Aerial Drones & UAV Systems
UAVs, loitering munitions and the systems that fly them — from tactical quadcopters to long-endurance platforms.
Drone technology every few weeks: the Netherlands opens the Quick Response Drone Facility
Testing and fielding new drone technology every few weeks: this is why the Dutch Ministry of Defence has created the QRDF. Minister Ruben Brekelmans points to Ukraine and calls on the partners to develop a detection system against interceptor drones.
Military drones repaired in the field: Ukraine approves mobile drone workshops
The more military drones fly at the front, the more of them need maintenance. Ukraine's Ministry of Defence has therefore approved mobile container workshops – the full version is called “Nebokray 01”.
Military drones from China: “Jiutian SS-UAV” drone mothership to launch more than 100 small drones
Chinese state television has presented the “SS-UAV”, a 15-tonne drone mothership. Among military drones it stands out for its missile payload and more than 100 small drones – and could be intended as a first-strike weapon.
Loitering munition for the Bundesheer: Austrian defence ministry plans procurement
After attending a demonstration in Slovenia, Austria's defence ministry is working on introducing loitering munitions. According to the Bundesheer, the choice of effectors is still open – procurement is planned within the next few years.
Interceptor drone Blaze: Riga-based Origin Robotics unveils autonomous interceptor
With Blaze, Latvian start-up Origin Robotics aims to close gaps in ground-based air defence. The portable interceptor drone relies on radar, AI-supported computer vision and a fragmentation warhead.
Cruise missile S8000 Banderol: Ukrainian intelligence reveals details of Russia's low-cost weapon
For weeks, little more than the propulsion and speed of the new Russian system striking the Odesa region was known. Now the GUR has released data on the Banderol cruise missile's warhead, range, carriers and Western components.
Loitering munition in live test: Bundesheer delegation at demonstration in Slovenia
For two days, manufacturers showcased loitering munitions and the means to counter them at the Slovenian training area of Poček. Among the numerous military delegations was one from the Austrian Armed Forces (Bundesheer).
Quantum Systems funding round raises 160 million euros – Balderton Capital leads
Fresh capital for Quantum Systems: alongside existing backers, Hensoldt and Airbus Defence and Space are among the investors in the funding round. The money is to go into expansion, production, drone systems, software and AI.
Reconnaissance drones: Quantum Systems wins two tenders in Spain
A framework contract for 91 Vector systems for the army and marine infantry, plus Twister for the air force's special forces: Spain is relying on two reconnaissance drones from Quantum Systems at once.
Drone warfare as a points game: Ukraine rewards hits on Russian soldiers with points
Anyone who proves a drone hit on video collects points and exchanges them for equipment on the “Brave 1 Market”. The bonus system in Ukraine's drone warfare is constantly being adjusted – with measurable effects at the front.
Combat drones from China: DR Congo procures three Wing Loong II from Catic
Kinshasa is relying on air support from Beijing in the east of the country: three Wing Loong II are to help the armed forces fight the M23-RDF/AFC rebels. It is not the first delivery of Chinese combat drones to the DRC.
Jet-powered military drones: Royal Navy concludes two-year Banshee project
The Banshee military drones will not enter service, yet the Fleet Air Arm project team has met its goals. The experience of 700X Naval Air Squadron is to underpin future projects – the Malloy T-150 is next on the programme.
Drone start-up Hydra Drones: MBDA takes a minority stake
European defence group MBDA is investing a six-figure sum in British drone start-up Hydra Drones. Its heavy-lift transport drone, the Hydra 400, carries up to 400 kilograms, and a complete prototype is due later this year.