The deal in question is the $990-million contract awarded to AeroVironment on August 27 for an “organic, stand-off solution” capable of neutralizing hostile tanks, armored vehicles, and personnel targets.

Although the grounds for the petition have not yet been disclosed, the protest will halt production of the loitering munitions while the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) reviews the case.

An official decision is expected to be made within 100 calendar days as required by law.

If successful, Mistral’s protest could force the US Army to re-open a competition.

The Agreement

On August 28, AeroVironment confirmed it had entered a five-year agreement with the US Army to support its Lethal Unmanned Systems (LUS) requirement by supplying an undisclosed number of Switchblade attack drones.

The systems will be used by dismounted infantry formations to defend against the threats of enemy armored assets.

The company stated that its Switchblade munitions will enhance soldier lethality and give operators the ability to track and engage moving, non-line-of-sight targets.

“AV (AeroVironment) is proud to have been selected to provide Switchblade for this critical and urgent army requirement,” Senior VP Brett Hush noted.

Deliveries of the Switchblade systems were originally scheduled to begin in months, but the protest may delay them until next year.

‘Well Positioned’

The Switchblade is a tube-launched, precision-guided munition that is flown like a drone and detonates upon contact with the target.

It can stay airborne for up to 20 minutes to monitor the surroundings and search for a target.

Prior to Mistral’s protest, AeroVironment said that its Switchblade munitions offer “unmatched maturity and effectiveness” for various missions.

Additionally, the company affirmed it is well positioned to meet the army’s emerging needs by leveraging robust production capability and supply chain capacity.

“This contract further solidifies AV’s role as a leading provider of innovative unmanned solutions,” AeroVironment noted. “The company remains committed to supporting US Army missions by delivering advanced technology that ensures operational superiority”

The post Mistral Challenges US Army’s $990M Loitering Munition Deal With AeroVironment appeared first on The Defense Post.

Named the Stationary and Mobile UAS Reveal and Intercept, the system combines beyond-visual-line-of-sight communication with advanced command-and-control capabilities to effectively detect, track, and counter drone swarms.

It integrates cutting-edge components, such as radars, radio frequency defeat capabilities, and AI-driven detectors for enhanced threat monitoring.

The weapon can be mounted on vehicles or deployed in fixed positions to protect high-value assets.

According to Honeywell electronic warfare director Norm Balchunas, the system can detect and neutralize drones while traveling at speeds reaching 70 miles (112 kilometers) per hour.

That capability is significant, he noted, because detecting a low, slow drone that suddenly accelerates poses a considerable challenge.

‘Multi-Layered Defensive Capabilities’

Unlike other counter-UAS solutions, the Stationary and Mobile UAS Reveal and Intercept system features multi-layered defensive capabilities to address multiple threats simultaneously.

It can disable drones by launching a kinetic interceptor, utilizing a directed energy weapon, or employing a soft kill method to disrupt their radio frequency.

AI also plays a crucial role in the system, enabling rapid threat detection in crowded environments and accelerating human operators’ decision-making.

“[The operators] got to make a decision. What target path is that? What effector should I use? Is this authorized within my rules of engagement?” Balchunas said. “Using AI, I can implement my rules of engagement so they’re automated.”

Honeywell is set to demonstrate the ground-breaking system to the US Air Force in January 2025.

The post Honeywell Unveils AI-Enabled System for Countering Drone Swarms appeared first on The Defense Post.

Since invading in February 2022, Moscow has carried out near daily drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, including targeting areas close to Ukraine’s western borders with EU and NATO members.

Romania and Latvia said earlier this month that Russian drones and missiles flew through their airspace during an overnight attack on Ukraine.

Ministers from nine countries on NATO’s eastern flank expressed their “profound concern over the repeated incursions” into allied airspace by “Russian drones and missiles”, and urged “a collective answer within NATO.”

They also called on the alliance to help “boost our capabilities of detecting, identifying and, if necessary, engaging low and slow flying objects.”

“A robust and coordinated response on an allied level is needed, as well as the swift implementation of NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence rotational model,” Romanian Defense Minister Angel Tilvar told reporters after a meeting of the defence ministers in Bucharest.

