The Pentagon has chosen two firms to accelerate the development of advanced drone interceptors, part of an effort to counter larger, military-grade unmanned systems. Selected under a rapid innovation program, the prototypes will target drones capable of carrying surveillance equipment or weapons. Both firms advanced quickly through design and testing phases, securing further funding to refine their systems and prepare for live-fire trials. The program emphasizes modular, cost-effective designs that integrate easily with existing defense networks, addressing current gaps in air defense where conventional interceptors are too costly and limited for widespread use. This initiative forms part of broader defense modernization, including new counter-drone technologies being tested across multiple services.
