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16 Apr 26. Counter-UAS Marketplace Streamlines Acquisition, First Purchases Total $13m.
Joint Interagency Task Force 401 announced today the first set of purchases completed through its newly launched counter-unmanned aircraft systems marketplace. The four purchases, collectively valued at $13 million, represent a new milestone in the task force’s mission to streamline critical counter-UAS technology acquisition among the War Department and its interagency partners.
The recent purchases provided key counter-UAS capabilities to U.S. Central Command, individual services with homeland defense missions, as well as Joint Task Force Southern Border. The orders include low-collateral defeat effectors, sensor systems, radars and electronic warfare systems.
Hosted on the common hardware systems electronic catalog, the marketplace is powered by an established Army indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract, enabling customers to place orders immediately. The system eliminates the lead time typically associated with defense procurement by simplifying the purchase process and providing access to a growing catalog of validated counter-small UAS equipment.
“The [common hardware systems] website … is designed to facilitate direct, seamless transactions between government entities and approved vendors,” said Army Maj. Matt Mellor, the lead acquisitions specialist for the task force. “Through the platform, customers can review performance data, compare systems and make informed decisions based on real-world test results and verified capabilities.”
Launched in February, the marketplace features a dozen counter-UAS systems, and its continuously expanding inventory contains a wide array of sensors, effectors and system components. The task force will continue to expand available options as new technologies are developed and as companies request that their products be included.
The catalog also currently includes components that can be used as repair parts, allowing customers to meet a wide range of requirements through a single platform.
“The marketplace is a critical step forward in our whole-of-government approach to countering the threat of unmanned systems,” said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, JIATF 401 director. “This platform is not only revolutionizing the entire procurement process, but also empowering users with the information and tools needed to safeguard our service members and citizens, while providing timely, cost-effective solutions to our warfighters.”
The counter-UAS marketplace is now available to users across the War Department and other federal agencies, providing access to a comprehensive array of counter-UAS solutions that will enable the resourcing of a layered defense to protect the homeland and enhance warfighter lethality.n(Source: U.S. DoD)
16 Apr 26. New Interceptor Drone has AI Sound Targeting. Talon Avionics, a defence technology company based in Boise, Idaho, has developed SECTR, an autonomous drone-intercept system designed to detect, track, and neutralize aerial threats using AI-driven acoustic sensing.
At its core is the modular SECTR-IK-02 interceptor station, a 10×10 launch platform scalable to 100 tubes and controlled from a single station. It can be deployed on vehicles or as a static installation, supporting missions such as convoy protection, forward base defense, and critical infrastructure security.
Each interceptor, including its launch tube, weighs just 700 grams and measures 100×100×250 mm, enabling efficient transport and large-scale deployment. A fully loaded system operates for up to 24 hours on a single charge and functions in extreme temperatures from -40°C to +85°C.
SECTR integrates a dual-layer detection system combining proprietary acoustic sensing with radar. The acoustic array identifies drone motor signatures at distances up to 100 meters, even before radar visibility, while radar extends detection from 200 to 1,000 meters. These inputs feed a fusion engine that classifies threats and initiates engagement in under one second.
Each interceptor carries 16 microphones and uses beamforming to locate targets. An onboard AI distinguishes between target noise and environmental interference, ensuring accurate guidance. Interceptors reach speeds of 135 km/h, operate for up to five minutes, and achieve a reported hit probability above 95% against drones up to 1 kg.
A key advantage is SECTR’s passive acoustic detection, which emits no signals and preserves operational concealment. This also enables early detection of “sleeper drones” activated nearby.
Designed for military, law enforcement, and infrastructure protection, SECTR features a software-defined architecture that allows rapid updates, supporting evolving counter-drone requirements with minimal operator involvement.
(Source: UAS VISION/Defence Blog)
15 Apr 26. Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has successfully completed the first flight test of its RAIVEN® Staring system, an air-cooled sensor suite that delivers greater situational awareness and operator survivability, on a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. During the test, the system, which included three sensors, accurately mapped urban landscape, marshes and coastline in zero illumination and with 270-degree situational awareness.
RAIVEN Staring, part of the RAIVEN product family, is a next-generation electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) solution that is platform agnostic, scalable and customizable for missions across air, ground and sea. Its open systems architecture allows for easy system integration and component upgrades.
