Tanner Yackley, once a sensor operator for the U.S. Air Force, reveals what it’s like to conduct drone strikes remotely. He flew MQ-9 Reaper drones from afar, sometimes thousands of miles away from the battlefield, monitoring suspects and making strike calls with limited intelligence. Yackley also discusses the precision required and the psychological toll of making life-or-death decisions while disconnected physically from conflict.
What’s new:
The article provides firsthand descriptions of the mental strain endured by drone crews—long hours, shift work, and emotional distanced engagement with war. It also highlights how often these operators are overlooked in discussions of combat veterans.
Why it matters:
Understanding the realities behind drone warfare matters for ethics, military policy, and veteran support programs. It also informs public debate about oversight, accountability, and how remote warfare is perceived.
Key details:
- Yackley enlisted at 18, expecting a different role; ended up executing remote combat missions.
- He sometimes worked up to 12-hour shifts operating the MQ-9 Reaper from remote locations.
- Decisions often made with “limited intelligence” and distant from the battlefield; real-time observation via screens.
- After leaving service, Yackley has become an advocate for mental health for drone teams.
Mini-FAQ
What is “drone strikes” in this context?
It refers to remotely executed military strikes using unmanned aerial vehicles, where operators like Yackley monitor, target, and engage from afar.
Why does this matter for Military & Defense?
It raises questions about war ethics, precision, collateral damage, and the support needed for service members who carry heavy decision burdens across distance and screens.
What happens next?
Advocates may push for better mental health services for drone operators, clearer rules of engagement, and more transparency around how intelligence is gathered and used.
How does this affect U.S. service members?
It underscores that even those not physically on a battlefield may suffer trauma, stress, or moral injury—and might require comparable support as traditional combat veterans.
Source & CTA:
Craving the full context? Dive into the original reporting at Business Insider — read the full article and get every detail straight from the source.
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