Innovations
Technological and operational innovations in the UAS and counter-UAS space — what emerged first, where, and what it changes. Each entry is sourced, dated, and linked to the drones involved.
Ursa Major 'Havoc' hypersonic missile concept with 3D-printed propulsion
The post describes Ursa Major’s Havoc hypersonic missile concept featuring a unique 3D-printed propulsion system and an additive-manufacturing approach aimed at rapidly scaling production. It also highlights additive-manufactured, modular s…
Su-57 seen with external short-range AAMs and possible new targeting pod
Photos show a Russian Su-57 carrying externally mounted short-range R-73/R-74 missiles—unusual given its internal bays—and what appears to be a previously unseen targeting/EO pod under the left engine nacelle. The configuration is assessed …
Drones: Elbit Hermes 450
Ukrainian Sea Baby USV used as FPV drone launch platform (incl. fiber-optic FPVs)
The article describes Ukraine adapting its Sea Baby uncrewed surface vessel into a mothership that carries and launches 6–8 FPV attack drones from onboard compartments, extending strike reach beyond the coastline. It also notes some embarke…
Drones: Sea Baby
Merops interceptor drone reportedly used to down Shahed/Geran in Ukraine
The post describes apparent combat use of Perennial Autonomy’s Merops low-cost interceptor drone against Shahed/Geran one-way attack drones, with an analyst calling it the first public video of such an engagement. Merops’ ability to home us…
US pursues hybrid-electric light vehicles to power 20kW-class laser C-UAS
The post describes the U.S. Army/Marine Corps shift toward mounting counter-drone high-energy lasers (e.g., 20 kW LOCUST/AMP-HEL) on light tactical vehicles (ISV/JLTV) and solving the key battlefield constraint—power spikes—via hybrid archi…
EUROGUARD 45m semi-autonomous modular patrol vessel prototype hull unveiled
The EU-funded EUROGUARD M-SASV program has passed Critical Design Review and presented a 45-meter semi-autonomous modular surface vessel prototype hull, indicating a move toward operational testing. The platform is designed for multi-missio…
Drones: Shark
Composite superstructure delivered for Singapore Navy MRCV mothership
Saab/Penguin delivered the first composite superstructure and mast for Singapore’s new MRCV, using composite construction to reduce weight and radar cross-section. The MRCV is also designed as a mothership for unmanned systems, indicating a…
UK DIP outlines RN hybrid fleet with new uncrewed platform types (Type 91-94)
The UK Defence Investment Plan describes a Royal Navy “hybrid” force structure built around four new uncrewed maritime platform types (Type 92 UUV, Type 93 XLUUV, Type 94 uncrewed sensing platform, Type 91 uncrewed missile platform) tied to…
Ukrainian drones reportedly scatter explosive devices over Rylsk squares
The post claims Ukrainian UAVs dispersed explosive devices over two city squares, implying a drone-delivered scatterable mine/IED payload for area denial and delayed casualties. This is notable as a tactical use of drones beyond direct stri…
Ukraine signs deal for Gripen fighters and Meteor-capable air-to-air integration
The post claims Ukraine signed an agreement to receive Gripen fighters (C/D as aid and E via purchase) and highlights the Meteor missile capability, implying a future long-range air-to-air engagement upgrade. While not a frontline tactic, i…