From November 7-22, the U.S. Army and Air Force will bring their Drone Dominance initiative to Camp Grayling, where soldiers will evaluate high-tech drones designed for modern battlefields.

From the Drawing Board to the Battlefield

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Seventeen defense companies will bring their drones to Camp Grayling, allowing soldiers to evaluate which systems are ready for combat. The drones are part of a $1 billion Pentagon initiative aimed at acquiring more than 200,000 small, inexpensive combat drones by 2027.

Unlike traditional military aircraft, these unmanned systems can conduct surveillance, locate enemy positions and potentially deliver deadly strikes without putting a pilot in the cockpit. The goal is to determine which drones soldiers can actually use in combat – not simply which ones look impressive during demonstrations.

The Deer Won’t Be the Only Things Moving

Unfortunately for Michigan hunters, the military’s schedule collides with firearm deer season, which opens November 15. Approximately 21,633 acres around Camp Grayling’s Range 30 Complex will be temporarily closed to the public.

Local officials worry the restrictions could hurt hunting-related tourism, restaurants, lodging and other businesses. Grayling Township Supervisor Lacey Stephan has criticized the timing, emphasizing the importance of outdoor recreation to the local economy.

Legislator Questions Timing of Hunting Closure

State Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord) is also weighing in on the controversy, questioning the timing of the closure.

“I understand the importance of military readiness, but decisions affecting public land access need to account for the people and communities who depend on these resources,” Borton said. “The timing of this closure raises legitimate concerns, and hunters deserve to have their voices heard.”

Preparing for Tomorrow’s Wars

Military officials argue the evaluation is necessary as drones transform warfare, particularly following their widespread use in Ukraine. Camp Grayling was selected by the Department of Defense as one of four premier Army testing locations nationwide.

For the Pentagon, it’s about preparing soldiers for the next battlefield. But for some northern Michigan hunters, it’s about finding somewhere else to spend their time hunting.