The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth
Total annual drone spending has increased nearly sixfold since the start of the decade, from $2.9 billion in 2020 to $16.3 billion in 2028, with Europe leading the rise.
The in-service Praetorian system has been installed on the Typhoon for more than 30 years. (Photo: Crown Copyright)
The EuroDASS consortium, which consists of partners Leonardo, ELT Group, Indra and Hensoldt, have revealed details on the next-generation electronic warfare for the Eurofighter Typhoon.
The next-generation EW system will, according to the partnership, futureproof the Typhoon against new and emerging threats from 2060 onwards. The key features of the EW system will reportedly include Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) capabilities and the provision of interfaces for an external, high-powered electronic attack pod for Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD) missions – the latter a key NATO requirement.
According to the consortium, this new system will be a retrofit option for Typhoon’s Defensive Aids Sub-Systems (DASS) which is currently in service. It will also reportedly impose no restrictions on the current flight envelope or impact the Typhoon’s outer mould line.
Italy’s ELT Group recently disclosed details of several of its EW initiatives, including the development of the new Praetorian DASS for the Typhoon back in July 2024. The system is also being upgraded to ensure integration with the Typhoon’s AESA radar options, including the European Common Radar System (ECRS).
The EuroDASS consortium has already completed some development work on the next-gen system, which includes the Praetorian eVolution concepting phase and flight trials of component parts.
Total annual drone spending has increased nearly sixfold since the start of the decade, from $2.9 billion in 2020 to $16.3 billion in 2028, with Europe leading the rise.
The US Air Force is seeking additional contractors to support communications upgrades for the B-52, while multiple Stratofortress modernisation programmes continue to experience delays, cost growth and technical challenges.
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.