The mission of the United States National Drone Association is to prepare American servicemembers to compete and win in the drone era. To accelerate this mission, we are launching training and certification opportunities for individual servicemembers — alongside our squad competitions — to get more warfighters drone-ready.
Starting in June 2026 with a single offering, we will be expanding the scope and volume of trainings to better serve the warfighter. We are pleased to offer these trainings free of charge — with housing included — for eligible servicemembers.
A focused three-day introduction to modern FPV drone systems — from first principles to your first flight. Free for eligible servicemembers, with housing included.

Overview: Become a qualified Attack Drone Operator training alongside the best America’s military has to offer.

In Support of the Commander-in-Chief and Secretary of War’s intent for Unleashing Warfighter Drone Dominance, the US National Drone Association assesses individual demonstrated proficiency in standards derived from the joint force that require advanced piloting skills, safe payload procedures, and accurate live strikes.
Operators may certify on the core competencies required to deliver American drone dominance by demonstrating the Knowledge, Skills and Proficiencies required to pursue the tasks as follows:
Participants who complete Intro to FPV Drones will earn the USNDA FPV Pilot Certification — rendering you eligible for attendance at future USNDA Drone Crucibles and advanced training echelons.
The FPV Pilot cert is your entry point into the full USNDA pipeline. From here, the path continues through future certifications, and — for the top 1% — Drone DevGru.
Individuals who demonstrate proficiency in standards derived from the joint force that require advanced piloting skills, safe payload procedures, and accurate live strikes on three target types:
Successful completion of each USNDA certification lands you a “Master Attack Drone Pilot” cert — positioning you for instructional credentials, and the ability to try for Drone DevGru.
The future of drone warfare is crafted by the fluent Attack Drone pilots of the United States Armed Forces. Drone DevGru members consistently push the envelope — testing out new concepts of operations, and acquiring a long list of “first time” operations.
This exceptional group of warfighters is available by invite only, to those who have completed all USNDA certifications.
Both programs are available to:
Need help getting CO authorization? Email training@usnda.org and we’ll send you a template.