Articles tagged with "autonomous-drones"
A2RL 2026 tests vision-only AI drones at racing speeds
The 2026 Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) Drone Championship, held at UMEX in Abu Dhabi, showcased high-speed autonomous drone racing under strict sensor limitations. Fourteen international teams competed using drones equipped solely with a single forward-facing RGB camera, an IMU, and onboard AI, with no LiDAR, stereo vision, or external control allowed. The event featured three race formats: the AI Speed Challenge, the Multi-AI Drone Challenge, and the headline Human vs AI race, with a total prize pool of $600,000. The competition emphasized software-driven autonomy over hardware complexity, aiming to replicate the sensory limitations of human FPV pilots and push advances in perception, planning, and control algorithms. Key results included the Technology Innovation Institute’s TII Racing team achieving the fastest autonomous lap at 12.032 seconds in the AI Speed Challenge, and MAVLAB winning the Multi-Drone Gold Race, demonstrating reliable multi-agent coordination and collision avoidance under race conditions. In the closely
robotautonomous-dronesAI-dronesdrone-racingartificial-intelligencedrone-technologyrobotics-competition10 combat loyal wingman drones built to scout and protect fighter jets
The article discusses the emergence of loyal wingman drones—Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) designed to operate alongside manned fighter jets to enhance air combat capabilities. These autonomous drones extend the reach and effectiveness of manned aircraft by performing surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision strikes, thereby reducing risks to human pilots. The integration of manned and unmanned systems is expected to transform air combat tactics, improving flexibility and survivability for air forces. Several prominent loyal wingman programs are highlighted. The US-developed Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie, operational since 2019, supports F-22 and F-35 fighters with advanced autonomy, swarm coordination, and a versatile payload capacity. Australia’s Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat, developed with the Royal Australian Air Force, is a stealthy, multi-role drone capable of autonomous or manned accompaniment missions, equipped with infrared sensors and adaptable payload bays. Russia’s Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclescombat-dronessurveillance-systemselectronic-warfareUS MQ-20 Avenger combat drone shows it can hunt targets on its own
The General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger autonomous combat drone successfully demonstrated its capability to independently detect, track, and engage a crewed aggressor aircraft during a live air combat exercise on January 18. Utilizing an Anduril Infrared Search and Track sensor that detects heat signatures without emitting signals, the drone processed sensor data onboard to predict the target’s flight path, calculate an intercept, and execute a simulated weapon firing, resulting in a confirmed successful kill. This test showcased the drone’s advanced software and sensor integration, enabling real-time decision-making and autonomous mission execution across contested airspace without continuous human control. In addition to its combat effectiveness, the MQ-20 maintained disciplined flight behavior by adhering to strict airspace boundaries, including Keep In and Keep Out Zones, ensuring safe operation alongside civilian and military aircraft. The drone demonstrated smooth transitions between flight autonomy (basic flying tasks) and mission autonomy (complex combat decisions), highlighting its flexibility and reducing operator workload. This balance of aggressive engagement with controlled, predictable
robotautonomous-dronescombat-dronesdrone-sensorsunmanned-aerial-vehiclesmilitary-technologydrone-softwareStrike drones with lethal firepower set to be delivered to US Marines
The U.S. Marine Corps is set to receive over 600 Bolt-M strike drones from California-based defense company Anduril, under a $23.9 million contract awarded as part of the Organic Precision Fires-Light (OPF-L) program. These machine-learning infused drones provide lethal precision firepower in a man-portable package, designed for ease of operation and rapid deployment by individual soldiers. Bolt-M drones feature autonomous waypoint navigation, target-agnostic object tracking, customizable standoff distances, and engagement modalities, with a range of 20 kilometers and endurance exceeding 40 minutes. Initial operational deployment is planned for summer 2026, with training and use in tactical formations. The Bolt-M systems underwent 13 months of rigorous testing involving over 250 units, demonstrating category-leading range, endurance, and payload capacity across multiple target scenarios. The OPF-L program aims to equip dismounted Marine infantry rifle squads with precision strike capabilities beyond line of sight, enhancing organic loitering munitions on
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologymachine-learningprecision-strikeloitering-munitionsdefense-roboticsNew US interceptor drone with net-gun autonomously counters UAV swarms
Fortem Technologies has introduced the DroneHunter 5.0, an advanced US-made autonomous interceptor drone designed to defend critical infrastructure and personnel from coordinated UAV swarm attacks. This latest iteration features significant upgrades including dual onboard cameras, enhanced computing power, and improved maneuverability, enabling it to detect, track, and engage multiple drone targets simultaneously even in electronically contested or cluttered environments. The system emphasizes faster interception and higher autonomy, reducing operator workload and allowing for quicker responses without constant manual control. The DroneHunter 5.0 employs a patented net-gun entanglement capture mechanism that safely intercepts and carries hostile drones, making it suitable for use over sensitive locations such as military bases, airports, energy sites, and large public events. It integrates with Fortem’s SkyDome command-and-control system, which can coordinate up to five interceptors to counter multiple concurrent threats, reflecting the evolving nature of drone swarm tactics observed in recent conflicts like the war in Ukraine. Selected by the US Department of Defense
