Study on psychological effects of and mental health impacts of combat remotely piloted aircraft operations

(a) Study required The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a comprehensive study on the psychological effects and mental health impacts of remotely piloted aircraft combat operations on members of the Armed Forces and other personnel engaged in such operations. (b) Elements The study under subsection (a) shall include the following elements: (1) An assessment of the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, burnout, moral injury, and other mental health conditions among members of the Armed Forces and civilian personnel who— (A) Pilot or operate combat remotely piloted aircraft systems; or (B) analyze combat imagery and conduct targeting assessments for such systems. (2) A comparative analysis of the mental health outcomes of such individuals relative to— (A) aircrew engaged in crewed combat operations; and (B) personnel deployed in non-flying combat roles. (3) An evaluation of operational stressors unique to combat drone operations, including— (A) shift work and sleep disruption; (B) remote witnessing of lethal operations; (C) emotional disengagement and isolation; and (D) exposure to civilian casualties or traumatic visual content. (4) An assessment of existing Department of Defense mental health support services available to remotely piloted aircraft personnel and whether such services are adequate, accessible, and appropriately tailored. (5) Recommendations to improve mental health screening, treatment, and prevention for remotely piloted aircraft operators and support staff. (c) Consultation In conducting the study, the Secretary shall consult with— (1) the Surgeons General of the Armed Forces; (2) the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness; (3) the Defense Health Agency; (4) behavioral health experts within the Department of Veterans Affairs; and (5) appropriate scientific institutions with expertise in combat psychology and remote warfare. (d) Report to Congress Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives an unclassified report on the results of the study conducted under this section, including the recommendations described in subsection (b)(5).