ELLENWOOD, Ga. — The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) has established a specialized Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) unit to expand its ability to support state and local agencies during emergencies. GSDF Soldiers conducted their first UAS field training exercise at the Ellenwood Readiness Center on October 4, 2025.
The new UAS unit is tasked with educating, training, and conducting drone operations in support of the GSDF mission. Drones are increasingly vital tools in emergency management and military operations, providing real-time aerial imagery for intelligence gathering, search and rescue, and disaster assessment. They enable responders to perform tasks that may be too dangerous or time-consuming for manned aircraft.
A Presidential Executive Order issued on June 6, 2025, noted that drones have the potential to enhance public safety while reinforcing America’s leadership in technological innovation. The U.S. Fire Administration, an entity of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency, likewise reports that first responders across the country are increasingly using drones to support a wide range of operations. These systems provide critical aerial perspectives, improve access to hazardous or hard-to-reach areas, and can reduce the risk to personnel in the field.
As a component of the Georgia Department of Defense alongside the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard, the GSDF serves under the authority of the Governor and the Adjutant General. When activated, the GSDF provides a trained, disciplined, and rapid response volunteer force to assist state and local agencies and ensure the welfare and safety of Georgia’s citizens.
The establishment of the UAS unit reflects the GSDF’s continued commitment to professionalism, innovation, and its core values of Professional Volunteers, Duty, and Honor.
Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Soldiers conduct Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations field training exercise, Ellenwood Readiness Center, Ellenwood Ga., Oct. 4, 2025.
(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alexander Davidson)
Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Soldiers conduct Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations field training exercise, Ellenwood Readiness Center, Ellenwood Ga., Oct. 4, 2025.
(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alexander Davidson)
Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Soldiers conduct Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations field training exercise, Ellenwood Readiness Center, Ellenwood Ga., Oct. 4, 2025.
(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alexander Davidson)