robotautonomous-dronescounter-drone-technologyUAV-defensedrone-swarm-interceptionFortem-Technologiesairspace-securityPalmer Luckey says the coolest thing about Anduril expanding to Long Beach is the fighter jets
Anduril, a defense technology company, announced plans to expand its campus in Long Beach, California, creating approximately 5,500 new jobs rather than relocating existing employees. The new facility, expected to be completed by mid-2027, will cover 1.18 million square feet across six buildings, combining office and industrial space focused on research and development. The company aims to hire a diverse workforce including manufacturing workers, technicians, engineers (electrical, mechanical, aerodynamics), assembly staff, and logistics personnel to support global distribution of their products. Palmer Luckey, Anduril’s founder, highlighted Long Beach’s status as a major aerospace hub as a key reason for the location choice. While the job creation is significant, Luckey emphasized that the most exciting aspect for him is the potential to manufacture autonomous fighter jets at the new campus. These jets would be capable of taking off directly from the factory and flying to combat zones autonomously, representing a major advancement in military technology. And
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyAIaerospacemanufacturingdefense-technologyZipline charts drone delivery expansion with $600M in new funding
Zipline, a U.S.-based autonomous drone delivery and logistics startup, announced a $600 million funding round that values the company at $7.6 billion. This investment will support Zipline’s expansion into Houston and Phoenix early in 2024, with plans to operate in at least four U.S. states by 2026. Founded in 2014, Zipline has developed its own drone delivery ecosystem, including software, launch and landing systems, and drones. The company currently operates in five African countries, several U.S. cities, and Japan, delivering food, retail, agriculture, and health products. In the U.S., Zipline launched a home delivery service last year using its Platform 2 drones, which carry up to eight pounds within a 10-mile radius, partnering with retailers such as Walmart, Panera, Chipotle, and Wendy’s. Zipline has seen rapid growth in its U.S. deliveries, surpassing two million drone deliveries in 2024 and experiencing
robotautonomous-dronesdrone-deliverylogistics-technologydrone-logisticsdelivery-dronesdrone-expansionWing to expand drone delivery to another 150 Walmart stores
Wing, an Alphabet-owned drone delivery company, is significantly expanding its partnership with Walmart by adding drone delivery services to 150 more Walmart stores across the U.S. This expansion builds on existing operations in Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta and will continue through 2026 into 2027. Wing’s chief business officer, Heather Rivera, highlighted strong customer demand, noting that the top 25% of users order via drone delivery about three times weekly. Popular items include groceries like eggs, ground beef, fresh produce, and snacks. The expansion follows earlier plans to launch in cities such as Houston, Orlando, Tampa, and Charlotte, with Houston’s launch scheduled for January 15. Once complete, Wing’s service will cover over 270 Walmart stores and reach roughly 10% of the U.S. population. Wing’s primary commercial growth strategy remains closely tied to Walmart, despite having a partnership with DoorDash. The initial collaboration began in 2023 with two Dallas-area stores and has since grown to
drone-deliveryroboticsautonomous-droneslogistics-technologyretail-innovationlast-mile-deliverycommercial-dronesUS Marines test deadly autonomous drones to assist crewed fighter jets
Northrop Grumman and Kratos Defense are collaborating to develop autonomous military drones, specifically enhancing Kratos’ Valkyrie drone, to support US Marine Corps fighter jets in high-threat environments. The Valkyrie, capable of flying at speeds up to 659 mph and altitudes of 45,000 feet, is designed as a collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) that can autonomously provide aerial support, divert enemy fire, and perform backup roles alongside crewed fighters like the F-35 and future F-47 jets. This initiative is part of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Uncrewed Expeditionary Tactical Aircraft (MUX TACAIR) program, which builds on prior testing by the US Air Force’s Skyborg program focused on CCAs. Northrop Grumman will contribute advanced mission kits, including sensors and software-defined technologies, as well as its Prism open architecture autonomy software to enable the Valkyrie’s autonomous operations. Kratos aims to deploy these drones globally, emphasizing their
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesdefense-systemsartificial-intelligenceaerospace-engineeringTurkey stages world’s first autonomous jet dogfight in historic test
Turkey has achieved a world-first milestone in autonomous aerial warfare by successfully conducting a fully autonomous close formation flight between two Kizilelma unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). On December 28, Baykar, a Turkish defense firm, demonstrated these jet-powered drones performing synchronized, high-speed formation flying without any human intervention, relying solely on artificial intelligence, onboard sensors, and real-time data exchange. This breakthrough highlights Turkey’s leadership in unmanned aviation and marks a significant advancement in AI-powered aerial combat capabilities. The Kizilelma drones, introduced in 2022, are designed for rapid, maneuverable missions in hostile environments, including aerial dogfights and cooperative operations with manned fighter jets. Featuring stealth technology, AI-driven flight control, internal weapon storage, and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities from ships, the Kizilelma represents a new class of combat drones with capabilities previously exclusive to crewed fighters. The program is currently in advanced flight