“This test showcases the RAIVEN Staring system’s advanced sensing capabilities, enabling partners and allies to better identify and respond to threats through integrated situational awareness,” said Dan Theisen, president of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon. “This offering will provide a significant increase in survivability and mission effectiveness through unprecedented situational awareness, high-resolution pilotage functions as well as passive missile detection, warning and tracking.”
The RAIVEN EO/IR product family is configurable and can support up to a spherical 360-degree field of view, which significantly improves the speed and accuracy of object detection, recognition and identification. This provides operators with increased visibility in a variety of degraded visual environments, terrains and battle scenarios.
The sensors are produced in McKinney, Texas. Additional flight tests will take place throughout 2026.
(Source: PR Newswire)
15 Apr 26. VSBLTY Groupe Technologies Corp. (CSE: VSBY) (OTCQB: VSBGF) (Frankfurt: 5765) (“VSBLTY” or the “Company”) today announced the availability of its multi-sensor drone detection and intelligence platform for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market, where the ongoing conflict has fundamentally changed how governments think about drone defense.
WHY THE CURRENT APPROACH IS FAILING
The Gulf conflict of 2026 has proven one thing clearly: shooting down cheap drones with expensive missiles is not a long-term strategy.
Since February 28, GCC nations have intercepted over 3,700 incoming drones and missiles. The cost of those intercepts — using Patriot missiles at $3.8 million each against drones that cost $35,000 to build — has exceeded $11 billion. The attacking side spent less than $100 million. In five weeks, 86% of the region’s missile defense stockpile was consumed. Replacing it will take four years.
The problem is not that the missiles do not work. They do. The problem is that the defender runs out of ammunition before the attacker runs out of drones.
“You cannot solve a detection problem with a more expensive missile,” said Jay Hutton, CEO of VSBLTY. “What the Gulf conflict has shown is that the real gap is not in the weapons. It is in knowing what is coming, what kind of threat it is, and how confident you are in that assessment — before you decide how to respond. That is what sensor fusion does.”
WHAT SENSOR FUSION ACTUALLY MEANS
Today, most drone defense systems rely on a single type of sensor — usually radar or radio-frequency scanning. Each has serious limitations.
Radar sees far but struggles with very small drones and generates false alarms from birds, wind turbines, and debris. Radio-frequency scanners detect the signals drones use to communicate with their operators — but a growing number of drones fly autonomously or use fiber-optic cables instead of radio signals, making them completely invisible to RF detection. Cameras can identify what a drone looks like, but only at short range, and they fail in sandstorms, fog, and darkness.
No single sensor sees everything. But together, they cover each other’s blind spots.
VSBLTY’s V.Next platform takes data from all of these sensors — radar, acoustic microphones, cameras, radio-frequency detectors, and others — and combines them into one unified picture in under five milliseconds. If the radar sees something moving but cannot tell what it is, the camera identifies it. If the camera cannot see through a sandstorm, the acoustic sensor hears it. If the drone is flying silently with no radio signal, the combination of radar and acoustic data still detects it.
The result is not just detection. It is a classified, prioritized, and documented threat assessment — delivered to the operator at the speed required to make decisions that matter.
WHY DOCUMENTATION MATTERS AS MUCH AS DETECTION
In a conflict where every interceptor launch costs millions, operators need more than an alarm. They need to know which sensor saw the threat, what the AI classified it as, how confident the system is, and whether multiple sensors agree.
VSBLTY’s governed intelligence architecture provides this. Every alert the system generates carries a complete record: what was detected, by which sensor, at what confidence level, and what the system recommends. When sensors disagree — one says drone, another says bird — the system resolves the conflict using weighted evidence and presents the operator with a governed recommendation, not a guess.
This matters when interceptor stocks are depleted and every engagement decision carries real consequences. It also matters after the fact, when commanders need to review why a particular response was taken.
HOW IT WORKS IN PRACTICE
The entire system runs at the edge — on-site, at the facility being protected — with no need for cloud connectivity. This means it works even when communication links are damaged, which has happened repeatedly at Gulf facilities during the current conflict.
It processes data from over 1,000 objects simultaneously. It works with whatever sensors are already installed — existing radars, existing cameras, existing RF detectors — without requiring defenders to rip out and replace their current equipment.
And it operates on any hardware platform — Qualcomm, NVIDIA, Blaize, or Intel — so there is no lock-in to a single chip vendor.
THE MARKET
GCC nations spend over $120 billion annually on defense. Global spending on counter-drone systems reached $29 billion in the first quarter of 2026 alone. The counter-drone market is projected to grow from $6.6 billion to over $20 billion by 2030.
