Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force requires extensive training for pilots and reconnaissance systems officers to operate the SR-71 Blackbird, capable of flying above Mach 3 and 80,000 feet. This training includes classroom instruction, simulator practice, and high-altitude survival techniques. The transition to qualified crew member can take about a year, emphasizing the need for prior military aviation experience and specialized skills.

The AUSA conference in Washington, D.C. showcased a wide array of military equipment, including vehicle-mounted counter-drone systems and tactical trucks. Notable displays included Diehl Defense's Cicada counter-drone munition and AeroVironment's Bullfrog M240 autonomous weapon system. GM Defense introduced the Autonomous ISV-Utility, while Kratos Defense presented the Tactical Firejet drone. The event highlighted advancements in military technology and defense capabilities.

U.S. Army Special Operations Command tested a Performance Drone Works quadcopter equipped with a Leonardo DRS laser designator for precision mortar targeting at Dugway, Utah, on October 14, 2023. The system successfully engaged targets beyond the standard range of a 120 mm mortar, demonstrating enhanced targeting capabilities. This event was part of the Iron Sting Precision Mortar Validation Event.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced plans to scale autonomous weapons and establish the Autonomous Warfare Command (AUTOWARCOM) during the AUSA conference in Washington. The Pentagon aims to invest nearly $55 billion in autonomous warfare initiatives, with the Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for autonomy transitioning to Project Agincourt. The Defense Autonomous Working Group (DAWG) is being integrated into a new Task Force to enhance capabilities in this area.

Forterra and Hypercraft unveiled an autonomous vehicle designed for high-risk military missions at the Association of the U.S. Army Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. The Razorback vehicle, equipped with Forterra's AutoDrive software, can carry various weapons and has a range of 500 miles. The Mobile Autonomous Uncrewed Lanemaker (MAUL) was demonstrated at Fort Bragg, successfully clearing mines while defending against drone attacks. This initiative aims to reduce risks to soldiers during operations.

The 7th Army Training Command in Hohenfels, Germany, reported a significant increase in the use of unmanned aerial systems during training exercises, rising from 400 to nearly 2,000. This includes over 1,000 consumable munitions. U.S. units are now mandated to have prior experience with drones, and Ukrainian units are participating in training to enhance effectiveness. The training centers are adapting to include diverse environments and threats, particularly in the Pacific theater.

The U.S. Air Force received over 30 proposals for flight tests of the AI-controlled X-62 VISTA during a symposium at Edwards Air Force Base in August 2023. The event attracted over 80 participants from various sectors, highlighting significant interest in the aircraft. The X-62, a modified F-16D, is currently undergoing upgrades to enhance its capabilities for future testing alongside other autonomous systems.

General George S. Patton developed the U.S. Army's tank corps and led significant tank exercises in the 1940s. He emphasized the independent use of tanks in warfare, which shaped U.S. armored strategies during World War II. Patton's contributions to tank warfare began in World War I and continued to influence military tactics until his death in 1945.

WingXpand unveiled the xPAIR, a removable control unit for drones and ground vehicles, on October 13, 2023, in Schaumburg, Illinois. This system allows for multi-domain operations across air, land, and water, utilizing a shared AI library and user interface. The technology is reportedly being adopted by the U.S. Department of War and has been demonstrated with U.S. Special Forces.

Leonardo DRS, Inc. was awarded a $500 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract by JIATF-401 on October 14, 2026, to enhance counter UAS capabilities. The contract focuses on the rapid delivery of integrated sensing technologies for force protection and low-altitude air defense missions. DRS aims to provide operationally relevant capabilities to meet evolving threats.

The U.S. Army expanded its drone marketplace to include 33 nations during a signing ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday. This initiative aims to facilitate rapid acquisition of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and has processed $800 million in transactions since its launch. The Army also awarded $7 billion in contracts for counter-drone systems through this marketplace, responding to increasing drone threats.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will discuss the future of autonomous warfare at the AUSA Annual Meeting on October 14, 2026, at 10 a.m. EST in Washington, D.C. The panel, titled 'Project Agincourt: Autonomous Warfare,' will include senior defense officials examining the military's approach to autonomous systems. This event highlights the Pentagon's increasing emphasis on integrating autonomous capabilities into military operations.

The Pentagon is working to produce 100,000 drones next year to enhance the U.S. drone industrial base. It plans to consume these drones at scale for training and operational readiness, emphasizing the need for industry to adapt quickly to technological changes. Improved collaboration between vendors and operators has been noted during recent exercises, highlighting the importance of integrating manufacturing with military operations.

Skapion unveiled the world's first Native Counter-Swarm defense system in Washington, D.C. on October 14, 2026. This advanced air-defense capability is designed to detect and defeat large-scale drone swarm attacks, engaging over 100 targets simultaneously with a high interception rate. The system is supported by a $36 million funding round to enhance its development and validation.

The U.S. Marine Corps ordered SAFE MULE loaders from S.A.F.E. Structure Designs for logistics support, announced on October 13, 2023. The loaders can lift 4,500 kg air cargo pallets and fit inside MV-22 Ospreys. This initial order includes operator training and technical support, with plans for a larger purchase in 2027.

Leonardo DRS won a $500 million contract to supply counter-drone radar systems to the U.S. Department of War's Joint Interagency Task Force 401 on October 14, 2023. This contract enables the company to compete for task orders related to integrated counter-drone sensing for force protection and low-altitude air defense. The award is part of efforts to enhance military capabilities against emerging drone threats.

The U.S. Army is creating opportunities for additional vendors to compete for the Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC) Increment 2 launcher, allowing them to demonstrate their capabilities. This initiative, described by Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano, aims to enhance competition alongside existing contracts with Lockheed Martin and Boeing-Anduril. A new competition is set for the fourth quarter of 2027 as the Pentagon seeks to increase munition production and address budgetary challenges.

Uvision showcased its eight-canister launcher for HERO 120 loitering munitions at the AUSA annual meeting in Washington on October 13, 2023. The launcher is designed for remote operation and integrates with the AI-enabled CORTEX mission management software. It can be deployed in various configurations and is aimed at enhancing strike capabilities for military applications.

Oshkosh Defense has begun production of the first DXPV prototype for the Netherlands Ministry of Defence. This announcement was made today in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, highlighting the company's commitment to providing advanced military vehicles.

The U.S. Navy is increasing its stock of spare parts for Aegis radars and fire-control systems, ordering $15.1 million worth from Raytheon. This effort supports the goal of maintaining 75 mission-capable ships. The contract covers 419 requirements across 46 parts, with work primarily conducted in Andover, Massachusetts, and deliveries expected through December 2034.