US military tests AI-powered CUAS turret against drone swarms
US Army drone swarm demonstration in Laoag City, Philippines. (Photo: US Army)
The Pentagon and its agencies are testing the Edda portable, autonomous, artificial intelligence-driven hard-kill counter-uncrewed aerial system (CUAS) turret against drone swarms. Spotter Global and 9 Mothers, the system’s suppliers, claim that it can engage drones at a cost starting at US$7 per target.
Russell Smith, CEO of 9 Mothers, told Shephard that the capability responds to requirements from the US armed services and has completed “a large number” of tests, although he could not disclose further details.
The system has been developed to protect critical infrastructure and warfighters on the move from coordinated, fast-moving, radio-silent first-person-view (FPV) uncrewed aerial
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Country-focused updates
-
US Coast Guard faces key procurement decisions after C-130J and MQ-9B orders
The service is updating several parts of its aviation fleet including fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft and procuring uncrewed aircraft to boost its maritime surveillance.
-
Canada targets 2027 frigate trials for CU179 Peregrine uncrewed helicopter
The Royal Canadian Navy’s CU179 Peregrine will undergo Halifax-class frigate trials in 2027 ahead of initial operational capability in 2028, while River-class destroyer integration arrangements remain undefined.
-
Singapore confirms fully automated SIGMA SPH as new precision-strike system emerges
Singapore has confirmed plans to introduce a fully automated howitzer alongside an emerging precision-strike capability whose weapon type and deployment status have not been disclosed.
-
The US DoD’s counter-drone marketplace begins to produce results
The Pentagon's push to accelerate counter-drone procurement is opening new opportunities for defence companies as it seeks to bring emerging technologies into operational service more quickly.
-
Argentina’s submarine and frigate acquisitions resurface with $3.5bn funding plan
Buenos Aires set out foreign loans worth $3.5 billion in its draft 2027 budget, opening a contest in which Naval Group and TKMS could lead the field.
-
US Pentagon pushes procurement of dismounted counter-UAS capabilities
The US services are investing in lighter, autonomous and networked systems to protect mobile troops from drone threats.