December Drone Digest: Germany, Australia and US champion indigenous UAV production
Twister is a short-range eVTOL small UAS designed for ISR operations. (Photo: Quantum Systems)
One of the key trends seen in December has been the rise in indigenous investment within the UAV market, particularly across certain countries, with Germany, Australia and the US focusing on their commitments to sovereign development.
A growing focus on investment in domestically produced systems has been a notable trend observed over the past month within the drone industry, as customer countries seek to acquire new capabilities while also investing in their sovereign capabilities. Not only does this bring obvious economic benefits to the country in question, but it also makes supply chains more resilient to international disruption, including instability caused by tariffs.
In December, Germany exemplified this approach. Quantum Systems, primarily based in Germany, won the tender to supply the German Armed Forces with its Twister uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), serving as a successor to the ALADIN, as announced by
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs
Shephard spoke with Rafael’s CEO about the company’s effector offerings as well as his perspective on one-way attack drones.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon]()
World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon
L3Harris has completed the production candidate software load for its Viper Shield airborne electronic warfare system and is conducting sea trials with its VAMPIRE counter-drone system.
-
![Singapore Airshow: Red Cat ramps up portfolio development amid “key” APAC opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow: Red Cat ramps up portfolio development amid “key” APAC opportunities
In the wake of its 1,842% year-on-year revenue increase in Q4 2025, Red Cat sees mass opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region as the company eyes an ongoing production increase and market growth.