robotautonomous-dronesunmanned-aerial-vehiclesAI-in-aviationmilitary-technologydrone-swarmaerial-roboticsChina's unmanned drones refuel autonomously under harsh conditions
Chinese researchers at Northwestern Polytechnical University have successfully demonstrated autonomous aerial refueling between two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) under challenging conditions, marking a significant advancement in long-endurance drone operations. The test involved one UAV acting as a tanker and the other as a receiver, which autonomously located, tracked, and docked with the tanker despite visual obstacles such as glare and partial occlusion. This system relied on a machine vision approach using a dual-camera near-infrared setup and deep learning algorithms to detect and track the tanker’s refueling drogue with over 99% accuracy and centimeter-level positioning precision, enabling docking without human intervention during high-speed formation flight. This breakthrough has strategic implications, particularly for China’s heavy-duty Jiu Tian drone platform, which boasts a 7,000-kilometer range and the capacity to carry over 200 loitering munitions. While the drone’s unrefueled range does not reach the continental United States, autonomous aerial refueling
robotautonomous-dronesaerial-refuelingmachine-visiondeep-learningUAV-technologymilitary-aviationChina testing underwater unmanned drones, can conduct long-range mission
China is reportedly testing large unmanned underwater drones, known as Extra-Extra-Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XXLUUVs), which are comparable in size to conventional diesel submarines but fully autonomous. These drones, over 131 feet (40 meters) long and likely powered by hybrid diesel-electric propulsion with large lithium-based battery banks, can carry more fuel, sensors, and weapons due to the absence of human crews. With an estimated range of around 10,000 nautical miles (18,520 km), they could traverse vast ocean distances, loiter for extended periods, and potentially conduct long-range missions such as blockading strategic sea routes like the Panama Canal or the U.S. West Coast. Intended to be armed with conventional submarine weapons like mines and torpedoes, these drones might also serve as motherships for smaller drones, although this capability is considered less certain. Their long endurance and stealth make them valuable for missions including mine-laying, undersea infrastructure attacks (
robotunmanned-underwater-vehicleautonomous-dronesenergy-storagelithium-ion-batteriesmilitary-technologyunderwater-robotics250 Miles Range. 4 Hours Endurance. One Drone: ALTIUS-600M
The ALTIUS family of loitering munitions, developed by Anduril Industries and showcased at the 2025 Paris Air Show, represents a significant evolution in drone warfare. Unlike traditional “kamikaze” drones designed solely to crash into targets, the ALTIUS systems are modular and software-defined, allowing a single airframe to carry diverse payloads such as reconnaissance sensors, electronic warfare kits, signal intelligence tools, and explosive warheads. Guided by advanced onboard autonomy and an open architecture, these drones can perform a wide range of missions including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strikes. The ALTIUS-600M is a medium-weight loitering munition capable of flying up to four hours and covering distances up to 273 miles (440 km), offering superior endurance and range compared to most drones in its class. Its lightweight design and versatility enable launches from ground, air, or sea platforms, making it suitable for multi-domain operations. The larger ALTI
robotautonomous-dronesloitering-munitionsmilitary-technologydrone-endurancemodular-dronesunmanned-systemsNorthrop reveals lightweight combat drone to flank US Air Force jets
Northrop Grumman has introduced Project Talon, a new lightweight autonomous combat drone designed to support US Air Force jets by providing affordable, high-performance capabilities. Unveiled on December 3 at Northrop’s Scaled Composites facility in Mojave, California, Project Talon aims to address shortcomings in Northrop’s earlier Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) proposal, which performed well but was too costly. The drone is about 1,000 pounds lighter than the previous design, features a fully composite structure, and has 50% fewer parts, enabling a 30% reduction in production time. Northrop emphasizes that the key innovation lies not just in the aircraft itself but in a streamlined development process that integrates design and manufacturing teams to accelerate production and reduce costs. Project Talon is expected to fly for the first time by fall 2026 and surpasses Northrop’s internal affordability and performance targets, although detailed specifications remain undisclosed. The drone fits into the Air Force’s vision of
robotautonomous-dronescombat-droneaerospace-materialslightweight-composite-structuresmilitary-technologydrone-manufacturingGermany builds interceptor robot that net-traps rogue drones mid-air
German researchers at Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg have developed an autonomous interceptor drone designed to detect, track, and capture unauthorized drones entering restricted airspace, enhancing civil security at sensitive locations such as airports, stadiums, and prisons. Supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the system uses an extendable net to safely trap rogue drones mid-air without causing debris or collateral damage, preserving the captured drone for forensic analysis. The project began in 2017 under MIDRAS and evolved into the IDAS (Innovative Drone Defence System) project, culminating in a fully functional interceptor drone demonstrated to security authorities. A key innovation of the IDAS system is its autonomous target acquisition, employing LiDAR sensors and AI-based camera recognition to distinguish drones from harmless objects like birds. Unlike earlier concepts involving multiple coordinated drones, the system relies on a single larger interceptor drone, simplifying deployment and improving reliability. Once activated by security personnel, the interceptor autonomously navigates, pursues, and captures the target
