Skydio launches AI-powered X10D small reconnaissance UAV
X10D can identify points of interest with crosshair coordinates and follow persons of interest. (Photo: Skydio)
Skydio has introduced the X10D, an AI-enhanced UAV boasting 10 times the computing power of its predecessors.
Skydio has released X10D, an AI-enhanced UAV that has appeared to be an updated version of the X2D drone Ukraine has been using since 2022.
The new drone has advanced sensors and is piloted by an advanced AI, according to Skydio. X10D, the manufacturer claimed, features 10 times the computing power of previous iterations.
The UAV was built according to US federal standards, including the Robotics and Autonomous Systems – Air Interoperability Profile and features an open architecture protocol for future compatibility with third-party and state-owned flight application software.
Due to its AI flight assistance and obstacle avoidance capabilities, the drone can fly in more complex environments, while requiring less training due to a reduction in its cognitive load from operators.
X10D can also identify points of interest with crosshair coordinates, follow persons of interest with subject tracking, provide mobile overwatch, and build 2D maps and 3D models onboard in real-time without additional systems.
The UAV has a maximum of 35 minutes and 45 minutes of hover and flight time, respectively.
X2D has been acquired by the US, the UK and New Zealand. The UAV’s manufacturer gifted it to Ukraine with associated training worth up to approximately US$300.000. The UAV was downselected in the US Army’s Short-Range Reconnaissance (SRR) programme in 2022 February and was first fielded as the RQ-28A in November 2022.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) (Tranche 2) / Rucksack Portable UAS (RPUAS) [USA]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![V-22 Osprey safety upgrade moves towards wider fleet installation under $35.5 million deal]()
V-22 Osprey safety upgrade moves towards wider fleet installation under $35.5 million deal
Bell Boeing will supply 73 additional ODSSHI kits as NAVAIR prepares to introduce predictive drive-system monitoring across US and Japanese V-22 fleets.
-
![India’s rotary-wing capability gap grows as IMRH programme delays persist]()
India’s rotary-wing capability gap grows as IMRH programme delays persist
With IMRH and DBMRH potentially years from service, India faces a widening rotary-wing capability gap that could drive further foreign purchases even as HAL and Safran build the foundations of an indigenous successor.
-
![AFA 2026: Swarm Aero eyes 2027 Gamera flight as Textron/Merlin reveal SkyCourier UX]()
AFA 2026: Swarm Aero eyes 2027 Gamera flight as Textron/Merlin reveal SkyCourier UX
Two new uncrewed aircraft concepts target very different US military requirements, from massed long-range strike to autonomous logistics. Shephard spoke with executives from Swarm Aero, Textron Aviation and Merlin Labs at this year's AFA Air, Space & Cyber conference to learn more about their capabilities.