VSBLTY is making its platform available in the GCC through established regional channel partnerships, designed to complement existing defense systems rather than replace them.
ABOUT VSBLTY GROUPE TECHNOLOGIES CORP.
VSBLTY Groupe Technologies Corp. (CSE: VSBY) (OTCQB: VSBGF) (Frankfurt: 5765) is a Philadelphia-headquartered AI company with a multi-sensor data fusion and governed intelligence platform. VSBLTY’s silicon-agnostic platform deploys across defense, critical infrastructure, and smart city environments. www.vsblty.net.
(Source: PR Newswire)
14 Apr 26. Joint Task Forces Train on Counter-UASs, Strengthen Homeland Defense
Joint Interagency Task Force 401 and Joint Task Force National Capital Region recently coordinated a training exercise at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, as part of a synchronized effort to advance counter-drone capabilities.
Soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment are undergoing special training on the Bumblebee V1 counter-unmanned aerial system as part of a broader effort to strengthen layered defenses protecting key War Department infrastructure in the homeland. The training focuses on equipping soldiers to detect, track, identify and defeat drones with minimal risk to surrounding personnel and facilities.
“We want to train our warfighters in the national capital region on how best to employ low-cost, low-collateral kinetic effectors,” said Army Lt. Col. Alex Morse, JIATF 401 acquisition lead. “The training at Fort Belvoir adds to the layered defense systems that are set up here in the NCR.”
The Bumblebee system is a small drone that is being operationally assessed for dual use as a reconnaissance asset and a counter-UAS platform, allowing operators to identify and intercept hostile drones using a controlled, low-collateral approach.
“Bumblebee’s improved air-to-air capability will enhance our layered defenses by enabling warfighters to follow drones back to their launch point to identify the operator, or by destroying them in the air with minimal risk to people or property on the ground,” said Army Lt. Col. Adam Scher, JIATF 401 spokesperson.
Joint Interagency Task Force 401 is focused on creating a layered defense against drone threats by integrating systems and rapidly increasing capabilities. By synchronizing efforts with Joint Task Force National Capital Region, it is leading a whole-of-government approach to protect the homeland through innovation and interoperability. The addition of Bumblebee systems represents a deliberate step toward expanding the tools available for warfighters to counter the persistent threat of UASs.
“Countering drones is both a battlefield and a homeland defense imperative. We have to work together, share information and leverage the entire joint force along with interagency and law enforcement partners to keep pace with this threat,” said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, JIATF 401 director.
As unmanned threats evolve, success will depend not only on acquiring top-tier technology but also on ensuring warfighters are properly trained and possess the necessary permissions to effectively employ counter-UAS technology in defense of the homeland.
“We will not be limited to library-based radio frequency defeat systems as we protect against drone threats,” Ross said. “We must be proactive with a layered defense, including kinetic defeat options at every War Department base or facility.” (Source: U.S. DoD)
14 Apr 26. C-UAS Hub said today that Australia to invest up to $3.6 billion in drones and counter-UAS capabilities
Australia plans to significantly expand its investment in drones and counter-UAS systems, with spending expected to reach up to Au$5 billion ($3.6 billion), Defense Minister Richard Marles said Tuesday.
The investment is the result of lessons drawn from recent conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, where low-cost, mass-produced drones have reshaped the battlefield and increased demand for counter-drone technologies.
“We look at what’s happening in the Middle East right now – you need counter-drone technology as well,” Marles said in an interview with ABC radio.
The funding increase will form part of a broader plan to spend between Au$12 billion and Au$15 billion over the next decade on autonomous capabilities. These investments include both existing programs, such as the Ghost Shark autonomous submarine and the Ghost Bat uncrewed aircraft, as well as expanded focus on smaller drones and counter-UAS systems.
“Clearly, autonomous systems now are really central to how contest happens, how war happens,” Marles said.
Australia’s defense strategy has traditionally emphasized long-range capabilities due to its geography, including a vast coastline and relatively small population. However, recent conflicts have highlighted the importance of scalable, lower-cost systems that can be deployed in large numbers.
“What you get at the smaller end is mass – you know, lots of units – and that’s what we are seeing play out in Ukraine,” Marles added.
The planned spending increase comes as Australia continues to adapt its defense posture amid regional security concerns, including China’s expanding naval capabilities. It also aligns with ongoing cooperation under the AUKUS partnership with the United States and the United Kingdom, which includes plans for nuclear-powered submarines.
