DARPA is entering the first phase of the Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER) program, aimed at revolutionizing energy distribution through airborne wireless power transfer. Three teams — led by RTX Corporation, Draper Laboratory, and BEAM Co. — will design and develop wireless optical power relays. The program goals include demonstrating the key components necessary for a resilient, speed-of-light energy network. Continue reading
Category Archives: News
FAA Authorizes UPS Flight Forward and uAvionix to Operate Drones BVLOS
The FAA authorized two more companies to operate drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). UPS Flight Forward with its Matternet M2 can conduct small package delivery and uAvionix with its Rapace can use the Vantis Network to test its detect and avoid technology. Continue reading
France Delivers 150 Delair Drones to Ukraine
French drone manufacturer Delair sent Ukraine over 150 drones financed by France’s government, Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu reported on Sept. 6. Continue reading
Insitu Announces Kinetic Capability for the Integrator UAS
Insitu, A Boeing Company, announced a munitions program for its Integrator UAS, which adds a highly sought-after strike capability to the platform’s unmatched payload portfolio and class-leading 24-hour flight endurance. Continue reading
Poland Unveils HAASTA Prototype for Drone-on-Drone Warfare
The Polish government hasrolled out a new armed, unmanned aerial vehicle concept aimed at countering smaller drones, known as the HAASTA, to kick off the annual MSPO defense trade show. Continue reading
MIT Trains Drones to Perform Mid-Flight Acrobatics
MIT researchers have created a new algorithm to enable more complex maneuvering capabilities in tailsitter drones. The novel design could have potential applications in search-and-rescue missions, as well as for deliveries in remote or difficult-to-access locations. Continue reading
Morocco to Acquire Turkish Akinci Drones
Morocco has begun talks with the Turkish company Baykar to acquire the Akinci combat drone . This unmanned aircraft entered service in 2021 and is considered the ‘jewel’ of the Turkish military arsenal. Due to its capabilities, other countries such as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have already acquired several units. Continue reading
Ukraine is Now Using AI-Powered Drones
Ukrainian-produced SAKER SCOUT drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology and advanced optics promise to enhance the effectiveness of Ukrainian troops by detecting enemy targets often missed by the human eye, even when hidden under camouflage. Continue reading