The Pentagon has begun accepting the first batches of small, one-way attack drones as part of a major push to integrate these technologies into every military squad by the end of this year. This initiative marks a profound shift in armament strategy, prioritizing the lethal, small-scale systems that have redefined modern warfare.
Ten top vendors begin mass deliveries to the armed forces
The Department of Defense has already placed orders for a total of 20,000 first-person view (FPV) drones from the lead vendors that participated in the Gauntlet 1 competition. Currently, Neros is leading the delivery process with its Archer model, having already had over a thousand units accepted by the military. Other industrial partners are in various stages of production and delivery, aiming for a market share that allows for a steady and rapid supply to troops in the field.
Secretary Pete Hegseth’s directive to remove bureaucratic red tape
The push for this accelerated deployment follows a directive issued last summer by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He called for „unleashing” the drone industrial base and cutting through the red tape that has previously slowed the fielding of modern lethal systems. The Pentagon’s strategy includes investing approximately $1 billion within a two-year window, with the ultimate goal of outfitting every infantry squad with attack drones by the end of fiscal 2026.
The Gauntlet competition and new standards for small-scale lethality
To ensure the highest performance technologies, the Department of Defense has organized rigorous competitions known as Gauntlet, where dozens of companies test their products. In addition to flight platforms, the Pentagon has selected firms specializing in lethal payloads, such as Bravo Ordnance and Northrop Grumman, to equip small drones with precision munitions. The next phase of the program will take place at Camp Grayling, where dozens of new models will be evaluated for tactical assault and long-range strike missions.
Multi-million dollar investments in long-range reconnaissance and strike platforms
In parallel with the procurement of small drones, the military continues to invest in more complex systems. Recently, a $68 million contract was awarded to Griffon Aerospace for the delivery of the Outlaw Gen 3 model. These fixed-wing aircraft, capable of carrying significant payloads, are intended for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. This multi-tiered approach demonstrates the Pentagon’s determination to maintain absolute control over tactical airspace in future operational theaters.