The updated national defense strategy outlining these investments is expected to be released later this week.
Australia to invest up to $3.6 billion in drones and counter-UAS capabilities – cuashub.com
16 April 2026 – Semi Conductor Devices (SCD), a global leader in infrared detector technology, today announced the launch of the Robin™ family, a new generation of 12µm VGA LWIR uncooled detectors and thermal cores engineered to meet the growing demand for high-performance thermal imaging across modern defense operations.
The Robin family expands SCD’s uncooled infrared portfolio and strengthens the company’s strategic position, enabling defense integrators to address a new class of high-volume, high-performance applications.
Built on advanced VOx microbolometer technology, the Robin family introduces a breakthrough thermal time constant (Tau) of ≤7ms, among the fastest in the 12µm LWIR market. This ultra-fast response enables sharp, blur-free thermal imaging under rapid motion, ensuring reliable detection, tracking, and targeting in high-dynamic environments.
Designed for applications such as missile seekers, guided munitions, loitering munitions, autonomous effectors, and agile UAS payloads, Robin combines NETD below 50mK at detector level and below 35mK at core level with exceptional image clarity and sensitivity, even in complex and rapidly changing operational conditions.
The Robin family is offered in multiple configurations, from standalone detectors to compact video modules and fully integrated thermal cores, providing integrators with flexible deployment options across diverse mission requirements.
Together, these configurations enable seamless deployment across a wide range of applications, including armored vehicle situational awareness and DVE, missile warning systems (MWS), thermal weapon sights, and persistent surveillance systems.
Robin is designed to overcome the limitations of current-generation 12µm LWIR solutions, delivering consistently sharp thermal imagery in motion-intensive scenarios while reducing stabilization requirements and system complexity. By minimizing reliance on heavy gimbals and extensive post-processing, Robin enables faster integration, streamlined deployment, and enhanced mission effectiveness.
Modern defense platforms increasingly demand compact, power-efficient, and cost-effective solutions at scale. Robin is engineered to meet these requirements, enabling deployment across a broad spectrum, from precision-guided systems to high-volume tactical platforms, while maintaining high imaging performance.
In parallel, SCD is investing in advanced automated manufacturing capabilities to ensure consistent quality at scale, reliable long-term supply, and resilience for global defense programs.
The Robin family is designed to meet both current and emerging operational requirements, while serving as a foundation for future advancements in uncooled infrared technology. SCD’s development roadmap includes continued evolution toward smaller pixel pitches, enhanced performance architectures, and AI-ready imaging capabilities, supporting the growing demand for autonomous sensing, onboard processing, and real-time decision-making at the edge.
“The Robin family represents a strategic step in expanding SCD’s leadership into the uncooled infrared domain,” said Kobi Zaushnizer, CEO of SCD. “By leveraging decades of infrared expertise and advanced ROIC capabilities, we are introducing a new generation of 12µm solutions that combine ultra-fast thermal response, high image quality, and production scalability. This enables our customers to develop and deploy next-generation EO/IR systems with greater confidence, operational performance and supply assurance.”
14 Apr 26. C-UAS Hub said today that EagleNXT and ThirdEye Systems form Texas-based C-UAS joint venture
EagleNXT has announced a $10 million investment in Israeli firm ThirdEye Systems alongside the creation of a new joint venture focused on counter-UAS systems.
The joint venture, ThirdEye USA, will be based at EagleNXT’s headquarters in Allen, Texas, and will supply counter-drone products to U.S. and Canadian markets. EagleNXT will hold a 51 percent stake in the entity, with ThirdEye Systems retaining 49 percent.
ThirdEye Systems develops electro-optical recognition and AI-enabled counter-drone technologies, with systems designed for fixed installations, vehicles and aerial platforms. Its portfolio includes products such as Argus Shield and Meduza X, which focus on detection and identification.
The partnership is intended to combine EagleNXT’s unmanned systems and sensor capabilities with ThirdEye’s optical and AI technologies, with an emphasis on localized production and compliance with U.S. procurement requirements.
“ThirdEye Systems has developed world-class, high performance optical recognition and counter-drone capabilities that complement our expanding portfolio of UAS solutions,” said Bill Irby, CEO of EagleNXT. “With the establishment of the ThirdEye USA joint venture in our Allen, Texas facility, we are strengthening our position in the defense and security markets while delivering American-produced, localized solutions that align with U.S. acquisition and export requirements.”
