Articles tagged with "military-drones"
China's rifle-wielding drone achieves flawless results in tests
Chinese researchers have developed a special-operations drone capable of firing a standard infantry assault rifle with exceptional precision, achieving a 100% hit rate in controlled live-fire tests. The drone hovered about 33 feet above ground and successfully engaged a human-sized target 328 feet away, hitting the vital area every time across 20 single shots. At a closer range of 164 feet, it scored 19 out of 20 hits, with the single miss attributed to defective ammunition rather than system error. This marks a significant advancement in drone weaponization, as the system uses a conventional infantry rifle rather than custom or heavily modified firearms, indicating a move toward practical, battlefield-ready technology. Key technical improvements include a redesigned rigid mounting system that fixes the rifle to the drone’s optical sensor, minimizing mechanical misalignment during flight, and advanced software that dynamically adjusts firing angles based on distance, wind, and drone orientation. Extensive computer simulations prior to live testing enhanced the system’s accuracy, boosting the theoretical hit rate from about
robotdrone-technologymilitary-dronesprecision-targetingautonomous-weaponsfire-control-systemsstabilization-technologyRussia’s Geran drones get jet power for harder-to-stop strikes
Russia has developed an upgraded version of its Geran long-range attack drone, designated the Geran-5, which features a significant enhancement: a Telefly JT80 turbojet engine. This jet propulsion increases the drone’s speed and range, making it harder to intercept compared to earlier propeller-driven models like the Geran-3. The Geran-5 measures about 6 meters in length with a wingspan of up to 5.5 meters and weighs around 200 pounds. Its aerodynamic design has shifted from the delta wing and blended wing-body layout of previous Iranian Shahed-136-based models to a more conventional tube-like fuselage with straight wings and tail, resembling the Iranian Karrar drone. This redesign, combined with jet propulsion, boosts its operational range to an estimated 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) and enhances survivability against Ukrainian air defenses. The Geran-5 incorporates a mix of Iranian design elements and Russian modifications, including a 12-channel Kometa satellite
robotunmanned-aerial-vehicledrone-technologyjet-propulsionmilitary-droneslong-range-strikeUAV-advancementsWhy the largest-ever US arms sale to Taiwan has Beijing seeing red
On December 18, the United States finalized its largest-ever arms sale to Taiwan, valued at over $11 billion. This unprecedented deal includes a mix of defensive and offensive weaponry, such as the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), kamikaze drones like the Altius-600 and 700M, and MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile Systems capable of striking targets up to 190 miles away. These advanced systems surpass previous arms deals, including the $9 billion package in 2019, and notably provide Taiwan with capabilities that could reach mainland China, crossing Beijing’s declared “red line” related to its “One-China” principle. In response, China imposed sanctions on 20 major US defense firms and 10 executives involved in the arms trade, including companies like Northrop Grumman, Boeing’s St. Louis defense unit, and Anduril Industries, whose founder Palmer Luckey was personally sanctioned. China’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that Taiwan is a core interest
robotmilitary-dronesdefense-technologymissile-systemstactical-weaponsunmanned-aerial-vehiclessolid-fuel-missilesChina's Type 076 carrier seen with electromagnetic launch drones
Recent high-resolution images from Shanghai reveal China’s significant advancement in ship-based unmanned combat aviation, showing multiple stealthy drone airframes docked near the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s new Type 076 amphibious assault ship, Sichuan. These drones, featuring swept wings, low-observable designs, and nose landing gear equipped with catapult launch bars, indicate they are designed for electromagnetic launch systems rather than conventional runways. The close proximity of these drones to the Type 076 suggests imminent deck-based trials, marking a shift from conceptual designs to real-world testing of carrier-launched unmanned combat drones. Additionally, the presence of a navalized Wing Loong-type drone alongside stealthier models points to a mixed unmanned air wing concept, potentially combining surveillance, strike, and support roles from a single ship. Notably, several large eight-wheeled trucks equipped with complex electrical systems and catapult mechanisms were observed, likely serving as mobile electromagnetic launch platforms. This modular truck-mounted system could enable drone
robotunmanned-aerial-vehicleselectromagnetic-launchmilitary-dronesnaval-technologydrone-carrierautonomous-systemsUS Navy fires Iranian-style kamikaze drone from 3,100-ton warship for the first time
