Pentagon awards AeroVironment $500M contract for counter-drone technology
By
Drew F. Lawrence
Summary
The Pentagon has awarded a $500 million contract to defense company AeroVironment to procure commercial counter-drone technology for the U.S. military over the next three years. AeroVironment, known for its Switchblade loitering drones and LOCUST directed energy laser, will provide counter-unmanned aerial systems (counter-UAS) capabilities. The contract was listed under the Army section of the Defense Department's contract update, though specific locations and funding details will be determined with each order.
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Key quotes
· 2 pulledThe Pentagon awarded a $500 million contract to AeroVironment, a defense company that makes Switchblade loitering drones and other tech such as the LOCUST directed energy laser, to procure commercial counter-drone technology for the military over the next three years.
While locations and specific funding will be determined with each order, the contract aims to build on defenses against drones, including small unmanned aerial systems.
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