Sponsored by EOS
www.eos-aus.com
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03 Mar 26. Neros Technologies – a leading drone manufacturer building autonomous First Person View (FPV) UAVs made entirely with secure, allied components – has announced the establishment of Neros Technologies UK Ltd with a new headquarters in the Swindon area with an initial investment of up to £10m over a five-year period. This comes following the establishment of Neros UA in Ukraine, expanding their onshore support for Western forces.
The announcement follows Neros establishing a UK presence through the company’s contribution of FPV trials and delivering drones to the Ministry of Defence via the International Drone Capability Coalition. With the establishment of Neros Technologies UK, the company is looking to manufacture drones here in the UK for our Armed Forces and European allies – investing in sovereign British capability, workforce development, and national security.
Founded in 2023, Neros has grown rapidly, having already delivered thousands of systems to Ukraine and the U.S. Department of War. Neros is dedicated to ensuring the West maintains an asymmetric advantage over its adversaries by manufacturing advanced FPV systems at scale and will now strengthen UK supply chain resilience with the new Swindon hub.
Neros’ flagship system, Archer, is already widely adopted across NATO forces and has become the NATO standard for strike UAVs in its class, with all critical components from a China-free supply chain. Archer was the first strike FPV platform to be included on the US Department of War’s Blue UAS List, a process that rigorously inspects every hardware and software component for security vulnerabilities and foreign-sourced risks. Archer passed with flying colours.
Hugo Crawford, Europe Growth Lead at Neros, said: “As a leading manufacturer driving the shift to sovereign drone capability for allied forces, the UK has always been a critical hub for Neros. The establishment of Neros UK and opening our headquarters in a key drone manufacturing hub is a milestone as we look to bring our world-leading intellectual property and operational infrastructure to UK and allied forces around the world.”
Will Stone MP, Member of Parliament for Swindon North, said: “It is outstanding to have Neros Technologies UK join the growing number of UAV manufacturing companies in Swindon. I am proud to be supporting them as they expand into the UK with their leading capabilities that I believe are crucial for supporting the next generation of warfare and supporting jobs here in Swindon. With five companies confirmed and more in the pipeline, it is undeniable that Swindon is now a major player in drone manufacturing.”
05 Mar 26. Korea Freezes Drone Procurement Over Performance Concerns. South Korea’s defence ministry has temporarily suspended spending on a planned purchase of additional small reconnaissance drones after controversy over their performance. Data submitted by the Drone Operations Command to Rep. Boo Seung-chan of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea shows the unit earmarked 1.34 bn won ($914,000) this year to acquire 24 drones. The model, developed domestically by the Agency for Defence Development in 2023, was produced under an in-house initiative focused on rapid, low-cost manufacturing. Within six months, 100 units were built at about 30 m won ($2,000) each.
The same drone type was deployed to Pyongyang in October 2024 during a controversial infiltration mission under then-president Yoon Suk Yeol, who pursued a hard-line policy toward North Korea. However, the platform has drawn sustained criticism for operational weaknesses, including loud flight noise, difficulty tracking its position and a large radar cross-section that increases the risk of detection.
In internal testing, the Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) flagged these shortcomings, warning that detectability and noise levels undermined its reconnaissance value. Last year, the command allocated 534 m won ($365,000) for similar purchases but withdrew the request after DAPA called for improvements. Despite those concerns remaining unresolved, a larger budget was set aside this year.
Boo urged a complete halt to further acquisitions and called for a comprehensive review of drone assets introduced under the previous administration. After media scrutiny, the ministry said it would suspend the budget and reassess the project, reallocating funds to equipment that better meets operational needs. (Source: UAS VISION/Korea Times)
05 Mar 26. Danish Heavy Drone Armed with Twin .50 Cal Gun. Danish firm Hecto Drone unveiled the HD-606 heavy unmanned aerial system at Enforce Tac 2026 in Germany, introducing a twin-mounted .50-caliber DCR-50 weapon system to the multi-rotor segment. The platform represents a shift in tactical drone design, bringing helicopter-class direct-fire capability into a heavy-lift unmanned format suited for close combat and force-protection missions.
According to Army Recognition analysis, the HD-606 is the first operational heavy multi-rotor drone fielding stabilized twin .50-caliber firepower with integrated recoil mitigation. While other drones have carried light machine guns or rockets, none have been purpose-built around a twin .50-cal configuration, placing the system between loitering munitions and manned attack helicopters in capability.
The DCR-50, developed with Denmark’s Small Arms Industries (SAI), consists of two semi-automatic .50-caliber machine guns in a twin mount. Weighing 23.6 kg including its electric interface, it feeds from two 10-round magazines and fires at 25 rounds per minute, emphasizing controlled, deliberate engagement rather than area suppression. A recoiling reload mechanism reduces forces transmitted to the airframe, addressing a longstanding barrier to mounting large-caliber weapons on rotary UAS platforms.