The companies said the joint venture will use EagleNXT’s existing manufacturing and integration infrastructure to accelerate deployment timelines. ThirdEye USA is expected to become operational by May 2026.
EagleNXT and ThirdEye Systems form Texas-based C-UAS joint venture – cuashub.com
14 Apr 26. C-UAS Hub said today that Laser Photonics reaches prototype stage for C-UAS laser.
Laser Photonics Corporation has reached the prototype stage of a laser-based counter-drone system being developed in collaboration with other LASE Group companies, marking a step forward in its effort to enter the directed-energy counter-UAS market.
The system is being developed jointly with Quantum Technology Inc., Fonon Drone Shield System and Fonon Technology Inc., combining detection, tracking and laser-based neutralization into a single platform. According to the company, initial testing validated the system’s ability to neutralize a Class 1 drone using laser engagement.
The prototype incorporates a visual infrared “dome” detection approach designed to provide wide-area awareness and support rapid identification of aerial threats. The laser subsystem is intended to enable controlled, scalable mitigation of drones, with additional development focused on improving performance through electro-optical technologies.
“This joint initiative reflects LASE Group’s commitment to advancing high-performance defense technologies through strategic integration of capabilities across its portfolio,” said Wayne Tupola, CEO of Laser Photonics. “By combining expertise in photonics, quantum technologies and defense-grade systems, we are positioning ourselves to deliver a highly differentiated solution in the rapidly growing counter-drone market.”
The company also confirmed it has submitted technical materials related to the system to U.S. Special Operations Command for the REPTILE 26 counter-UAS experiment, as well as to Naval Special Warfare Command under a Commercial Solutions Opening.
While still in development, the project reflects continued industry interest in directed-energy systems as a potential option for countering small drones, particularly where precision engagement and reduced collateral effects are required.
Laser Photonics reaches prototype stage for C-UAS laser – cuashub.com
13 Apr 26. C-UAS Hub said today that Finland Seeks €35m EU funding for C-UAS systems on Eastern Border.
Finland will apply for €35 million in European Union funding to strengthen its ability to detect and counter drones along its eastern border and in the Gulf of Finland, as part of a broader effort to address hybrid security threats.
The Finnish government confirmed the decision following approval by its Ministerial Committee on Economic Policy, with funding to be requested under the EU’s Border Management and Visa Instrument. The program is designed to support member states facing increased pressure on external borders, including emerging threats linked to unmanned systems.
According to the government, the planned procurement will focus on systems capable of detecting, monitoring and where necessary, countering drone activity in strategically sensitive areas. The effort is expected to significantly enhance surveillance capabilities while also improving Finland’s ability to respond directly to unauthorized drone operations.
The EU is expected to cover up to 90 percent of the costs, with the total program extending beyond the headline €35 million through national co-financing. Funding can also be used for system integration and training, indicating a broader effort to build operational capability rather than simply acquire equipment. Procurement is expected to take place between 2027 and 2029.
The move aligns with wider EU policy efforts, including the European Commission’s recent counter-drone initiatives aimed at strengthening security at external borders and critical infrastructure. A €250 million funding pool has been made available to support such efforts across member states.
The eastern frontier represents part of the EU’s external border, while the Gulf is a key area for maritime traffic, infrastructure protection and regional security.
Finland Seeks €35m EU funding for C-UAS systems on Eastern Border – cuashub.com
10 Apr 26. ENAIRE announces drone, air and space mobility prize competitions.
Spain’s air navigation services provider, ENAIRE has announced awards that recognise the work and talent of people dedicated to research, innovation and communication in the air and space sector.
The competition is open to works, studies, projects, articles, technical publications, etc., that constitute a unique contribution to innovation in the drone sector, in the areas of aircraft design and systems technologies (including propulsion, communications, control, etc.), production, operation, drone traffic management and the development of new applications. The prize includes a cash award of EUR 10,000.
Airbus Spain will also provide the winner with the opportunity to present their project to the company’s technical managers and, if the project is of interest to them, they would study the possibility of making a prototype.
ENAIRE announced four other aeronautical awards including a prize for innovative work in the application of space technology to air and space mobility. This award category calls for a clear commitment to the development of research and technological innovation initiatives for application in air and space mobility and transport, for both commercial and non-commercial aviation, including the promotion of space applications to improve air traffic management.
For this award, all works, studies, or projects carried out or published between 2024 and 2025 that constitute a unique and practical contribution to air mobility and air and space transport are eligible. This prize includes a cash award of EUR 10,000.
