Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
U.S. Army Awards ThinKom $49 Million for Mobile High-Power Microwave Drone Defense System
The U.S. Army has awarded ThinKom Solutions a prototype contract valued at up to $49 million to develop a mobile high-power microwave system aimed at countering drones. Announced on August 19, 2026, this contract will fund the testing of ThinKom’s Alecto system, which is designed to target unmanned aircraft from a moving vehicle. This initiative is significant as it addresses the increasing demand for mobile counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) due to the rapid proliferation of drones. The Alecto system utilizes ThinKom’s patented VICTS antenna technology to deliver high-power electromagnetic energy to neutralize Group 1 and Group 2 unmanned aircraft, enabling Army units to respond to threats without halting their operations. Field testing of the Alecto system is scheduled for 2027, allowing the Army to evaluate its performance against emerging drone threats. The results will inform future requirements and potential production decisions, although the current agreement does not guarantee procurement of additional systems beyond the prototype phase.
Military
Lockheed Martin Launches Morfius X-rotor, a Reusable Microwave Drone Countermeasure
Lockheed Martin has introduced the Morfius X-rotor, a reusable airborne counter-drone system capable of neutralizing over 50 UAVs in a single mission. Utilizing high-power microwave technology, this system targets and disrupts the electronics of multiple drones simultaneously, making it effective against swarm attacks. The significance of the Morfius X-rotor lies in its ability to maintain low operational costs while delivering high kill rates. As drone swarms increasingly threaten modern military operations, this system offers a cost-effective solution that can be integrated with existing battlefield infrastructure, enhancing its deployment across various military units. Looking ahead, Lockheed Martin is expediting the production of the Morfius platform and its microwave payload, with plans for further flight demonstrations following successful tests in Arizona, California, and Oklahoma. The company aims to enhance the system's capabilities and readiness for deployment in diverse operational environments.
Military
US Marine Corps Awards $11 Million Contract for Epirus' HAVOC Microwave Weapon System
The US Marine Corps has awarded Epirus an $11 million contract for the HAVOC system, a vehicle-mounted high-power microwave weapon designed to disable drone swarms. This system is derived from Epirus' Leonidas weapon and will be integrated into both manned and unmanned Marine Corps vehicles, enhancing their counter-drone capabilities. The HAVOC system represents a significant advancement in the Marine Corps' efforts to combat drone threats, providing three times the power and improved range compared to its predecessor, the Expeditionary Directed Energy Counter-Swarm system (ExDECS). This capability allows for simultaneous electronic effects against multiple drones, ensuring effective protection for high-value assets and personnel. Looking ahead, the HAVOC system's software-driven architecture will enable continuous updates to counter evolving drone technologies. The universal sled mount design will facilitate its deployment across various Marine Corps vehicles, enhancing operational flexibility. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
Black Recon ‘microdrone’ system unveiled by Teledyne FLIR
A new drone weighing under 450 grams has been launched, boasting an impressive flight time of up to one hour and a maximum speed of approximately 55 miles per hour. This innovative technology aims to enhance aerial capabilities for both recreational and professional users. The drone's lightweight design and extended flight duration make it suitable for a variety of applications, including photography, surveillance, and delivery services. The company behind the drone emphasizes its potential to revolutionize the way users engage with aerial tasks, providing a versatile tool that combines speed and efficiency. As the demand for advanced drone technology continues to grow, this latest offering is positioned to meet the needs of a diverse market.
Global Land Warfare Army Drones Europe EUROSATORY 2026Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
Join the RobotToday community on LinkedIn
Daily robotics news, in-depth analysis, conference highlights, and discussions with professionals worldwide.
