Interceptor
CobraJet - VTOL Multirole Jet for C-UAS with Low-Cost Interceptors
“It’s a fighter drone and interceptor that can be armed with air-to-air non-lethal or lethal munitions.
Propulsion
Testing
US Naval Research Laboratory Demonstrates Dual-Use Laser System for Power Beaming and Counter-UAS Operations
U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) scientists successfully demonstrated a dual-use laser system capable of wirelessly transmitting power over long distances and rapidly transitioning to perform defensive missions, advancing expeditionary energy and defense capabilities for future warfighters.
Propulsion
South Korea Launches UAV Engine Development Program
South Korea is preparing to take a key step toward propulsion self-reliance, as Hanwha Aerospace begins ground testing of a homegrown engine for Korean Air’s Low Observable Unmanned Wingman System (LOWUS) stealth drone
Propulsion
China’s 800-Cycle Lithium-Sulfur Battery Could Double Drone Flight Time
A research team led by Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School said it created a new molecular strategy that improves reaction efficiency inside lithium-sulfur batteries while reducing energy loss during operation.
Business
EDGE Group to Acquire Italian Engine Firm CMD
The preliminary agreement with one of the world's leading advanced technology groups has been signed in Atella, at the production hub of the Lucanian company specializing in advanced propulsion systems
Transport
AIRO’s ‘Slowed Rotor’ Hybrid VTOL Long Range Cargo Drone on Show
The aircraft represents a major milestone in the development of AIRO’s heavy-lift, hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft, designed to address critical needs across commercial logistics, defence, and government operations.
Propulsion
First Flight for DARPA’s XRQ-73 Hybrid-Electric Flying Wing Drone
Developed to advance propulsion technologies for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD) program, the XRQ-73 advances next-generation propulsion for lightweight autonomous aircraft
Propulsion
KULR Secures Defence Drone Battery Order with Potential Value of $5M for 2026
The contract for KULR ONE Air highlights growing demand in military UAS and strengthens KULR’s position in a rapidly scaling market
Targets
Kratos and U.S. Army Integrate Kratos J85 Engine into Kratos Firejet Drone System
New, Leading Technology Engine Configuration of Firejet is First-to-Market Tactical Jet UAS in the High-Performance, Affordable sub-$500,000 Class
Propulsion
Kraus Hamdani Demonstrates Extended-Endurance UAS Flight Using Wireless Power Beaming
During the flight, the laser-based system delivered nearly one kilowatt of power to the K1000ULE at altitudes up to 5,000 feet, maintaining Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities and communications in real-time.
Propulsion
Beehive Industries Gets $30M U.S. Air Force Contract by for Frenzy Engine Family Development
Qualification of 3D-printed Frenzy 8 Engine Enables Operational Readiness, Vehicle Integration, and Scalable Production to Meet the Nation’s Surge Demand for Swarm-Class Drones
Propulsion
MTU Aero Engines Acquires AeroDesignWorks to Expand into UAV Propulsion Systems
The acquisition lays the basis for further steps in the UAV segment. MTU combines its extensive engine expertise with the agility of a startup. The acquisition is a key building block in expanding independent European defence capabilities