The group — the so-called “Bucharest Nine” — consists of Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga earlier on Wednesday asked Kyiv’s neighbors to explore the possibility of shooting down Russian missiles and drones.

Kicking off a regional tour in Romania, he described Russia’s aerial attacks as a “global threat.”

Romania scrambled two F-16 fighter jets to monitor a Russian drone that flew across its airspace towards Ukraine earlier this month, an incident that has reignited a discussion over whether the country should intercept stray Russian drones.

The current legal framework prevents such engagements during peacetime. Though officials have stressed any drones that intentionally target Romanian territory will be shot down.

Several drone fragments have also been found in Romania throughout the war.

NATO has said it had no indication any of the incidents were an “intentional attack” by Russia against alliance states.

The post NATO Members Call for Response to Stray Russian Drones appeared first on The Defense Post.

More than 20 local drone manufacturers reportedly participated in the test, showcasing cutting-edge solutions as part of the Him-Drone-A-Thon 2 event, launched in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

The trial took place at a mountain pass in Ladakh, which stands at 17,300 feet (5,250 meters), one of the highest in the world.

#AtmanirbharBharat

HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is being organised at Wari La Pass, Ladakh on 17-18 September 2024 at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet. The event offers an exclusive platform for over 20 drone manufacturers to showcase a spectrum of drone solutions designed for… pic.twitter.com/jeD2vBZVc0

— @firefurycorps_IA (@firefurycorps) September 17, 2024

According to reports, the participating drones performed surveillance, logistics, swarming, and first-person view operations, demonstrating their ability to withstand extreme conditions along India’s mountainous borders.

“Drone technology is becoming indispensable in modern warfare, and we are leveraging its potential to not only secure our borders but also position India as a global leader in this field,” an army official noted.

The Indian Army did not disclose the specific drones or manufacturers involved in the demonstration.

‘Year of Technology Absorption’

India has declared 2024 as a “Year of Technology Absorption,” streamlining the development, acquisition, and integration of emerging technologies into legacy systems.

The country seeks to employ autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology to prepare for modern warfare.

New Delhi currently faces increasing tensions with China and Pakistan, stemming from territorial disputes and geopolitical rivalries.

The Him-Drone-A-Thon 2 event provided the Indian Army with an opportunity to identify promising technological solutions, which could be procured to aid border operations.

Its collaboration with the FICCI also fostered a culture of homegrown technological advancement, part of the country’s “Make in India” initiative.

“HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is a forward-looking initiative that reflects the army’s recognition of the immense potential for drones to enhance operational capabilities in difficult terrains,” an army spokesperson said.

The post Indian Army Tests Domestic Drones for High-Altitude Operations appeared first on The Defense Post.

“Yesterday, an MQ-9 did crash in the vicinity of Yemen. That is being investigated, but I don’t have any additional details to share,” Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder told journalists.

The Houthis claimed Tuesday that they had shot down three MQ-9s over the past week — a figure Ryder described as “too high.”

The Pentagon spokesman said he could not provide a specific number for security reasons, but that the Houthis’ figure “is not accurate.”

The latest drone crash came after the Pentagon confirmed in February that another MQ-9 — which can be used for both reconnaissance and strikes — went down off the Yemeni coast after apparently being struck by a Houthi missile.

The Houthis — who are opposed to government forces in Yemen and are one of several militant groups arrayed against Israel — began attacking shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in November.

They say they are attacking Israel-linked vessels in support of Palestinians in Gaza, which has been ravaged by the Israel-Hamas war, but ships from multiple countries that have no ties to the conflict have been targeted.

The post US MQ-9 Drone Crashes Near Yemen: Pentagon appeared first on The Defense Post.

Anduril Industries and Performance Drone Works have each received 10-year contracts to provide their Ghost X and C-100 drones, respectively, to meet the service’s ISTAR requirements.

These drones will support Brigade Combat Teams in various environmental conditions.

Program Executive Officer Brig. Gen. David Phillips said the two companies were selected following thorough evaluations and flight demonstrations over a five-month period.

US Army acquisition assistant secretary Douglas Bush also noted that the milestone is an example of the service’s ability to rapidly transition from concept to contract, quickly delivering the new technology to soldiers.