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
10 Apr 26. France’s DGA issues EUR18.7 million tender for the supply of 1,000 C-UAS interceptor drones.
France’s Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA) has published a tender in the Europa tender portal for industry to propose new counter-UAS interceptors as part of the Light Equipment for Autonomous System Interception (ELISA) programme.
Deadline for receipt of requests to participate is May 7 2026.
“The French Armed Forces have issued the observation that the equipment for defence against drones, in service with the forces, only partially meets current and future threats, both in quantity and cost,” according to the text (translated from French by google translate). “The ELISA innovation partnership aims to develop and industrialize next-generation interceptor aerial drones, capable of countering current and future threats such as drones or autonomous remotely operated munitions, and that can be implemented without heavy means. The contract consists of a single lot. This is an innovation partnership, which will be implemented in the form of several framework agreements with subsequent contracts (one framework agreement per partner).
“The ELISA innovation partnership concerns drone systems that intercept drones, neutralizing their target by percussion or by an on-board pyrotechnic charge. The class considered for targets to be intercepted includes drones weighing more than 100 kg, flying at a maximum speed of 600 km/h.
The contract for 1,000 interceptor drones is worth around EUR18.7 million and includes “evaluation of existing systems; their supply to meet the immediate needs of the forces; the developments allowing them to increase their maturity and performance in order to be able to neutralize current threats more effectively and to deal with future threats; the supply of new systems resulting from developments and the ability to allow the initial systems to benefit from all or part of the improvements developed; controlled systems support; associated or related services (e.g. training, etc.).”
For more information
https://ted.europa.eu/en/notice/-/detail/238968-2026 (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
10 Apr 26. US Air Force seeking handheld C-UAS devices. The United States Air Force (USAF) is looking to purchase three handheld devices to detect and defeat drone threats.
According to the solicitation posted on April 8, the device must be a compact, lightweight and cost-effective tool that can detect and defeat commercial drone threats. It should be certified and approved for military and civilian transport.
The system should weigh no more than 10 lbs (approximately 4.5 kg) including the battery. It must be within or exceed external power 60+ minutes jamming, 10+ hours detection. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) jamming and navigation frequencies using directional emissions to minimise inadvertent GNSS disruption are required; optionally disabled in hardware for users without authorisation to jam GNSS. Spoofing capabilities should be available to interdict ‘dark drones’ flying exclusively on waypoint control.
Offers are due by April 17.
For more information
USAF solicitation on SAM.gov
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
10 Apr 26. US Air Force C-sUAS battle lab takes up permanent residence at Grand Forks.
The US Air Force’s 319th Reconnaissance Wing opened the Point Defense Battle Lab’s (PDBL) permanent facility on April 9. PDBL is charged with developing tactics, techniques and procedures to defend all stateside Air Force installations against aerial threats while exercising existing counter-small uncrewed aerial system (C-sUAS) technologies.
“The primary goal of the Air Combat Command’s Battle lab is to develop the play book, the systems and the capabilities that will allow us to defend against s-UAS hostility, ” said Brig. Gen. Micah Fesler, Air National Guard advisor to the commander, Air Combat Command.
The Air Combat Command selected Grand Forks Air Force Base to host the PDBL in October of 2025, and selected the 184th Wing, Kansas Air National Guard to support the programme. The selection of the base was in part due to the 319th RW’s existing RQ-4 Global Hawk mission, a remotely piloted platform, and their existing partnerships with UAS industry and education.
Since its activation in October, PDBL has executed five exercises and evaluated several systems. The newly designated PDBL facility offers further permanence to the mission and expands the team’s ability to plan and conduct exercises aimed at evaluating existing C-sUAS technologies. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
13 Apr 26. FAA Allows DoW to use Lasers to Protect Southern Border. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of War (DOW) completed a thorough safety assessment of a high-energy laser counter-drone system. This assessment validated that proper safety controls are in place and that while these systems are at the cutting edge of counter drone technology, they do not pose undue risk to passenger aircraft.
The FAA and the DOW completed the safety assessment after observing demonstrations of the system last month. This Administration upholds the highest standard for safeguarding Americans and will build-in this methodology from the start for systems employed in the U.S. Homeland.
“The FAA’s top priority is protecting the safety of the American flying public, and we value the collaboration with the Department of War in that effort,”
said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.