The US Navy achieved a significant milestone on December 16 by successfully launching a Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drone—a one-way, kamikaze-style attack drone—from the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbara in the Arabian Gulf. This marks the first time such a drone has been launched from a naval vessel at sea, underscoring the Navy’s commitment to rapidly fielding affordable, effective unmanned combat capabilities. The LUCAS drone, part of Task Force Scorpion Strike, is designed for flexibility, capable of being launched from ships, ground catapults, and mobile platforms, enabling quick deployment without extensive infrastructure. Vice Adm. Curt Renshaw highlighted the launch as a demonstration of innovation and collaboration that will enhance regional maritime security and deterrence. This development aligns with the broader US military focus on unmanned and autonomous systems in the Middle East, where such technologies support surveillance, quick-strike options, and force protection. The deployment of the
robotunmanned-systemsmilitary-dronesautonomous-technologynaval-innovationdefense-technologyloitering-munitionsBlack Hawk drone remotely flown by soldier using tablet with 'Matrix'
A historic milestone was achieved in August 2025 when a US Army National Guard sergeant first class, without prior pilot training, successfully planned and executed missions using an optionally piloted Black Hawk helicopter remotely via a handheld tablet. This demonstration occurred during the Northern Strike 25-2 exercise, showcasing the Black Hawk equipped with Sikorsky’s MATRIX autonomy technology, developed with DARPA and the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency. The optionally piloted vehicle (OPV) Black Hawk can operate either with a pilot onboard or autonomously, enabling missions such as cargo delivery, precision airborne drops, sling-load transport, and simulated medical evacuations without human pilots aboard. The OPV Black Hawk completed multiple complex logistics and recovery tasks under real operational conditions, including a 70-nautical-mile resupply mission remotely commanded from a Coast Guard vessel on Lake Huron. Other notable achievements included an autonomous airborne hookup of a 2,900-pound water tank and six autonomous sling-load operations transporting HIMARS rocket launcher tubes.
robotautonomous-vehiclesmilitary-dronesremote-controlhelicopter-droneautonomy-technologydefense-roboticsChina jumps ahead of US in race to field lighter battlefield tanks
China has unveiled its new Type 100 main battle tank, marking a significant shift towards lighter, unmanned, and intelligence-driven armored warfare. Unlike traditional tanks, the Type 100 emphasizes advanced technological integration over heavy armor, featuring a diesel-electric hybrid engine for improved mobility and stealth. It is equipped with a 105mm main gun and an unmanned turret controlled by an advanced fire control system. The tank incorporates radars, infrared, and laser warning systems capable of detecting threats and deploying countermeasures such as interceptor rockets and jamming devices. Additionally, AI enhances situational awareness and networked firepower coordination, while a deployable reconnaissance drone provides aerial surveillance. The crew benefits from augmented reality helmets offering a 360-degree, video game-like view of the battlefield, and the tank can operate both with and without a crew. In response, the U.S. military is developing the M1E3 Abrams tank, which similarly focuses on lighter weight, hybrid electric propulsion, and data-centric defensive systems
robotunmanned-vehicleshybrid-power-systemAI-systemsbattlefield-technologymilitary-dronesaugmented-realityShield AI unveils unmanned VTOL fighter jet design with 2,000-mile range
Shield AI, a San Diego-based company, has unveiled the X-BAT, an unmanned vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) fighter jet designed for expeditionary and maritime operations in contested environments. Powered by Shield AI’s Hivemind AI-enabled autonomy software, the X-BAT can operate effectively in communications-denied or degraded settings. The aircraft boasts a range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles with a full mission payload, enabling theater-scale operations from ships, islands, or austere locations. It is capable of conducting a variety of missions, including strike, counter air, electronic warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The X-BAT offers fighter-class performance with an efficient engine and powertrain designed for reliability and maintainability, while being significantly more affordable and attritable than fifth-generation jets. Up to three X-BATs can fit in the deck space of a single legacy fighter or helicopter, increasing sortie generation and operational tempo. Its combination of VTOL capability
robotautonomous-systemsVTOL-aircraftmilitary-dronesAI-enabled-autonomyunmanned-vehiclesdefense-technologyInside Australia's $1.1B Ghost Shark Drone Fleet
Australia is investing $1.1 billion in the Ghost Shark XL-AUV program, a fleet of large, autonomous underwater drones developed in partnership with Anduril Industries. These AI-powered drones are designed to operate stealthily beneath the ocean surface for extended periods—weeks at a time—without any onboard crew. Their capabilities include intelligence gathering, surveillance of enemy fleets, and precision strike potential, all while maintaining silence and evading detection. Scheduled for deployment by 2026, the Ghost Shark fleet represents a significant shift in naval strategy for Australia, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. By offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional crewed submarines, these drones aim to provide a formidable deterrent and enhance Australia's maritime security posture. The program underscores a move toward leveraging autonomous technology to reshape naval warfare and influence the regional balance of power.
