Overview
- The U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command announced the move in mid‑July after the relocation was authorized on March 3, 2026, with the brigade’s headquarters and two battalions set to move in Fiscal Year 2027 and remaining elements beginning in FY2028.
- The transfer is designed to position the 116th Military Intelligence Brigade to lead deployment of HADES, a soldier‑crewed, jet‑based aerial intelligence system that uses on‑board AI and machine learning to process data faster and sense at longer ranges.
- HADES replaces legacy turboprop AISR aircraft and is on track for a first prototype delivery in Fiscal Year 2026, with the Army pursuing interim jet platforms and planning aircraft that meet high‑altitude, long‑endurance and heavy‑payload requirements.
- The restructure will create the Army’s first operational unmanned aircraft system battalion at Fort Hood and consolidate aviation and intelligence functions to improve training, sustainment, and remote launch operations.
- The phased move will add 1,228 personnel to Fort Hood and reduce numbers at Fort Gordon, Fort Bliss, Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield, affecting local housing, schools and base services while aiming to cut sustainment and mobility costs by operating UAS from home station.