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.
US Army Pacific unit pursues AI-enabled drone saturation with decoys and EW UAVs
USARPAC’s new 7th Infantry Division Multi-Domain Command–Pacific describes an operational concept to overwhelm adversaries by linking sensor drones to long-range one-way attack drones via an adaptive, agentic C2 system (“soldier-on-the-loop…
Drones: Shahed-136
L3Harris proposes RC-135 Rivet Joint controlling drones for ISR teaming
L3Harris is discussing demonstrations to have RC-135V/W Rivet Joint ISR aircraft team with and potentially control uncrewed platforms via secure datalinks. Using drones as forward collectors could extend sensor reach beyond the radio horizo…
US Army stands up Indo-Pacific Multi-Domain Command with Cross Domain Contact Layer
The US Army created a new Indo-Pacific multi-domain command structure that merges Stryker formations with cyber, space, unmanned systems and electronic warfare under a single headquarters. Central is the proposed Cross Domain Contact Layer …
Russian motorcycle assault with mine-clearing devices and mobile EW near Mala Tokmachka
The post describes a Russian assault using over 30 motorcycles on multiple routes, with some bikes fitted with improvised mine-clearing attachments and others carrying mobile electronic-warfare gear. Using light motorbikes for dispersed ass…
Azov conducts 'middle-strike' drone campaign to disrupt logistics near Mariupol
The post describes a sustained Ukrainian 'middle-strike' campaign by the 1st NGU Corps 'Azov' using UAVs to systematically hit roads, substations, repair facilities and port infrastructure around occupied Mariupol to choke Russian logistics…
Ukrainian drones guide and supply surrendering Russian troops via 'Khochu zhyty'
The post describes a coordinated surrender-exfiltration operation where Ukrainian UAV operators escorted two soldiers along a safe route and provided water, food, and communications support. This reflects an evolving tactic of using drones …
MQ-9B flies with Saab LoyalEye AEW radar pods for first time
The post describes the first flight of an MQ-9B configured as an airborne early warning (AEW) platform using Saab's podded LoyalEye radar, aiming to detect/track aircraft, drones, and missiles. Turning a MALE UAV into a persistent AEW senso…
Drones: MQ-9 Reaper · Shahed-136 · Elbit Hermes 900 Kochav
Russian anti-drone netting ('birdcage') installed around Moscow refinery
The post notes Russia has installed anti-drone netting/cage-like "birdcage" protection around an oil refinery in Moscow to mitigate Ukrainian drone strikes. This is a battlefield-driven adaptation of physical infrastructure protection again…
Drones: FP-1
USAF moves CCA loyal-wingman drones (FQ-42A/FQ-44A) from prototype to production
The U.S. Air Force awarded its first production contracts for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (FQ-42A and FQ-44A), signaling a shift from prototypes to fieldable semi-autonomous 'loyal wingmen' intended to operate alongside crewed fighters. I…
Ukraine expands NCO corps and Mission Command principles through 2027 plan
Ukraine’s General Staff approved a multi-year plan (to end-2027) to expand and professionalize the NCO/sergeant corps, including drill sergeant roles, more NCO billets in staffs, and clearer division of responsibilities between officers and…