robotautonomous-dronesdrone-interceptionAI-recognitionLiDAR-sensorscivil-securitydrone-defense-systemUK factory to build fleet of smart submarine-hunting drones for allied defense
Helsing, a European defense technology firm, has opened the UK’s first factory dedicated to producing AI-enabled submarine-hunting drones, called the SG-1 Fathom, in Plymouth. The 18,000-square-foot Resilience Factory will serve both as a manufacturing site and a Maritime Center of Excellence, focusing on research, development, and mass production of these autonomous underwater gliders. The SG-1 Fathom is compact—6.3 feet long, 0.91 feet in diameter, and weighing 132 pounds—designed for easy deployment and recovery by small crews from commercial or military vessels. Its key strength lies in endurance, capable of operating for up to three months, patrolling discreetly in swarms or holding position on the seabed across vast underwater areas. The SG-1 Fathom drones integrate with Helsing’s Maritime AI platform, Lura, which uses a large acoustic model to detect and classify vessels in real time, even in low-bandwidth environments
robotautonomous-dronesAIunderwater-glidersmaritime-defenseHelsingsubmarine-detectionXTEND secures U.S. DoW contract for autonomous drones - The Robot Report
XTEND Reality Inc. has secured a multi-million-dollar fixed-price contract with the U.S. Department of War (DoW) to produce one-way attack drone kits. These expendable unmanned aerial vehicles are equipped with integrated warheads and can loiter until they identify and engage targets. XTEND’s swarm technology allows a single operator to launch and control multiple drones simultaneously, supporting ground troops or operating independently. Their AI-driven mission backbone, XOS, integrates sensors, radars, payloads, and third-party apps to enhance precision and survivability in complex terrain through coordinated swarm behavior. The company has incorporated lessons from recent conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine to improve safety, versatility, operational flexibility, and tactical deployment. Key innovations include their ESAD high-voltage fuse-safety board, modular drone types tailored for specific missions, and a modular nest system for adaptable deployment. Each nest holds a single drone and can be autonomously deployed from a truck by a remote operator, enabling rapid mission support. XT
robotautonomous-dronesAI-pilotsdrone-swarm-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesmilitary-roboticsVTOL-dronesRussia's new AI drones can hunt targets 62 miles away on their own
Russia is advancing a new generation of autonomous AI-driven drones, notably the V2U model, capable of independently hunting targets up to 62 miles (100 km) away without relying on GPS or human input. These drones use machine vision, terrain analysis, and onboard digital terrain maps to identify and strike targets with high precision, including camouflaged objects and military vehicles. The V2U drones feature a 14MP camera, laser rangefinder, and AI modules, with weekly code updates to enhance learning. Russia reportedly tests 20 to 50 of these drones daily, employing swarm tactics where drones visually monitor each other and adapt if one is lost, demonstrating reactive group intelligence. To extend operational range, Russia deploys larger "mother drones" that relay signals to smaller drones, enabling attacks at greater distances. This technology may also be adapted for long-range weapons like the Iranian Shahed UAVs used by Russia. The V2U drones can operate fully autonomously or via first-person-view over LTE
robotAI-dronesautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyswarm-intelligencemachine-visionUAVs$2,500 Ukrainian STING drones down 1,000 Russian Shaheds in 4 months
Ukraine has developed the STING interceptor drone, a compact, agile, and cost-effective unmanned aerial vehicle designed to neutralize Russian attack drones such as Shaheds, Lancets, Zala, and SuperCam models. Created by the Ukrainian team “Wild Hornets,” the STING drone can be deployed rapidly—within 15 minutes—and launched from almost any surface without special equipment. It features autonomous return capabilities if no target is found, an engagement range of up to 25 kilometers, and is equipped with advanced systems like Hornet Vision and a 360° antenna ground station, enabling operation even under electronic warfare conditions. Piloted via VR goggles for first-person view control, the STING drone achieves high-speed, precise interceptions, often culminating in mid-air collisions to destroy enemy UAVs. Since the start of serial production four months ago, STING drones have reportedly downed over 1,000 Russian drones, marking one of Ukraine’s most successful combat drone programs. The “Night Hornets
dronesdrone-warfareinterceptor-droneUAV-technologymilitary-roboticsautonomous-dronesFPV-dronesUS firm's fighter drone completes first flight, can integrate weapons
Anduril’s YFQ-44A fighter drone has successfully completed its maiden flight as part of the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which aims to develop autonomous drone wingmen to team with manned fighter aircraft. The YFQ-44A reached flight testing just 556 days after design began, marking an unprecedented pace for a major fighter aircraft program. This milestone highlights the role of competition in accelerating innovation and delivering combat capabilities that maintain U.S. air superiority. The YFQ-44A is designed for semi-autonomous operation, capable of executing mission plans, managing flight controls and throttle adjustments independently, and returning to base with minimal human intervention. Unlike remotely piloted drones, it operates with an "operator on the loop" rather than "in the loop," emphasizing autonomy as fundamental to affordable mass deployment and enhanced mission effectiveness. Through ongoing flight testing, Anduril and the Air Force are refining manned-unmanned teaming tactics to integrate
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesAI-in-defensecollaborative-combat-aircraftdrone-flight-testingCan Taiwan’s 3,200 Combat Drones Stop China’s 2,000 Warplanes?
