Sen. John Boozman Joins Panelists Thomas Shugart and Timothy Walton at the Hudson Institute

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, joined the Hudson Institute for a discussion on the threat weaponized drones pose to American military installations and assets and the potential impact on current and future defense capabilities. 

Joined by panelists Thomas Shugart and Timothy Walton, Center for a New American Security Senior Fellow and Hudson Institute Senior Fellow, respectively, the senator discussed the threat drones pose to military assets and how the United States and allies can and must adapt.

Discussion began with drawing comparisons between Ukraine’s “Operation Spiderweb,” a drone-based attack on grounded Russian aircraft, and Israel’s usage of drones during their campaign against Iran. The senator noted the use of inexpensive drones to attack and destroy costly military assets, and how the ability of geographical distance and barriers to provide sanctuary can be mitigated by smuggling and assembling drones behind enemy lines.

“I think it really woke up our military leaders to the fact that we are so vulnerable. I think it woke our nation up, hopefully,” said Boozman. “It has dramatically changed the way we think.”

The senator also discussed his role as chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee when asked about the importance of accelerating military construction while managing costs at home and abroad. He underlined the importance of providing flexibility and ensuring funding for the tools, resources and personnel needed to protect American interests. 

Further, Boozman highlighted the role and responsibility Arkansas has in our national defense, from investments into vocational training and career opportunities and the state’s status as a critical industrial defense hub.

“Camden, Arkansas, is one of the big defense hubs in the country right now – right at the very top,” said Boozman. “Also, Mississippi county in Arkansas is the biggest steel producing county in the country, with the most modern steel plants in the world.”

Boozman previously discussed the threat of drone attacks on U.S. domestic military installations and assets with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, among others.

To view the panel’s discussion, click here.