“This shows [that] the acquisition system can move at the pace needed to support the Army, especially in rapidly emerging technology areas like small uncrewed aircraft systems (s-UAS),” he expressed.

Chosen Solutions

Unveiled in 2023, Anduril’s Ghost X is an expeditionary s-UAS purpose-built for reconnaissance and force protection.

It has a dual battery for an extended flight time of 75 minutes and an increased payload capacity of 9 kilograms (20 pounds).

Thanks to its long-range communications suite, the drone can fly up to 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away from the operator.

The C-100, meanwhile, is a heavy-lift, man-packable quadcopter that boasts a flight endurance of 74 minutes and a range of more than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

It also has a payload capacity of 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms).

According to Performance Drone Works, the C-100 is aligned with dynamic military targeting methodology and supports tactical intelligence missions.

The post US Army Selects Two Firms for Company-Level ISTAR Drone Program appeared first on The Defense Post.

The Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System (ATLAS) is built for on and off-road maneuvers to increase a force’s lethality and complement their corresponding crewed systems, including infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks “at lower costs.”

The platform’s design supports future configurations and upgrades to address users’ requirements against modern threats.

BAE noted that the ATLAS’ “high levels of autonomy” allows the vehicle to plan navigation, avoid obstacles, and process tactical decisions in addition to its self-drive function.

“We’ve developed the ATLAS vehicle to give soldiers the advantage on the modern battlefield,” BAE Systems Australia Defence Delivery Managing Director Andrew Gresham explained.

“This has resulted in an autonomous platform that will deliver the dull, dirty and dangerous tasks expected in a combat environment. It will help the soldier outpace, out-manoeuvre and out-think conventional and unconventional threats.”

“We have proven expertise in autonomous technologies, built on more than 30 years of complex autonomous projects. We’re excited that this is the first [unmanned ground vehicle] of its kind to be developed in Australia and look forward to working with our industry partners to deliver this capability for our customers.” 

BAE Systems ATLAS

The ATLAS has chassis and hull components based on the Supacat HMT family of tactical vehicles.

Its armor is customizable depending on the customer’s overall mass specifications, while its internal suite incorporates sensors, thermal imaging devices, passive electronic warfare, and cameras with stereo vision.

The system’s compartments can transport “up to several tonnes” of payload such as ammunition, fuel, rations, water, and other tactical equipment.

The ATLAS has an automated medium-caliber turret with a firing range of up to 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) and an M242 Bushmaster 25-millimeter chain gun, which is also found in Light Armored Vehicles, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and naval mounts.

It is powered by a Cummins ISB six-cylinder, 6.7-liter engine, and an Allison 3000 automatic transmission.

The post BAE Systems Australia Debuts Next-Gen 8×8 Unmanned Combat Vehicle appeared first on The Defense Post.

Warplanes from other NATO members have patrolled their skies over the Baltic states since they joined the military alliance in 2004 as the three former Soviet republics do not have the necessary aircraft.

NATO aircraft “must not only patrol but also, if necessary, if possible destroy the drones,” Defense Minister Laurynas Kasciunas told reporters in Lithuanian capital Vilnius.

He added the decision-making process should be shortened to make this possible.

His comments follow a Russian drone crashing in Latvia on Saturday. Latvia’s armed forces said it was an Iranian-design Shahed drone equipped with explosives.

On Tuesday, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics said his country was discussing the problem of Russian drones with its allies.

“We are raising the issue with our NATO partners about protocols for interception of drones, calling for the allied air fighters to be used immediately after such a drone has been seen approaching our borders,” Rinkevics said.

Baltic officials also urged NATO to step up plans to deploy ground-based air defenses along the bloc’s eastern border.

NATO countries lack sufficient ground-based air defense systems, but agreed last year to short-term deployments to dissuade Russia.

In April, the Netherlands deployed Patriot missile systems for exercises in Lithuania, but the Baltic countries want air defense systems deployed on a permanent basis in the region.

At the beginning of September, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said Warsaw should have the right to down Russian missiles threatening its territory in Ukrainian airspace.

The post NATO Should Down Russian Drones in Baltics: Lithuania appeared first on The Defense Post.

Dubbed the “Dragon Drone,” the low-flying UAS disperses a mixture of aluminum powder and iron oxide, which burns at an intense 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,200 degrees Celsius).