China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force currently operates a formidable fleet of over 2,000 combat aircraft, including advanced stealth fighters like the J-20 and strategic bombers such as the H-6. In response, Taiwan is developing a substantial force of approximately 3,200 combat drones designed to counterbalance China’s aerial superiority. These drones, which include loitering munitions and kamikaze types, represent a shift toward asymmetric warfare, leveraging AI, autonomy, and swarm tactics to overwhelm traditional manned aircraft through attrition and numbers. This evolving dynamic signals a transformation in air combat doctrine, moving away from conventional metrics of air superiority based solely on the number of manned planes. Instead, success will depend on the ability to integrate and adapt to new technologies such as hypersonic interceptors and electronic warfare capabilities. The competition between China and Taiwan highlights a broader strategic contest in the Indo-Pacific region, with significant implications for U.S. military strategy and regional security. Ultimately,
combat-dronesdrone-warfaremilitary-roboticsautonomous-dronesAI-in-defenseaerial-combat-technologydrone-swarmsUS firm's firefighting drones aim to cut response time to under ten mins
Seattle-based startup Seneca has developed an autonomous firefighting drone system designed to drastically reduce wildfire response times to under ten minutes. These modular drones, capable of carrying over 100 pounds of fire-suppressing agents each, use AI and advanced computer vision to navigate and extinguish fires rapidly and safely. Operating solo or in swarms of four to six units, the drones can deliver between 500 and 1,000 pounds of suppression power per mission without requiring helipads, refueling, or extensive ground infrastructure. The system is portable, remotely deployable with only an approximate fire location, and built to integrate seamlessly with existing firefighting operations. With wildfire intensity in the U.S. having more than doubled over the past two decades—causing an estimated $1 trillion in annual economic losses and threatening 115 million Americans—Seneca’s technology aims to address a critical gap in rapid fire suppression. The drones can access hazardous or remote areas inaccessible to human crews, enabling early-stage fire containment during
dronesfirefighting-technologyautonomous-dronesAI-navigationwildfire-suppressionfire-responsedrone-swarmsNew drone completes 1,000-mile tests in GPS-denied environments
Auterion, a Swiss-American uncrewed vehicle software company, has unveiled the Artemis drone, a long-range deep strike system capable of flying up to 1,000 miles and operating effectively in GPS-denied environments. Tested extensively in Ukraine under the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit’s Artemis program, the drone employs advanced visual targeting and a built-in terminal guidance system to ensure high-precision strikes. Designed similarly to the Shahed drone and developed in Ukraine, Artemis can carry warheads up to 88 pounds (40 kilograms) and utilizes Auterion’s Skynode N mission computer and Visual Navigation system for precise navigation and targeting. Production lines are being established in the U.S., Ukraine, and Germany to support large-scale manufacturing. Operational tests in Ukraine validated the drone’s capabilities in ground launches, long-distance flights, and terminal targeting with and without GPS, confirming its readiness for deployment. Auterion partnered with a confidential Ukrainian hardware manufacturer and allied firms in the U.S. and Europe
robotautonomous-dronesdrone-technologydefense-technologyAI-navigationGPS-denied-navigationmilitary-roboticsUS tests new tech to tackle rising drone threat over American airspace
US Northern Command (NORTHCOM) is confronting a significant rise in unauthorized drone incursions over American military bases, with incidents increasing 82% from 230 in 2023–24 to 420 in 2024–25. These incursions, occurring about once or twice daily, pose security risks and operational challenges, especially since many drones are civilian hobby types but some are suspected of espionage, including a Chinese national apprehended at Vandenberg Space Force Base. Legal restrictions complicate responses, as most bases lack authority to engage drones due to FAA protections of civilian airspace; only select Department of Defense sites, such as nuclear or special operations facilities, have counter-drone authority. To address this, NORTHCOM conducts an annual exercise called “Falcon Peak,” designed to test and refine counter-drone technologies in real-world scenarios without endangering civilians. The 2025 event at Eglin Air Force Base brought together DoD units and private defense companies to evaluate detection,
drone-technologycounter-drone-systemsautonomous-dronesdefense-technologymilitary-securitydrone-detectiondrone-interceptionEdge computing and AI: A conversation with Palladyne AI's Ben Wolff
In Episode 216 of The Robot Report Podcast, hosts Steve Crowe and Mike Oitzman feature an interview with Ben Wolff, CEO of Palladyne AI, highlighting the company's advancements in AI and robotics. Palladyne AI focuses on simplifying robot programming through an improved user interface, developing autonomous drone swarming technology, and creating hardware-agnostic AI solutions. Wolff underscores the benefits of edge computing and stresses a customer-centric approach to ensure their products are essential and user-friendly. The episode also covers significant industry news, including ABB Group’s sale of its Robotics & Discrete Automation division to SoftBank for $5.375 billion amid declining orders and revenues. The report reviews SoftBank’s varied robotics investments over the years, such as acquisitions and divestitures involving Aldebaran Robotics, Boston Dynamics, and others. Additionally, Boston Dynamics showcased its latest humanoid hand design optimized for industrial durability and affordability, while Figure AI unveiled its Figure 03 humanoid robot aimed at safe, scalable
