Autonomy

Palladyne AI has been awarded two U.S. Army contracts to develop and validate its SwarmOS autonomy and Gremlin-X mini-bomber UAV. The contracts will focus on researching and operationally validating the technologies with warfighters.

The US Air Force has selected Anduril for the production phase of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, moving the FQ-44 semi-autonomous fighter aircraft into serial production. This marks a significant milestone for the program. The FQ-44 Fury is a key component of the Air Force's future combat plans.

A robotic combat vehicle with an autonomous laser weapon system designed to shoot down drones was displayed at a Detroit defense show. The system is being developed by Aurelius Systems, a defense technology company. This technology aims to counter drone threats using directed energy.

Thales is developing an armed and autonomous version of the Schiebel Camcopter S-301 rotary-wing uncrewed air vehicle, targeting multiple nations with the capability. The company sees a significant global sales opportunity for the platform, which can be used for multiple naval or land missions.

The US Air Force has awarded a production contract for its Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which aims to develop autonomous fighter jets that can team up with crewed jets. This program is a significant step forward in the development of autonomous military aircraft. The contract marks the beginning of production for these advanced fighter jets.

The US Army has awarded Palladyne AI two contracts to test its autonomous drone-control software, enabling one soldier to control multiple drones. This technology aims to enhance the Army's drone operations and improve situational awareness. The contracts mark a significant step in the Army's efforts to integrate autonomous systems into its operations.

Teledyne FLIR Defense has introduced the Black Recon, a micro-drone system that can be autonomously launched from military vehicles and fixed installations for continuous reconnaissance. The system is designed for vehicle-based reconnaissance missions, providing untethered surveillance capabilities. This technology enhances the ability of military forces to gather intelligence in various environments.

The US Air Force has selected Anduril Industries' FQ-44 for production under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, a Pentagon effort to develop semi-autonomous fighter-type drones. The FQ-44, developed as the YFQ-44A prototype, will fly alongside crewed jets like the F-35. The decision was made months ahead of the program's original schedule.

France has ordered the Origin Robotics BLAZE autonomous interceptor drone system for counter-drone missions. The order follows an evaluation by the DGA. The BLAZE system will be used to intercept and neutralize enemy drones.

The Pentagon's $350 billion defense reconciliation bill is facing uncertainty due to wavering support from key members of Congress. If the bill fails, the Pentagon may have to make hard choices between funding high-end weapons and low-cost drones and other autonomous programs. The budget backup plans would prioritize certain programs over others, potentially cutting 'traditional weapons' in favor of drones.

The US Air Force has awarded production contracts to General Atomics and Anduril for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, with plans to field around 1,000 combat-capable aircraft. The contracts include the development of mission autonomy software, with Anduril, Shield AI, and Collins Aerospace competing to be the primary provider. The program aims to develop semi-autonomous drones that can operate alongside manned aircraft.

The US military demonstrated autonomous maritime systems during Exercise Salaknib 2026, showcasing their ability to enhance security in contested environments. The exercise was conducted in partnership with the Philippine Army and industry representatives. Autonomous systems can protect critical transportation operations

Poland is considering joining the X-BAT autonomous vertical-takeoff fighter program as it plans to acquire up to 32 new fighter jets. The move is part of the country's efforts to modernize its military capabilities. The X-BAT program offers advanced autonomous technology for future combat operations.

The abandonment of plans for a Franco-German fighter jet has sent a disastrous signal, and Europe needs to fast-track its strategic independence in a volatile world. Collaboration is key to achieving strategic autonomy.

Aurelius Systems has completed live testing of its Archimedes autonomous directed-energy system, designed to counter low-cost drones at a lower cost. The system is being trialed for the Pentagon. The Archimedes laser weapon system aims to provide an effective solution for drone threats.

Quantum Systems and Daimler Truck are developing autonomous convoy technology for the German military's logistics. The project aims to create unmanned convoy solutions for military logistics, commissioned by the German Armed Forces. Testing is set to follow development.

A Spanish defense technology company has debuted an unmanned surface vessel at Eurosatory 2026, showcasing its capabilities in speed, payload capacity, and drone launch and recovery. The vessel can also jam enemy electronics and intercept hostile unmanned aircraft. The autonomous catamaran combines the features of a fast patrol boat and a logistics ship.

A new mini drone system weighing under 450 grams can sustain autonomous surveillance even when GPS signals are jammed, enhancing soldier safety and situational awareness. This technology allows armies to maintain constant awareness of their surroundings while keeping soldiers protected. The system's ability to operate without GPS enables it to function in environments where signal disruption is a concern.

US and European firms Shield AI and Destinus have completed a flight test exercise demonstrating autonomous collaborative strike capabilities for future cruise missiles. The test showcases the potential for autonomous systems to enhance missile technology. This development could lead to more advanced and effective cruise missiles.

Boston Dynamics' Atlas robot is reportedly approaching the autonomy needed for industrial deployment, showing signs of general intelligence for factory work. This development could have significant implications for various industries, including defense. Atlas is a humanoid robot designed for search and rescue applications, but its potential uses extend to other areas, such as manufacturing and logistics.

Senator Ruben Gallego is seeking information on the Pentagon's plan to revise its policy for lethal autonomous weapons systems, specifically regarding mitigation of unintended harm to Americans and allies. The Arizona Democrat wants Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to disclose details on the department's approach. The revision is being undertaken in a rapid manner, prompting concerns about potential risks.

Shield AI is showcasing its runway-free autonomous fighter jet, X-BAT, at Eurosatory 2026, a major international defence and security exhibition in Paris. The company has been supplying AI piloting software to the US military since 2019. X-BAT is a significant development in autonomous military technology.

Ukraine is utilizing AI-powered interceptors to neutralize Russian drones, leveraging autonomous technologies trained on vast amounts of wartime data. This approach showcases Ukraine's innovative use of technology in combat. The effectiveness of these interceptors highlights the strategic importance of AI in modern warfare.

The era of digital dangers has transitioned to one of complete systemic vulnerability, with cyber threats becoming persistent and sophisticated. Hackers are utilizing autonomous adversaries, marking a new level of complexity in cyber attacks. This shift highlights the need for advanced AI-powered cyber defense strategies.