Skydio, a leader in autonomous drone technology in the U.S., has announced its progression into the final phase of the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Tranche 2 program. The company aims to provide the advanced Skydio X10D small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) for this initiative.
Building on Previous Success
Skydio has been a key player in the SRR program since November 2021, equipping U.S. soldiers with the Skydio X2D. The deployment of these U.S.-manufactured drones has enhanced situational awareness and security across various defense applications. The new Skydio X10D is set to build on this foundation, offering further advancements in drone capabilities for the military.
Skydio X10D: A Leap in Military Drone Technology
The Skydio X10D represents a significant advancement in drone technology for defense and government applications. It boasts high-performance sensors and unparalleled autonomy, making it suitable for a wide range of industries including defense, public safety, and utilities.
A key feature of the Skydio X10D is its NightSense technology, enabling autonomous flight and obstacle avoidance in zero-light environments. This feature, combined with a FLIR Boson+ sensor, provides high-quality thermal imaging and accurate radiometric readings, enhancing mission effectiveness regardless of the time of day.
Compliance and Versatility
The Skydio X10D aligns with federal standards, including the Robotics and Autonomous Systems – Air (RAS-A) Interoperability Profile (IoP), and offers an open, modular platform supportive of third-party applications. Its compliance with RAS-A and open MAVLINK protocol facilitates the use of various flight application software, while modular ports enhance in-field versatility.
Expanding Military Engagement
Skydio’s involvement in the SRR program is part of a broader engagement with the U.S. military. The company has collaborated closely with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to streamline the acquisition of autonomous drones for the Department of Defense (DoD). They have also established a National Defense Authorization Act-compliant supply chain to ensure trustworthy sourcing for large-scale production.
Looking Ahead
As Skydio prepares to deliver the Skydio X10D to service members, the company remains committed to supporting U.S. military branches with advanced sUAS systems. This partnership not only aims to bolster national security but also showcases the potential of cutting-edge autonomous drone technology in military operations.
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