Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Saildrone and Lockheed Martin Enhance Autonomous Naval Warfare with RIMPAC Missile Launch
Saildrone successfully executed two Joint Air-to-Ground Missile launches from its Surveyor unmanned surface vehicle (USV) during the US Navy's Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first-ever missile launch from a Saildrone USV, showcasing the integration of Saildrone's technology with Lockheed Martin's missile capabilities. The demonstration is crucial as it highlights the potential of autonomous systems in modern naval warfare, allowing for extended operational capabilities in contested environments. The collaboration between Saildrone and Lockheed Martin, initiated in October 2025, aims to enhance the operational readiness of unmanned platforms, providing commanders with the necessary tools to project power effectively. Looking ahead, Saildrone plans to further develop its platform capabilities to meet evolving military requirements. The successful integration of electronic warfare sensors during the RIMPAC exercise also indicates the potential for future enhancements in autonomous naval operations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
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US Army selects THOR autonomous VTOL drone soldiers can carry for frontline warfare
The U.S. Army has announced the selection of a new small unmanned aircraft system aimed at enhancing its aerial capabilities. This decision, made public in October 2023, underscores the Army's commitment to modernizing its technology and improving operational efficiency. The new system is expected to provide advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, allowing for better situational awareness on the battlefield. By integrating cutting-edge technology, the Army aims to maintain a strategic advantage in various operational environments. The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving military needs and challenges, ensuring that troops are equipped with the best tools available for mission success.
Autonomous Defense Startup Scout AI Raises $100M Series A to Build Foundation Model for Unmanned Warfare
Scout AI, a defense-focused artificial intelligence startup, has successfully secured $100 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round aimed at advancing its foundation model for autonomous military operations. The funding, which was co-led by Align Ventures and Draper Associates, attracted investments from several notable firms including Decisive Point, Booz Allen Ventures, BVVC, Neman Ventures, Evolution VC Partners, and Heraclitus Capital Management, among others. This significant financial backing will enable Scout AI to enhance its technological capabilities and accelerate the development of solutions designed to improve military efficiency and effectiveness. The funding round reflects growing interest and investment in AI technologies within the defense sector, highlighting the increasing reliance on advanced technology for national security operations.
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Teledyne Demonstrates Autonomous System for Anti-Submarine Warfare to NATO Members in the North Atlantic
Teledyne Technologies Incorporated recently showcased its advanced capabilities in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) through a demonstration conducted in Icelandic waters from January 17 to January 22. The event featured the deployment of several state-of-the-art autonomous underwater vehicles, including the Slocum Sentinel Glider, equipped with a 60-meter-long passive acoustic towed array, and the Slocum G3 Glider, which integrates Teledyne Benthos acoustic communications technology. Additionally, two Advanced Profiling Explorer (APEX) floats were utilized, each fitted with ambient noise Passive Acoustic Monitoring systems. This demonstration highlights Teledyne's commitment to enhancing maritime security and underwater surveillance capabilities in response to evolving defense needs.
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Saildrone and Thales Australia Demonstrate Game-changing Capability for Autonomous Anti-Submarine Warfare
Saildrone, a leader in maritime autonomy, has partnered with Thales Australia to successfully integrate the BlueSentry thin-line towed array with the Saildrone Surveyor, resulting in a pioneering system designed for autonomous long-endurance undersea maritime domain awareness (MDA). This innovative project, backed by funding from the Office of Naval Research (ONR), represents a significant advancement in the field of persistent, real-time undersea surveillance. The collaboration aims to enhance the capabilities of maritime operations by providing continuous monitoring of underwater environments, thereby improving security and situational awareness in naval operations. The demonstration highlights the potential for autonomous systems to revolutionize maritime surveillance and response strategies.
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