roboticsAIedge-computingautonomous-dronesrobot-programminghumanoid-robotsSoftBank-robotics-investmentsInside the Switchblade 600: America’s AI-Powered Kamikaze Drone
The U.S. Army’s 1st Cavalry Division recently conducted a live-fire exercise featuring AeroVironment’s Switchblade 600, a next-generation kamikaze drone that integrates advanced AI capabilities. Unlike traditional loitering munitions, the Switchblade 600 can make autonomous decisions before striking, enhancing its precision and lethality. This backpack-portable drone is equipped with a Javelin warhead capable of destroying main battle tanks, has a range of 40 kilometers, and can loiter for up to 40 minutes. Additionally, it can be launched by a single soldier and even recalled mid-flight, earning it the nickname “missile with an undo button.” The Switchblade 600 represents a significant evolution in modern warfare by combining AI-driven autonomy with powerful strike capabilities, enabling more flexible and responsive battlefield operations. Its ability to be controlled and adjusted in real-time offers tactical advantages, reducing collateral damage and increasing mission success rates. The recent live-fire exercise demonstrated the drone’s
robotAIautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesbattlefield-innovationdefense-technologyUS pilots fly alongside AI-piloted drones for next-gen air combat
The US Air Force is advancing next-generation air combat by training pilots to operate alongside AI-piloted drones, notably the XQ-58A Valkyrie. This stealthy, autonomous drone, developed by Kratos under the Low-Cost Attritable Strike Demonstrator program, is designed for collaborative missions with manned aircraft such as F-35s, F-22s, F-15EXs, and F-18s. Capable of flying up to 3,000 nautical miles at speeds of 0.86 Mach and altitudes of 45,000 feet, the Valkyrie aims to provide a cost-effective, high-performance platform that can rapidly be produced in large numbers. The AI technology enables split-second decision-making and defensive maneuvers, requiring pilots to adapt to the drones’ fast reactions and dynamic flight behavior. Human-machine teaming is a key focus, with ongoing tests at Eglin Air Force Base exploring how AI-piloted drones can operate in concert
robotAIautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyhuman-machine-teamingunmanned-aerial-vehiclesdefense-systemsAmazon to resume drone delivery following crash in Arizona
Amazon plans to resume its Prime Air drone delivery service in Arizona starting Friday, following a temporary suspension triggered by a crash earlier this week. The incident involved two Prime Air drones colliding with a crane boom near Amazon’s same-day delivery site in Tolleson, Arizona, causing them to fall. This prompted an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration, while Amazon conducted its own internal review, concluding that neither the drones nor their technology were at fault. To enhance safety, Amazon has implemented additional measures such as improved visual inspections to detect moving obstructions like cranes. Since launching in November 2024, Amazon’s Prime Air has been delivering packages up to five pounds in the Phoenix Metro area, its sole commercial market to date. The program has encountered setbacks including executive departures and a previous suspension of drone operations in Texas and Arizona after a December 2024 incident in Oregon. Despite these challenges, Amazon secured FAA approval in May 2024, which allowed it to expand Prime Air
robotdrone-deliveryAmazon-Prime-Airautonomous-dronesUAV-technologydrone-safetylogistics-automationAuterion raises $130M to build drone swarms for defense - The Robot Report
Auterion LLC has raised $130 million in a Series B funding round to advance its development of autonomous drone swarms for defense applications. The company’s software suite, including its AuterionOS platform and Nemyx defense system, enables coordinated drone swarms capable of operating across air, land, and sea domains. Auterion emphasizes that future warfare will rely on software-defined, unmanned systems deployed at scale, rather than individual drones. The funding, led by Bessemer Venture Partners with participation from existing investors and $25 million from the U.S. Department of War, will help scale production and deliver AI-enabled swarming capabilities to democratic governments worldwide. Auterion’s technology integrates AI with commercial off-the-shelf hardware to create interoperable drone fleets controlled by a single operator, enhancing battlefield effectiveness through mass autonomous operations. The platform supports secure communications, edge computing, and resilience against GPS and video jamming, with proven performance in real combat conditions such as Ukraine. The company sees
robotautonomous-dronesdrone-swarmsAI-enabled-systemsdefense-technologyAuterionOSunmanned-systemsAir Force confirms Boeing is building F-47 stealth jet for 2028
The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that Boeing is actively building the F-47, a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet intended to succeed the F-22 Raptor, with a planned first flight by 2028. Announced by Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin at the Air and Space Forces’ Air, Space and Cyber Conference, the F-47 program is progressing rapidly, with manufacturing already underway just months after Boeing was selected in March 2025. The jet is designed to feature advanced stealth capabilities, modern sensors, powerful engines capable of exceeding Mach 2 speeds, a combat radius over 1,000 nautical miles, and autonomous drone wingmen. The Air Force aims to procure at least 185 units, matching or surpassing the current F-22 fleet size, to maintain air superiority in future conflicts. Despite an ambitious development timeline extending through fiscal 2030, officials suggest the F-47 could become operational earlier, though some advanced features like next-generation engines may be introduced
robotautonomous-dronesstealth-technologyaerospace-engineeringmilitary-technologyBoeingfighter-jetsNew coordination tech lets drone swarms fly faster without accidents
