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Latest articles and analysis on counter-UAS technology and drone warfare
Expansion of Global Counter-UAS Market Driven by Significant Increases in U.S. and NATO Defense Budgets | Morningstar
The global Counter-UAS (C-UAS) market is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by significant increases in U.S. and NATO defense budgets, exceeding $29 billion in publicly announced contracts in Q1 2026. The Pentagon's FY27 budget requests over $70 billion for drone and C-UAS systems, while DHS is deploying an AI-powered surveillance network along the southern border. NATO is prioritizing the acquisition of autonomous interceptor drones with advanced AI-driven threat classification.
DoD and DHS Expand Counter-UAS Procurement | Govly
The DoD is requesting $70 billion for FY27 for drone and counter-UAS technologies, signaling a major investment in this domain. DHS awarded Airship AI a $2.1M contract for AI-driven border surveillance, and ParaZero Technologies secured a $650K+ agreement to supply net-based interception systems to an international partner. These developments highlight the increasing reliance on AI and integrated systems in both defense and homeland security applications.
Israeli startup eyesAtop builds unified drone platform for modern warfare
Israeli startup eyesAtop has developed a unified drone platform capable of coordinating multiple drones from different manufacturers under a single operator interface. The system utilizes edge-based AI for autonomous operation even in GPS-denied environments and boasts over 500,000 hours of combat experience. The platform aims to address the scalability and coordination challenges of modern drone warfare.
Israeli forces face challenges as Hezbollah ramps up use of FPV drones
Hezbollah has significantly increased its use of fiber-optic guided First-Person View (FPV) drones against Israeli forces since the resumption of conflict in March, launching 160 drones, 90 of which are FPV models. These drones have been modified to utilize fiber-optic links for control and video transmission, making them more difficult to detect and counter. The IDF acknowledges the threat but states its Iron Beam system is ineffective against these drones.
Drone Threats Are Evolving; Data Retention Rules Are Not
Unauthorized drone activity near US military installations, civilian airports, and nuclear power plants is increasing significantly. While the DoD has been granted counter-UAS authorities, recent amendments to the FY26 NDAA are restricting data retention capabilities for intercepted communications and derived data. This limitation hinders the ability to effectively analyze and counter evolving UAS threats.
Laser Photonics and Fonon Technologies Advance Breakthrough Counter-Drone Laser Defense System to Prototyping Phase – Laser Photonics
Laser Photonics and Fonon Technologies are advancing their Laser Shield Anti-Drone System (LSAD) to the prototyping and extended range trials phase after successful initial testing. The LSAD is a mobile, directed-energy weapon designed to counter Groups 1-2 UAS, offering both soft-kill and hard-kill capabilities. The companies are actively seeking integration with existing military infrastructure through partnerships with defense contractors.
Anduril is building AI weapons to challenge America’s defence giants | Dagens.com
Anduril is rapidly emerging as a key defense contractor focused on AI-driven systems and low-cost, rapidly produced weaponry, challenging traditional defense industry giants. The company's core offering, the Lattice AI platform, integrates battlefield sensors and drones into a unified command-and-control network. Recent contracts with the US Air Force, Army, and Australia demonstrate significant growth and Pentagon investment in Anduril's technologies.
Russian Forces Increasingly Target Gas Stations With Long-Range FPV Drones
Russian forces are escalating their targeting of Ukrainian gas stations using long-range First-Person View (FPV) drones, prioritizing range over explosive payload. Ukrainian officials are advising gas station operators to implement physical defenses and electronic warfare units to focus on specific signal characteristics. Recent attacks have resulted in damage to infrastructure, civilian vehicles, and injuries.
Belgian Air Force Tests Counter-Drone Rockets | Govly
The Belgian Air Force successfully tested FZ275 laser-guided rockets fired from F-16AM fighter jets for counter-drone operations, emphasizing precision engagement. Simultaneously, the US NIST is expanding its AI model safety testing program with access to models from Google DeepMind, Microsoft, and xAI to assess national security risks. These developments highlight a dual focus on kinetic and technological solutions to emerging threats.
Belgian F-16 Tests FZ275 Laser-Guided Rockets Against Drones
The Belgian Air Force successfully tested both Thales' FZ275 laser-guided rockets and BAE Systems' AGR-20F FALCO against drones using F-16 fighter jets. These trials demonstrate a move towards employing existing aircraft and munitions for counter-UAS missions, utilizing semi-active laser guidance. The FZ275, with its new FZ123 warhead, is already reportedly in use in Ukraine.