Michael Robbins, CEO and President of AUVSI, talks with host Randy Goers about the real forces shaping the uncrewed systems industry, from supply chain security and regulatory bottlenecks to the growing influence of defense priorities, and what it all means for the future of autonomy. We’ll also take a closer look at XPONENTIAL 2026 and why it remains a key signal for where the … [Read more...] about Inside the Future of Drones: Policy, Security with Michael Robbins, CEO and President of AUVSI on the Drone Radio Show
defense drones
Near Earth Autonomy Wins MARV-EL Contract for Marine Corps Logistics Drone
Naval Air Systems Command picks the Pittsburgh autonomy specialist to build an uncrewed Bell 505 with Bell Textron, Moog, and XP Services. Naval Air Systems Command has awarded Near Earth Autonomy the Medium Aerial Resupply Vehicle – Expeditionary Logistics (MARV-EL) Increment 2 program. The deal funds a prototype autonomous logistics aircraft for the U.S. Marine Corps. The … [Read more...] about Near Earth Autonomy Wins MARV-EL Contract for Marine Corps Logistics Drone
Elistair Khronos Tethered Drone Joins France’s ORION 2026 Exercise
The automated DroneBox provides persistent aerial surveillance during NATO-style multi-domain operations involving 12,500 troops and 1,200 drones. Elistair's Khronos automated tethered drone is taking part in ORION 2026, France's largest joint military exercise in decades. The French manufacturer announced its participation in Phase O4, which runs April 7 through April … [Read more...] about Elistair Khronos Tethered Drone Joins France’s ORION 2026 Exercise
Can America Build a Fully Domestic Drone? Lithium Discovery Moves the Needle
New USGS findings highlight potential for domestic lithium supply, but key gaps remain in the battery chain A new study from the U.S. Geological Survey suggests that lithium deposits in the eastern United States could meet domestic demand for generations. While the announcement focuses on energy and electric vehicles, it also raises an important question for the drone … [Read more...] about Can America Build a Fully Domestic Drone? Lithium Discovery Moves the Needle
Skydio Raises $110M Series F, Signals Strong Revenue and U.S. Manufacturing Push
CEO Adam Bry highlights reduced capital needs as company expands production and commits billions to domestic manufacturing Skydio has raised $110 million in Series F financing, led by existing investors, bringing the company’s valuation to $4.4 billion. In a LinkedIn post from co-founder and CEO Adam Bry, the leader emphasized a notable shift in the company’s financial … [Read more...] about Skydio Raises $110M Series F, Signals Strong Revenue and U.S. Manufacturing Push