robotautonomous-underwater-vehiclesmilitary-dronesAI-powered-dronesunderwater-roboticsdefense-technologyunmanned-systemsWhile U.S. stalls, Australia and Anduril move to put XL undersea vehicle into service
Australia, in partnership with defense startup Anduril, has successfully transitioned the extra-large uncrewed undersea vehicle (XLUUV) known as the "Ghost Shark" from concept to contract within three years—a milestone the U.S. Navy has struggled to achieve with its own XLUUV programs. Under a AUS$1.7 billion (US$1.1 billion) five-year contract, Australia will deploy a fleet of Ghost Sharks for long-range, stealthy surveillance and strike missions in Indo-Pacific waters starting next year. This contract includes delivery, maintenance, and ongoing development, marking a significant commitment by Australia to rapidly field advanced undersea capabilities amid rising regional tensions with China. The Ghost Shark program exemplifies a new defense procurement model, with Anduril co-developing and co-funding the vehicle alongside Australia, each contributing $50 million. The first prototype was delivered ahead of schedule in April 2024, and production is underway. Unlike the U.S. Navy’s Boeing
robotunmanned-underwater-vehicledefense-technologyautonomous-systemsmaritime-roboticsmilitary-dronesAnduril-Ghost-SharkBoeing teases US Navy stealth jet with 25% more range than F-35
Boeing has unveiled its F/A-XX, a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet designed to replace the US Navy’s aging F/A-18 Super Hornets in the 2030s. The F/A-XX is notable for its carrier-ready design, including features like canards for improved low-speed agility during carrier landings, and a maximum operating range exceeding 1,700 miles—about 25% greater than the current F-35C Lightning II. This extended range is particularly significant for operations in the Pacific, where US carriers face threats from China’s long-range missiles. The aircraft is envisioned as a “quarterback” for unmanned drones, leveraging advanced AI to manage sensor data and extend operational reach, potentially covering an area larger than North America with aerial refueling. Boeing’s design contrasts with its main competitor, Northrop Grumman, whose concept prioritizes extreme stealth without canards. Boeing’s approach balances stealth with enhanced maneuverability and carrier compatibility, accepting a
robotartificial-intelligenceunmanned-aircraftstealth-technologyaerospace-engineeringmilitary-dronesnaval-aviationThe ‘Wild West’ of AI: defense tech, ethics, and escalation
The article explores the rapid transformation of modern warfare driven by artificial intelligence (AI), electronic warfare (EW), and autonomous systems, as discussed by Will Ashford-Brown, Director of Strategic Insights at Heligan Group. Over the past five years, AI has become deeply integrated into military operations, from combat roles like drone piloting and target acquisition to support functions such as IT assistance within defense organizations. Despite these advances, Ashford-Brown emphasizes that human oversight remains crucial, especially in decisions involving lethal force, due to unresolved ethical concerns and a significant trust gap in fully autonomous systems. Ashford-Brown distinguishes between AI as a supporting technology and true autonomy, highlighting that robust AI is necessary to achieve fully autonomous military systems. Experimental AI-driven drones demonstrate potential in overcoming electronic jamming and operating in denied environments, but human intent and intervention continue to be central to their operation. Additionally, AI’s ability to rapidly analyze satellite imagery is revolutionizing battlefield intelligence, drastically shortening the kill chain from hours to minutes and
robotartificial-intelligenceautonomous-systemsdefense-technologymilitary-droneselectronic-warfareAI-ethicsChina builds artillery-fired drones to strike 6 miles away in seconds
