AUSA 2026: CUAS market expands as suppliers target new threats and operational requirements
Kuwait signed a $494 million contract with MARSS for CUAS equipment and support. (Image: MARSS)
New developments from MARSS, MyDefence, Mountain Horse Solutions and Rafael suggest that future counter-drone protection will increasingly depend on combining advanced detection, rapid interception and integrated defensive networks.
Counter-uncrewed aerial system (CUAS) developments were a key feature at this month’s AUSA 2026 exhibition in Washington, DC, with suppliers showcasing a range of approaches that highlighted a shift towards more integrated and adaptable defences against increasingly diverse drone threats.
From a £370 million (US$494 million) contract to deliver nationwide protection for Kuwait to AI-enabled wearable CUAS detectors and the rapid procurement of interceptors for the US Army, the exhibition’s announcements and displays reflected the emerging priorities of the market.
Across the show’s floors several companies showed platform-agnostic guns and canons for air defence while others displayed radars, sensors and turrets designed
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 Land Warfare
-
![US Army seeks CAML-Lite autonomous launcher prototypes for 2027 live-fire trials]()
US Army seeks CAML-Lite autonomous launcher prototypes for 2027 live-fire trials
The optionally crewed, C-130-transportable platforms would combine modular offensive and defensive fires with autonomous resupply, with demonstrations planned for Talisman Sabre 2027.
-
![Integrated approach: transforming vehicle communications for a new era of warfare]()
Integrated approach: transforming vehicle communications for a new era of warfare
In the modern battlespace, military intercom systems can no longer operate in isolation. They must instead be integrated with the wider tactical network, gaining operational advantages through secure communications with dismounted soliders and other assets across domains.
-
![US Army pursues commercial routes to modernise cannon and mortar manufacturing]()
US Army pursues commercial routes to modernise cannon and mortar manufacturing
Watervliet Arsenal’s digital manufacturing push opens opportunities for industry as the US Army modernises cannon production and its wider Organic Industrial Base.
-
![AUSA 2026: Nammo advances 155mm ramjet artillery technology for extended-range fire]()
AUSA 2026: Nammo advances 155mm ramjet artillery technology for extended-range fire
Nammo is developing new artillery ammunition designed to extend firing ranges, combining ramjet propulsion research with conventional, base-bleed and rocket-assisted projectile designs.
-
![AUSA 2026: XM30 competitors keep their cards close as US Army decision approaches]()
AUSA 2026: XM30 competitors keep their cards close as US Army decision approaches
The US Army’s XM30 programme is an ambitious multi-billion-dollar effort to replace Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. American Rheinmetall and General Dynamics Land Systems are fighting for the contract.
-
![AUSA 2026: AM General boss confirms 300-plus JLTV A2s delivered as export orders approach]()
AUSA 2026: AM General boss confirms 300-plus JLTV A2s delivered as export orders approach
The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle programme for the US Marine Corps appears to be making progress, with AM General increasing production of its version while Oshkosh Defense has secured long-lead materials in anticipation of becoming a second supplier.