The mixture can easily burn through almost anything, including trees and vegetation that typically provide cover to Russian troops.

This capability enables Ukrainian troops to expose enemy positions and neutralize them more effectively.

A video shared by the Ukrainian defense ministry shows the drone releasing hot thermite onto wooded terrain, creating a fiery effect that mimics dragon’s breath.

“Strike drones are our wings of vengeance, bringing fire straight from the sky!” Kyiv’s 60th Mechanized Brigade wrote on X. “They become a real threat to the enemy, burning his positions with an accuracy that no other weapon can achieve.”

A "dragon drone" in the Kharkiv direction.

: 42nd Mechanized Brigade pic.twitter.com/4M1qAJdx3o

— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 4, 2024

‘More Psychological Than Physical’

Former British Army officer and current defense analyst Nicholas Drummond noted that while the drone is “quite innovative,” its primary impact may be more psychological than physical.

With its promising capabilities, the platform can create fear among Russian soldiers who rely on bush for cover.

This approach can also give enemy forces another reason to be wary of Ukrainian drones, though Drummond believes it will still not change the course of the war.

“I understand that Ukraine only possesses a limited capacity to deliver a thermite effect, so this is a niche capability rather than a new mainstream weapon,” he told CNN. “But I would not have liked to have been on the receiving end.”

Is It Legal?

The mixture coming from the “Dragon Drone” could be considered an incendiary weapon, something used by Germany during the First World War.

Similar to napalm and white phosphorus, use of the weapon is discouraged because it can cause massive destruction and environmental damage.

The fires it produces are hard to contain and can affect the civilian population if not controlled or regulated.

Under international law, direct use of thermite on civilian targets or in populated areas is prohibited due to its severe impact on human health.

UK-based anti-war organization Action on Armed Violence said Kyiv only uses the incendiary weapon on military targets.

The post Ukraine Unveils New Drone That Fires Molten Metal, Ignites Hidden Targets appeared first on The Defense Post.

Screened by the government’s defense innovations arm Brave1, the robotic systems will serve as platforms to move military equipment and injured personnel from the battlefield and into safe areas.

A FoxTac is controlled by a remote device that supports up to 700 meters (2,297 feet) of connectivity.

The four-wheel vehicle drives with minimal sound and measures approximately 40 centimeters (15.7 inches) high, enabling inconspicuous operation across fields with vegetation, off-road, and other complex terrain.

Ukraine’s former Deputy Prime Minister and Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov noted in a Telegram update last February that the FoxTac’s power reserve can cover up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

“There are no universal means and methods of evacuation,” Ukraine’s defense agency said in a recent press release.

“Each time, combat medics choose the transport and method of evacuation depending on the current circumstances: the nature of the combat situation, the terrain, the level of camouflage, the number of wounded and the severity of injuries received by servicemen.”

“Thanks to the applied design solutions, “FOXTAC” can be transferred from transport to working position in a matter of minutes. It can carry cargo weighing up to one and a half hundredweight, that is, a wounded soldier in full combat gear, [and] ammunition to the position.”

Transporter Drones for Modern Warfare

In May, the Ukrainian Strategic Industries Ministry completed an evaluation of the FoxTac on safe medical evacuations.

When deployed, the system and additional stretchers manufactured by other developers carried many patients and accomplished long transport timelines as expected with the given scenarios.

Ukrainian Armed Forces Medical Service Lt. Col. Ihor Shcherbakov explained the importance of robotic assets for the safety and readiness of warfighters during the event.

“For the Medical Forces Command, as for any commander, saving the lives of our servicemen is a key priority,” Shcherbakov remarked.

“The realities of modern warfare require us to develop new progressive, technological solutions for medical evacuation. The enemy is using modern deadly weapons against us. The front line is heterogeneous. There are areas with lots of sand, water and forest. Sometimes the defence is carried out in difficult urban conditions.”

“That is why the methods of medical evacuation of the wounded used in previous wars (World War II, Soviet-Afghan War, Chechen Wars) are not effective enough in our realities. Today, robotic systems are the solution that can save the life of a wounded person, reduce evacuation time and maintain the combat capability of a unit under any conditions.”

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