Designed for endurance and payload flexibility, the HD-606 can carry 50 kg for 30 minutes or 25 kg for more than three hours. With a top speed of 20 m/s (72 km/h), it supports armed overwatch, anti-vehicle interdiction, and high-value asset protection. Its 48 V architecture uses six motors and dual generators delivering 14,000 W for redundancy, supplemented by a 10 Ah battery for limited standalone flight.
Van-transportable and built from carbon fiber for operations between −20 °C and +40 °C, the HD-606 reflects a broader trend toward decentralizing heavy precision firepower onto reusable unmanned platforms. (Source: UAS VISION/Army Recognition)
02 Mar 26. Teledyne FLIR Defense, a global leader in intelligent sensing and unmanned systems, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE: TDY), announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with STORM Adapt Group during the EnforceTac 2026 exhibition.
The agreement establishes a collaborative framework to explore the integration of Teledyne FLIR’s unmanned aerial system (UAS) platforms with STORM’s Rapid Adapt and Deploy System (RADS), a modular, vehicle‑mounted system designed to support advanced drone operations.
Under the MoU, the companies will assess technical integration paths for Teledyne FLIR’s SkyCarrier™ multi-mission quadcopter UAS and Black Recon™ micro‑UAS leveraging the RADS vehicle platform. Together, these systems aim to deliver scalable, mobile, and rapidly deployable drone capabilities optimized for defense, security, and emergency response missions.
For Teledyne FLIR Defense, the collaboration opens new opportunities to offer global customers a mobile, modular deployment platform that can support a wide range of unmanned operations. Integration with RADS is expected to reduce overall system complexity, accelerate fielding timelines, and provide a vehicle‑agnostic solution compatible with nearly any pickup or tactical mobility platform. The combined solution will enhance mission adaptability across diverse operating environments.
“This partnership represents an exciting step in expanding how our vehicle-based UAS platforms can be deployed and sustained in the field,” said Harald Sørensen, vice president of Unmanned Systems-Norway for Teledyne FLIR Defense. “Pairing our advanced drones with STORM’s adaptable RADS system can help unlock new concepts of operation for a wide array of defense and security users.”
For STORM Adapt Group, the MoU strengthens its RADS ecosystem with the integration of proven Teledyne FLIR unmanned technologies. SkyCarrier and Black Recon broaden RADS’s ability to support a wider range of drone-enabled missions, reinforcing the system as a versatile, open-architecture platform.
“Teledyne FLIR Defense brings decades of trusted ISR and unmanned expertise, and adapting their systems into RADS will greatly enhance the capability set we can offer our customers,” said Andreas Rist, EVP, STORM Adapt Group. “Together, we’re creating a highly flexible, mission-ready solution that empowers operators to deploy UAS technology faster, safer, and with more operational impact.”
Key Mission Applications
The integrated capabilities envisioned under the MoU are targeted at several priority mission sets, including:
- Mobile intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance
- Rapid-response unmanned teams
- Border security and critical infrastructure protection
- Tactical military and homeland security operations
Teledyne FLIR Defense and STORM Adapt Group will begin joint technical evaluations following EnforceTac 2026, with further collaboration activities planned throughout the year.
About STORM Adapt Group
STORM Adapt Group is a Norwegian defense technology company developing modular capability systems and certified integration solutions for light vehicle platforms across defense, security, logistics, UAS operations, and emergency response. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Stokke, Norway, the company is the creator of the patented Rapid Adapt and Deploy System (RADS).
In addition to its modular platform architecture, STORM specializes in the development, prototyping, testing, and certification of advanced integration and mounting solutions for vehicle and aerospace applications. STORM works in accordance with stringent regulatory and operational requirements, including relevant MIL standards, as well as FAR and DFARS, ensuring robust, field-ready performance under demanding conditions.
STORM Adapt Group is ISO 9001 certified and operates through a growing production and partner network across Europe, North America, and Asia. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
26 Feb 26. Davenport Aviation announced the successful completion of Virtus First Shot testing last month in west Texas, marking a major milestone in the development of the Virtus modular weapon system and the first weaponized test of the Virtus H125 platform. The campaign included multiple successful rocket launches, officially validating Virtus as a proven, weaponized AS350/H125 configuration.
Virtus First Shot testing in west Texas, featuring multiple successful rocket launches and validating the weaponized AS350/H125 platform developed by Davenport Aviation.
Virtus completes First Shot with successful rocket launches, validating weaponized H125 platform.
