By 2019, the Army, Special Forces Command and contractors could be flying as many as 30 extra flights per day, on top of the 60 already flown by the Air Force. The Pentagon decided to include other military branches besides the Air Force, whose pilots are fatigued and overworked as it is. Though the emphasis of the expanded program is on surveillance, military commanders will reportedly increase strike capacities, too.

The strike program, which began with the Bush administration but accelerated under President Obama, is controversial. According to a report last year, 1,147 people were killed for 41 individuals targeted, a bystander casualty rate higher than previously thought. Despite that, military observers say they're the least terrible option for fighting terrorist groups like al-Qaida. The plan still requires approval from Congress, but seems like a no-brainer given the low costs compared to other options.

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