“Following a thorough, data-informed Safety Risk Assessment, we determined that these systems do not present an increased risk to the flying public. We will continue working with our interagency partners to ensure the National Airspace System remains safe while addressing emerging drone threats.”
“This successful test showcases the significant advancements we’re making in counter-drone technology to ensure that our warfighters have the most advanced tools to defend the homeland,”
said U.S. Army Brigadier General Matt Ross, director of JIATF-401.
“By working hand-in-hand with the FAA and our interagency partners, the Department of War is proving that these cutting-edge capabilities are safe, effective, and ready to protect all air travelers from illicit drone use in the national airspace.”
The DOW will continue to coordinate with the FAA to safely employ this system and ensure civilian aircraft, pilots, navigation equipment, or air traffic services are not impacted.
(Source: UAS VISION/
Sources: Department of War; FAA
13 Apr 26. Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, successfully demonstrated a new event-based mid-wave infrared (MWIR) camera that tracks high speed objects in real time while dramatically reducing processing and power demands. Unlike traditional cameras that capture full frames and rely on software to detect changes, event-based cameras track only pixel-level motion, producing a continuous stream of events.
During a demonstration in Northern California, the event-based camera tracked multiple targets, including ground vehicles, aircraft, and live fires, by capturing rapid motion not achievable with conventional frame-based infrared cameras. By reporting only changes in motion rather than full image frames, the camera was able to deliver a near-instantaneous view of activity happening during the exercise.
“This technology represents a new way of sensing the world in mid-wave infrared,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon. “By focusing only on motion instead of recording every frame and analyzing after the fact, we gain the ability to track very fast objects with far less data and processing, enabling much quicker threat detection and response time.”
This capability opens the door to a wide range of defense and national security applications, particularly in environments where speed, clutter, and high volumes of data challenge existing sensors and processors. This includes enhanced battlefield awareness and base protection, smarter missile guidance, and more effective surveillance from aircraft and unmanned systems.
Developed under the DARPA-funded Fast Event-based Neuromorphic Camera and Electronics (FENCE) program, the camera was built from the ground up as a new sensing architecture. With the initial contract complete, Raytheon’s Advanced Technology team is now exploring follow on demonstrations and data collection that would showcase the sensor across a broader set of mission scenarios and target types.
(Source: PR Newswire)
03 Apr 26 C-UAS Hub said today that France launches $22m tender for 1,000 counter-drone interceptors.
France’s Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA) has issued a $21.8 million tender for the supply of 1,000 counter-UAS interceptor drones as part of its ELISA program.
The tender, published on the European procurement portal, calls for industry proposals to develop and deliver interceptor systems capable of addressing current and emerging drone threats. The deadline for participation requests is May 7, 2026.
According to the tender documentation, the French Armed Forces have identified gaps in existing counter-drone capabilities.
“The French Armed Forces have issued the observation that the equipment for defence against drones, in service with the forces, only partially meets current and future threats, both in quantity and cost,” the request states. “The ELISA innovation partnership aims to develop and industrialize next-generation interceptor aerial drones, capable of countering current and future threats such as drones or autonomous remotely operated munitions, and that can be implemented without heavy means.
The ELISA initiative is structured as an innovation partnership, with multiple framework agreements expected to be awarded to different suppliers. The program will cover evaluation of existing systems, initial procurement to meet urgent operational needs and further development to improve performance against evolving threats.
The interceptors are expected to engage targets through direct impact or onboard pyrotechnic charges. The requirement includes the ability to counter drones weighing more than 100 kg and traveling at speeds of up to 600 km/h.
In addition to delivering new systems, the contract also includes upgrades to existing platforms, training and support services. The program builds on ongoing efforts among European militaries to scale interceptor drone capabilities as part of layered counter-UAS defenses.
France launches $22m tender for 1,000 counter-drone interceptors – cuashub.com
15 Apr 26. Hall Lidar Inc, a U.S.-based developer of advanced sensing and counter-UAS technologies, today announced the launch of its first-generation acoustic drone detection system. The UDL-64 (Ultimate Drone Listener) system delivers real-time 3D situational awareness in complex operational environments, representing a major step forward in security addressing aerial threats.