The successful firing confirmed the structural integrity, system integration, and operational viability of Virtus on the AS350/H125 airframe. With these results, Davenport Aviation has demonstrated a fully functional, mission-ready armed configuration capable of supporting modern military and security operations.
“This was a critical milestone for Davenport Aviation and the Virtus team,” said Rob McMillin, Vice President of Aircraft and Aircraft Systems at Davenport Aviation. “Completing our First Shot test campaign validates the engineering behind the system and proves that the H125 can safely and effectively operate in a weaponized configuration.”
Virtus is the world’s first modular weapon system developed specifically for the AS350/H125 family, allowing operators to rapidly configure a single aircraft for multiple mission profiles. Installations and removals can be completed in under an hour, enabling seamless transitions between roles.
Designed for multi-mission adaptability, Virtus supports configurable armament ranging from podded miniguns and unguided rockets to precision-guided munitions and air-launched effects. The system also integrates EO/IR sensors, door gun options, hoists, searchlights, cargo capability, ballistic protection, and emergency floats—supporting armed reconnaissance, ISR, special operations, search and rescue, firefighting, humanitarian aid, and CASEVAC/MEDEVAC missions.
“The success of First Shot confirms what we set out to build—a true multi-mission aircraft that gives operators flexibility without the cost and complexity of traditional attack platforms,” said Chris Arnold, Director of Government Sales at Davenport Aviation. “Virtus allows global operators to meet evolving mission demands with a single, cost-effective helicopter.” (Source: PR Newswire)
28 Feb 26. Teledyne Marine, a global leader in maritime unmanned underwater vehicles and marine technologies, and M Subs, a UK-based innovator in marine unmanned systems and associated autonomy, are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a strategic collaboration.
This partnership aims to leverage the complementary expertise of both organizations to develop and execute business opportunities related to the UK Royal Navy and other international naval programs. The collaboration will focus on integrating advanced technologies, including vehicle platforms, autonomy systems, sonars, acoustic communications, cameras, lighting, and subsea connectors, to deliver cutting-edge solutions for maritime operations.
Efforts are already underway on cooperation with Teledyne SeaBat multibeam sonars successfully integrated and demonstrated on Zero USV platforms at REPMUS 2025. In addition, work has commenced on the deployment of Slocum gliders and Osprey class AUVs from Zero USV systems with demonstrations in the UK and Iceland planned in Q1 and Q2 of 2026.
Key highlights of the partnership include:
- Support for Royal Navy Programs: The collaboration will focus on advancing projects with the UK Royal Navy including possible joint cooperation for Atlantic Bastion and MHC Block 2 while leveraging M Subs and Teledyne’s significant UK presence and capability.
- Joint Business Development: Teledyne and M Subs will work together to identify and pursue mutually beneficial opportunities globally.
- Shared Expertise: Both parties will combine their technological capabilities to enhance unmanned systems and autonomy solutions for maritime applications.
Brian Maguire, Teledyne Marine Chief Operating Officer and Vehicles General Manager, stated, “This collaboration represents a significant step forward in advancing maritime technologies. By combining our expertise, we aim to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the UK and international markets.”
Brett Phaneuf, Director of M Subs, added, “It has been a pleasure to work with Teledyne to integrate the myriad sensors and devices they bring to bear on the marine and defense space; they have proved nimble and forward leaning in our work together, necessary qualities from flagship companies partnered with small SMEs for us to be successful in the future when serving the nation…it’s also been a great deal of fun.”
The partnership between Teledyne and M Subs is set to drive innovation and deliver impactful and operationally relevant solutions with high technology readiness levels for defense and commercial applications.
Proven Performance: Teledyne Marine is a leading provider of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) with two main production facilities located in North Falmouth, Massachusetts and Kopavogur, Iceland along with a network of international service centers. As of January 2026, Teledyne has delivered over 12,000 APEX floats, approximately 1,275 Slocum gliders (with over 600 to NATO naval users), and Gavia AUV systems have been purchased by 18 navies. Teledyne unmanned systems are operational with numerous NATO and AUKUS navies including the Royal Navy.
UK Presence: Teledyne currently has approximately 2,700 employees in the UK at 18 main sites and is committed to supporting current and future UK defense priorities with proven technology and local expertise. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
26 Feb 26. XTI Aerospace, Inc. (Nasdaq: XTIA) (“XTI” or the “Company”), an aerospace technology company focused on building and scaling its Drone Nerds, LLC (“Drone Nerds”) subsidiary, a drone platform serving enterprise and government customers, today announced the addition of the Antigravity A1, an all-in-one 8K 360 drone designed for immersive flight, to its product lineup.
Drone Nerds, LLC, a subsidiary of XTI Aerospace, Inc. (Nasdaq: XTIA), provides comprehensive drone solutions for enterprise, private, and recreational needs. (PRNewsfoto/XTI Aerospace, Inc.)