China has successfully developed and tested the world’s first artillery-fired drones, capable of striking targets up to six miles away within seconds. These drones are launched from 155mm artillery shells and can withstand extreme launch forces exceeding 3,000 times their weight, a feat comparable to the pressure of 35 adult African elephants on a human body. After over a decade of skepticism regarding the survivability of electronic components under such intense acceleration, Chinese military scientists overcame these challenges through innovative engineering and government-backed research. The breakthrough centers on a chip-free, mechanically reliable pyrotechnic separation device developed by the Shaanxi Applied Physics and Chemistry Research Institute, the Chinese Air Force, and defense contractor Norinco. This system uses an eight-stage chain reaction involving explosives, flame channels, and pressure chambers to eject the drone mid-flight, remove protective panels, and prepare it for operation—all without electronic controls. Built with hardened stainless steel and a “maze channel” design to control flame propagation, the mechanism reliably functions under
robotdrone-technologymilitary-dronesartillery-launched-dronesmechanical-systemsexplosive-propulsiondefense-technologyEurope firm unveils 310-mile-range kamikaze drone for swarm attacks
European defense firm MBDA has unveiled the One Way Effector, a low-cost, kamikaze-style drone designed for long-range, swarm attack missions, at the Paris Air Show 2025. Developed since late 2024 in partnership with a drone manufacturer and a French automotive company, the drone features a jet engine, carries an 88-pound (40 kg) warhead, and can strike targets up to 310 miles (500 kilometers) away. MBDA plans to produce 1,000 units monthly, aiming for initial batch delivery by 2027, with hopes that the French military will adopt the system. The drone is intended to saturate enemy air defenses, forcing them to reveal their positions for subsequent neutralization by longer-range systems. The One Way Effector was developed with feedback from armed forces engaged in conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, reflecting lessons learned from recent drone warfare. MBDA emphasizes that the drone’s salvo firing capability is designed to deplete enemy resources and
robotdrone-technologymilitary-dronesunmanned-aerial-vehiclesdefense-technologyswarm-attacksjet-engine-dronesSuperpowers, sea drones, strategy: How the Indo-Pacific is re-arming
The article discusses escalating military tensions and strategic realignments in the Indo-Pacific region amid China's growing assertiveness, particularly around Taiwan. The United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines are deepening their military cooperation through a quadrilateral security group dubbed the "Squad," which functions as a Pacific counterpart to NATO. This bloc aims to enhance deterrence and maintain regional stability by synchronizing defense investments, expanding joint maritime patrols—especially within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone—and condemning China’s coercive actions in the East and South China Seas. The Squad’s efforts underscore a collective response to China’s increasing military buildup and aggressive maneuvers. Taiwan is also advancing its asymmetric defense capabilities by developing home-made kamikaze sea drones to counter potential Chinese aggression. U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Paparo highlighted that China’s recent military exercises near Taiwan are more than routine drills, describing them as rehearsals for possible conflict. He emphasized the urgency of accelerating technological and operational advancements, including artificial intelligence and hypersonic weapons, to meet modern threats swiftly. Paparo’s warnings reflect broader U.S. concerns about a potential Chinese attempt to seize Taiwan, possibly by 2027, and the need for rapid, innovative defense responses to maintain regional security.
robotmilitary-dronesdefense-technologyIndo-Pacific-securityautonomous-sea-dronesartificial-intelligencehypersonic-weapons