U.S. Army evaluates SlingWorks drone strike system

The United States Army conducted a field demonstration of Elbit America’s SlingWorks launched effects system during the CDF CFWE 26 exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground, according to a statement released Friday by the Aviation Future Capability Directorate.

The test involved collaboration between the SlingWorks development team and soldiers from the 1st Armored Division to evaluate the system’s ability to deliver targeting data and precision strike capability using existing Army networks.

According to the Aviation Future Capability Directorate, the SlingWorks system was tested during the CDF CFWE 26 exercise at the Arizona test range operated by the U.S. Army. The event focused on evaluating the ability of the system to deliver engagement-quality data by leveraging existing Army network infrastructure.

During the exercise, the system demonstrated its capacity to detect and classify targets at extended ranges using autonomous recognition capabilities.

“Accelerated Sensor-to-Shooter Linkages: The platform’s ATR and autonomy demonstrated the ability to tip and cue other assets, as well as detect, classify, and prosecute targets at extended ranges. This allows tactical assets to act on targeting data independently, shortening the kill chain,” the statement said.

The demonstration also included the use of the SkyStriker loitering munition integrated into the SlingWorks architecture.

“Organic Medium-Range Lethality: The SkyStriker loitering munition provided Soldiers with a precision fires capability, enhancing lethality at lower echelons,” the statement said.

Loitering munitions, also known as kamikaze drones, such as the SkyStriker, are designed to remain airborne while searching for targets before striking them with precision. These systems combine surveillance and attack capabilities in a single platform, allowing operators to identify and engage targets without relying on separate reconnaissance and strike assets.

During the experiment, the SlingWorks platform worked within the Army’s existing digital command networks to pass targeting data between sensors and weapons. This type of integration is intended to allow multiple battlefield systems to share information in real time.

The system’s autonomy functions include automated target recognition technology capable of identifying potential threats and providing targeting cues to other platforms. Such capabilities can help reduce the time required for soldiers to identify targets and coordinate strikes.

In addition to operational capabilities, the demonstration also addressed industrial readiness and production capacity.

“Industrial Base Readiness: The vendor also presented evidence of their ability to produce and scale the system, addressing the Army’s need for sufficient magazine depth in a contested logistics environment,” the statement said.

Ensuring adequate production capacity for loitering munitions and other unmanned systems has become an increasing priority for military planners. Modern conflicts have demonstrated the importance of maintaining large inventories of precision weapons and autonomous systems.

The CDF CFWE 26 event brought together Army units, researchers, and industry partners to test emerging technologies under operational conditions. Exercises at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground often serve as opportunities to evaluate new equipment before potential integration into operational units.

The Aviation Future Capability Directorate oversees research and development initiatives related to future Army aviation and unmanned systems. Its work includes evaluating new technologies that can improve battlefield awareness, long-range targeting, and autonomous operations.