 101st Airborne Division hones in on the concept that innovation is a critical component of lethality and readiness.
As the Army continues to integrate advanced technologies into training and operations, the division sets forth to remain the trailblazers of that transformation. Through events like the UAS competition tryouts, the division is ensuring its Soldiers are equipped, empowered and prepared to meet tomorrow’s challenges head-on.
The selected team will continue training in preparation for the upcoming Army drone competition, representing the division’s commitment to excellence, adaptability and innovation across the force.
Story by SGT Parris Kersey
101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)
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