Researchers at Durham University have developed T-STAR (Time-Optimal Swarm Trajectory Planning), a new coordination technology that enables drone swarms to fly faster and safer by sharing data in real time. This system allows drones to make instant decisions, avoid collisions, and navigate complex environments at high speeds, overcoming a key limitation where drone groups previously had to slow down to prevent crashes. Early tests demonstrate that T-STAR improves mission speed, reliability, and precision, making drone swarms more effective for urgent tasks like search and rescue, disaster relief, and environmental monitoring. T-STAR’s real-time communication and collective decision-making capabilities allow drones to operate as an intelligent, coordinated swarm, opening new possibilities for their use in high-risk and time-sensitive scenarios. Beyond emergency response, the technology holds promise for industries such as logistics and agriculture, where large-scale autonomous drone operations could benefit from enhanced speed and safety. This advancement reflects a broader trend in drone swarm innovation, with other companies like Lockheed Martin, IBM
robotdrone-technologyswarm-roboticsautonomous-dronesreal-time-communicationcollision-avoidanceaerial-roboticsFirst flight of US sixth-gen F-47 jet's 'loyal wingman' combat drone
The US Air Force, in partnership with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), has successfully completed the first test flight of the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, a jet-powered uncrewed fighter drone designed to operate alongside manned sixth-generation fighters. Built and flown in just over a year, this drone represents one of the fastest development cycles for a production-representative military aircraft. The YFQ-42A is part of the Air Force’s broader Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which aims to deploy over 1,000 affordable autonomous jets to enhance air dominance in future conflicts. Unlike previous GA-ASI drones, the YFQ-42A is specifically engineered for air-to-air combat, featuring a stealthier airframe and advanced AI autonomy core trained through thousands of test hours to operate semi-independently with manned fighters. The drone’s design builds on prior concepts and extensive flight test experience from GA-ASI’s MQ-20 Av
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyAI-in-aviationunmanned-aerial-vehiclescombat-dronesdefense-roboticsAI robot builds robot’s brain 20x faster than humans
Computer scientist Peter Burke from the University of California has developed a novel system where generative AI models like ChatGPT autonomously generate the control software—or "brain"—for a drone, significantly accelerating the development process. Unlike traditional drone control software, Burke’s approach involves two "brains": a higher-level AI-generated control system called WebGCS, which runs a web-based dashboard on a Raspberry Pi onboard the drone, and a lower-level firmware managing flight operations. This system enables the drone to perform autonomous functions such as obstacle avoidance, with human operators able to intervene if necessary. Burke conducted multiple development sprints using various AI coding tools and models, overcoming challenges related to model context limitations. Ultimately, using the Windsurf tool, the AI-generated WebGCS produced approximately 10,000 lines of code in about 100 hours over 2.5 weeks—a process about 20 times faster than Burke’s previous four-year development of a similar drone control system. Industry experts, like Geolava
robotAIautonomous-dronesgenerative-AIdrone-softwareRaspberry-Pirobotics-programmingDrone swarms: How they actually work and what industries should care - The Robot Report
The article from The Robot Report explores the concept, functionality, and practical applications of drone swarms, emphasizing their potential to transform industries like agriculture. Unlike loosely coordinated groups of drones controlled centrally, true drone swarms operate through decentralized decision-making, where each drone independently processes local data and synchronizes with peers without hierarchical control or constant human oversight. This natural swarm behavior, inspired by ants or birds, enables scalability, adaptability, and efficient coverage of large or complex environments, reducing labor costs significantly—up to 30% over time—primarily by minimizing human involvement, which often accounts for 70% of drone operation expenses. In agricultural settings, autonomous drone swarms utilize onboard computing, specialized sensors (e.g., multispectral cameras), and GPS technologies to perform precise, task-based actions such as targeted fertilization. For example, drones detect nutrient deficiencies using vegetation indices and dynamically assign the closest capable drone to apply fertilizer, optimizing resource use and preventing environmental damage. The article highlights that over the next five
robotdrone-swarmautonomous-dronesUAV-technologyagriculture-technologyswarm-intelligencereal-time-data-coordinationThis Drone Could Lead the Next Air War: Meet the XQ-58 Valkyrie
The XQ-58 Valkyrie is a cutting-edge, unmanned aircraft developed by the U.S. Air Force to advance autonomous air combat capabilities. Designed to operate without the need for runways, it can fly alongside manned fighter jets such as the F-35 and F-22, serving as a loyal wingman. Its multifunctional role includes carrying weapons, gathering intelligence, and acting as a decoy or sacrificial asset to protect human pilots during combat missions. This high-speed, long-range drone represents a significant shift toward integrating autonomous systems into aerial warfare, enhancing both offensive and defensive strategies. Recent successful tests have demonstrated its potential to reshape future combat scenarios, highlighting the growing importance of unmanned platforms in next-generation military operations. The XQ-58 Valkyrie embodies the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to safeguard pilots and maintain air superiority.