Hall Lidar concept
The drone detection system operates independently of RF signals, GPS availability, or visual conditions. The system emits no signals and remains undetectable to adversaries. At the same time, acoustic signatures cannot be spoofed or masked in the way electronic signals can, providing a uniquely resilient detection modality. Integrated connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5G, allow the system to seamlessly integrate into broader command-and-control architectures. As a standalone mode, a single unit can detect drones at distances of up to 200 meters. Multiple units working in collaboration expand coverage to approximately 500 meters,
While acoustic drone detection systems have emerged globally in recent years, including international vendors. Hall Lidar’s UDL-64 is fully designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States. This ensures a secure and transparent supply chain, alignment with federal procurement requirements, with a high level of trust and reliability. CEO and head scientist, David Hall, designed the system to be a trusted and reliable product, while also low in cost, adaptable to different projects and budgets.
“Customers should not have to choose between performance and security,” said David Hall. “We’ve built a system that delivers both—advanced AI-based acoustic detection with the assurance of American manufacturing and supply chain integrity.”
Hall’s undetectable, ‘non-spoofable’ solution addresses increasing obsolescence in current detection technology
As drone threats continue to evolve in scale and sophistication, operators are demanding systems that can perform reliably in environments where traditional technologies often struggle. Radar systems can be degraded by the terrain and aerial clutter. Radio frequency (RF)-based solutions are increasingly ineffective against autonomous or non-emitting drones, and optical systems depend heavily on line-of-sight conditions.
Acoustic sensing introduces a fundamentally different approach. Because it relies on the physical sound signatures produced by drone rotors, it operates independently of RF signals, GPS availability, or visual conditions. The system emits no signals and remains undetectable to adversaries. At the same time, acoustic signatures cannot be spoofed or masked in the way electronic signals can, providing a uniquely resilient detection modality.
AI-Driven Acoustic Intelligence in Real Time
At the core of the system is a high-density microphone array paired with advanced, edge-based AI processing. The platform continuously captures spatial sound data and applies real-time beamforming techniques to isolate and track aerial threats across defined sectors. Using trained acoustic models, the system can classify drones based on their unique rotor signatures while filtering out environmental noise such as wind, vehicles, or urban activity.
When deployed as a network, multiple units collaborate to provide triangulated positioning, enabling full 3D tracking of targets across an expanded coverage area. An optional integrated optical module allows operators to visually confirm and validate threats once detected, creating a layered sensing approach without compromising the system’s location.
The physical design of the system has been engineered to maximize acoustic performance in real-world conditions. The sensor array is housed within a specialized structure that enhances sound capture and directionality, while a rugged, weather-resistant enclosure protects the system without impeding acoustic sensitivity. With no moving parts, the platform is inherently durable and well-suited for long-term deployment in harsh environments.
Built for Operational Flexibility
The system is compact and lightweight, with a form factor of approximately 24 inches in diameter, making it easily deployable in a wide range of scenarios. It can be mounted on a tripod or mast and set up in minutes, enabling rapid response for mobile units while also supporting longer-term installations for fixed-site defense.
Power flexibility further enhances its versatility, with options including battery, solar, or external power sources. Integrated connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5G, allowing the system to seamlessly integrate into broader command-and-control architectures.
In standalone mode, a single unit can detect drones at distances of up to 200 meters. When networked, multiple units expand coverage to approximately 500 meters, providing persistent, three-dimensional situational awareness across a defined area.
Designed for Real-World Missions
The platform has been developed with real operational environments in mind, supporting use cases that range from rapidly deployable mobile teams to fully integrated, fixed defense systems. Mobile units can be deployed in as little as one minute, providing immediate directional awareness of incoming threats. In more permanent configurations, multiple sensors can be networked to deliver sophisticated, precise tracking data, including target location, speed, altitude, and classification.
These capabilities make the system well-suited for protecting civilian airports, energy facilities, transportation hubs, arenas, and more. Its small design package makes it valuable in monitoring scenarios where discretion is essential.
For pricing, delivery, and more information visit https://halllidar.com/.
(Source: PR Newswire)
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Echodyne is a U.S. designer and manufacturer of advanced commercial radar solutions for defense and national security applications. The company’s proprietary metamaterials electronically scanned array (MESA®) architecture, a rare breakthrough in advanced radar engineering, leverages a physics-design approach to adapt conventional materials and deliver unexpected and beneficial behavior. The result is a solid-state, low-SWaP unit coupled with advanced software capabilities that delivers superior radar performance and unparalleled data integrity, radically improving system performance and enhancing safety for people and machines. With leading positions in counter-UAS, force protection, base security, and portable ISR, Defense Agencies and Suppliers rely on Echodyne radar for extraordinary accuracy and consistent, reliable operation. For more information, please visit: Echodyne.com.
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