Antigravity A1 represents a new approach to creator drones. As a 360-degree aerial platform, the A1 captures its entire surroundings in high-resolution 8K video. Its dual-lens system, mounted above and below the fuselage, removes the drone from the final footage, enabling creators to capture every angle in a single flight, allowing users to revisit and reframe footage during post-production. This feature can help reduce the need for additional flights, potentially conserving time and battery resources. When paired with Vision Goggles, users can view the footage in an immersive 360-degree environment, freely looking in any direction. With the A1, users move beyond traditional piloting to experience a more dynamic perspective of flight.
“Our customers are continually looking for tools that improve efficiency while expanding what’s possible from the air,” said Jeremy Schneiderman, CEO of Drone Nerds. “The Antigravity A1 addresses both needs by enabling full-scene capture in a single flight and giving creators greater control in post-production. This addition strengthens our product portfolio with a differentiated solution designed for immersive content creation.”
“Partnering with Drone Nerds enables us to bring Antigravity A1 to a broader community of professional creators,” said Michael Shabun, CEO of Antigravity. “The A1 represents a new approach to aerial storytelling, designed to give creators greater creative control and flexibility while simplifying the capture process. For hobbyists, it offers a new way to experience the world from an aerial perspective, reflecting the sense of exploration and flight that has inspired generations.”
Immersive 8K 360 Capture and Intuitive Flight Experience
The Antigravity A1 is an all-in-one aerial imaging platform designed to support immersive content creation. According to manufacturer specifications, key capabilities include:
- Video Capture: Supports up to 8K (7680×3840) at 30/25/24fps, with additional capture modes including 5.2K and 4K options
- High-Resolution Photos: Supports up to 55MP still images (10496×5248)
- Battery Configurations: Manufacturer-listed maximum flight times of up to 24 minutes with the standard flight battery and up to 39 minutes with the high-capacity flight battery under specific testing conditions
- Flight Distance: Manufacturer-listed maximum flight distance per charge of up to 8 mi (13 km) with the standard flight battery and up to 14.3 mi (23 km) with the high-capacity flight battery under specific testing conditions
- Sensing and Obstacle Detection: Forward obstacle sensors, combined with dual fisheye lenses, provide expanded environmental perception designed to assist pilots with navigation and obstacle awareness during flight
- Immersive Live View: OmniLink 360 transmission system with live view quality listed at 2K at 30fps
(Performance figures are provided by the manufacturer and may vary based on environmental conditions, flight configuration, and operational use.)
Availability
The Antigravity A1 drone and accessories are now available through Drone Nerds’ online store at: www.dronenerds.com.
About XTI Aerospace, Inc.
XTI Aerospace, Inc. (Nasdaq: XTIA) is an aerospace technology company focused on the advancement of vertical flight. Through its Drone Nerds business, acquired in November 2025, XTI is a premier provider of unmanned aircraft systems (“UAS”), solutions, services and hardware. Through its XTI Aircraft business, the Company is engaged in the development of advanced vertical takeoff and landing (“VTOL”) aircraft with the range and speed of planes and the take-off and landing capability of helicopters.
For more information about XTI, please visit xtiaerospace.com and follow XTI on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.
About Drone Nerds
Drone Nerds, LLC, a subsidiary of XTI Aerospace, Inc. (Nasdaq: XTIA), provides comprehensive drone solutions for enterprise, private, and recreational needs. Established in 2014, Drone Nerds focuses on ensuring customers deploy the right UAS solutions for their unique operational requirements. Through its proprietary Always Flying™ program, Drone Nerds delivers enhanced reliability and assurance for enterprise implementations across industry verticals, including public safety, government, agriculture, construction, insurance, energy, inspection, and more. (Source: PR Newswire)
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EOS
Electro Optic Systems (EOS) is an Australian technology company with a global presence, delivering advanced solutions across defence and space. With operations in Australia, the United States, Europe, Singapore, the Middle East and New Zealand, EOS has been designing and manufacturing precision technologies for more than four decades.
In defence, EOS is a leader in remote weapon systems, with more than 2,500 delivered and proven in operational service with allied forces. The company designs, develops and manufactures highly accurate counter-drone solutions for force and asset protection. These include both kinetic and high energy laser options that defeat drone threats effectively and at a comparatively low cost per shot. In August 2025, EOS secured the world’s first export contract for a 100 kW-class high energy laser weapon, with delivery scheduled between 2025 and 2028.
In the space domain, EOS is internationally recognised for its expertise in space domain awareness and space control. Its ground-based optical systems track and characterise satellites and debris to support both defence and commercial operations worldwide. Through its New Zealand subsidiary, EOS also designs and manufactures precision optics for space and astronomy applications.
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