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclesAI-in-warfaredefense-roboticsaerial-combat-systemsDrones obey F-16, F-15 pilots in USAF’s most advanced live tests yet
The US Air Force recently achieved a significant milestone in next-generation air combat by successfully demonstrating real-time manned-unmanned teaming during a high-fidelity training exercise at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. In this test, pilots flying F-16C Fighting Falcon and F-15E Strike Eagle jets each controlled two semi-autonomous XQ-58A Valkyrie drones, marking one of the most advanced operational evaluations of autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs) to date. These low-cost, runway-independent drones are designed to operate with high autonomy under human supervision, performing missions such as strike, surveillance, and electronic warfare in contested environments, thereby reducing pilot workload and increasing mission survivability while maintaining ethical control over lethal effects. Developed by Kratos Defense, the XQ-58A Valkyrie serves as a leading testbed for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programs, featuring a combat radius over 2,000 nautical miles and modular payload capabilities. Unlike traditional UAVs, these
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologymanned-unmanned-teamingartificial-intelligenceair-combat-systemsdefense-roboticsNew York police could procure counter-drone system to tackle UAV menace
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is considering deploying an advanced counter-drone system called the Iron Drone Raider, developed by Maryland-based American Robotics, to address the growing problem of unauthorized and potentially hostile drones over the city. This system uses AI-powered interceptor drones that autonomously detect, track, and neutralize small hostile UAVs by capturing them with mesh nets and safely lowering them to the ground via parachutes. The entire process is automated, requiring no human pilot intervention, and can operate continuously, providing real-time video feeds to remote operators. This move comes amid a surge in drone incursions across the United States, including near sensitive sites such as military bases and nuclear power plants, with the FBI receiving over 5,000 drone sighting reports in late 2024 alone. While other counter-drone methods like laser weapons, bullets, hacking, or radio jamming exist, they tend to be more expensive and complex to maintain. The Iron Drone Raider system, costing under $200
robotdrone-technologyAIcounter-drone-systemautonomous-dronesUAV-interceptionsecurity-technologyUS firms unveil sixth-gen F-47's wingmen drones at Paris Air Show
At the 2025 Paris Air Show, US defense firms Anduril Industries and General Atomics unveiled full-scale models of their autonomous loyal wingmen drones—YFQ-44A "Fury" and YFQ-42A respectively—designed to operate alongside the sixth-generation F-47 fighter jets currently under development by Boeing for the US Air Force. These drones, part of the Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, are expected to have a combat radius exceeding 700 nautical miles and will be capable of air-to-air combat, reconnaissance, and other missions to extend the operational range and capabilities of manned aircraft. The Air Force plans to make a production decision by 2026, with around 1,000 drones operational by 2029, complementing over 185 F-47 fighters ordered for delivery in the 2030s. The development of these autonomous drones reflects a strategic focus on maintaining air superiority in the Indo-Pacific region amid rising tensions
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologydefense-innovationair-combatunmanned-aerial-vehiclesUS-Air-ForceUS firm's autonomous jet shoots down aircraft with missiles in test
General Atomics successfully conducted a groundbreaking test of its MQ-20 Avenger autonomous drone on June 11, 2025, demonstrating advanced capabilities including dynamic midair station-keeping with multiple real aircraft and simulated missile engagements. The MQ-20 used government reference autonomy software alongside Shield AI’s Hivemind software to autonomously patrol a combat area, coordinate with human command, and intercept two live aircraft, culminating in a simulated successful missile strike. This test highlighted the drone’s ability to seamlessly transition mid-flight between different autonomy software suites without compromising stability or mission continuity. The exercise underscored the maturity of autonomous systems for future military platforms and emphasized the importance of adhering to standardized government reference architectures. Such standards enable interoperability between hardware and software from multiple vendors, preventing vendor lock-in and fostering a flexible “app store” model for autonomy capabilities. General Atomics stressed that this modular approach supports rapid integration, ongoing innovation, and faster deployment of autonomy features, aligning military technology development with the agility seen in
robotautonomous-dronesunmanned-aerial-vehiclesdefense-technologyAI-autonomymilitary-roboticssoftware-defined-missionsFrom surveillance to public service: the rise of drone swarms
The article discusses the evolving role of drone swarms from primarily surveillance tools to vital assets in civil protection and public service. As climate-related disasters increase and urban environments become more complex, drone swarms—autonomous aerial systems capable of decentralized collaboration and real-time adaptation—offer faster, smarter, and more reliable responses to crises. The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of this innovation, developing AI-driven drone swarms that mimic natural behaviors to self-organize and perform tasks such as searching for survivors, mapping hazards, and assessing infrastructure damage during emergencies. Beyond disaster response, these swarms also support crisis prevention by monitoring traffic, air quality, and structural integrity in smart cities, aligning with digital governance goals like resilience and sustainability. TII’s work is closely tied to the UAE’s AI Strategy 2031, emphasizing ethical AI development and positioning drone swarms as tools for public good rather than surveillance or militarization. Despite their potential, public perception remains a challenge,
robotautonomous-dronesdrone-swarmsAIsmart-citiesdisaster-responsepublic-safetyWalmart, Wing launch drone delivery in 5 more cities - The Robot Report
Walmart, in partnership with Wing Aviation LLC, is expanding its drone delivery service to five additional U.S. cities: Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, and Tampa. This expansion builds on Walmart’s existing drone operations in Northwest Arkansas and Dallas-Fort Worth, aiming to enhance convenience by delivering thousands of products—including groceries, urgent care items, and pet food—directly to customers’ doors within 30 minutes or less. Since launching drone delivery in 2021, Walmart has completed over 150,000 deliveries, positioning itself as the first retailer to scale drone delivery and emphasizing its commitment to leveraging technology for faster service. Wing, a subsidiary of Alphabet, operates lightweight drones capable of flying beyond visual line of sight up to six miles from stores, adhering to FAA guidelines. The company has completed over 400,000 commercial deliveries worldwide and collaborates with multiple partners, including DoorDash and Brookfield Properties, to introduce drone delivery to shopping malls in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Walmart is also working with other drone providers like Zipline to expand quieter and more efficient delivery options. Overall, Walmart and Wing are driving the adoption of drone delivery as a scalable, safe, and sustainable solution integrated into existing logistics networks.
robotdrone-deliveryWalmartWing-Aviationlogistics-technologyautonomous-dronesretail-innovation