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Orqa Unveils the MRM2-10AI at Eurosatory: A Tactical Drone Designed to Dominate in the Age of Electronic Warfare

Thursday, June 11th, 2026

Onboard compute platform ready to run customer supplied or third party AI models
Hybrid communications architecture with IRONghost radio control and native fibre optic plus automatic failover
Vision based terminal guidance for GNSS-denied operations
Optional advanced thermal imaging

PARIS, June 11, 2026 — Orqa – Europe’s leading developer and manufacturer of drones made without Chinese components – today announces the launch of the MRM2-10AI, a next-generation tactical drone purpose-built for contested battlefield environments and the realities of modern electronic warfare.

With armed forces increasingly facing radio-frequency jamming, GNSS disruption, and electronic attack, the MRM2-10AI sets a new standard in resilient communications, intelligent autonomy, and mission continuity, enabling it to succeed where conventional drone systems struggle.

Orqa MM2-10AI the new hybrid communication channel, high performance drone.

At the heart of the platform is a hybrid communications architecture combining Orqa’s proven IRONghost radio control system with native fiber-optic integration and automatic communications failover. This enables the MRM2-10AI to use either communication method without platform reconfiguration and instantly transition to the radio-frequency link if the fiber-optic connection is broken.

The MRM2-10AI features a powerful new Auto Pilot Board that unlocks a series of cutting-edge autonomous capabilities, including vision-based terminal guidance for GNSS-denied operations, advanced computer vision applications, battlefield analytics, and collaborative multi-drone operations.

A fully open development architecture and a supported third-party Developer Program (developer.orqafpv.com) provides a foundation for AI capabilities and software solutions, while ATAK compatibility supports seamless integration with existing battlefield management and situational awareness systems.

“As the nature of warfare continues to evolve, drone operators require systems that can remain effective in contested spaces,” said Srdjan Kovacevic, co-founder and CEO of Orqa. “The MRM2-10AI combines resilient communications, onboard intelligence, and autonomous capability in a platform designed to keep missions moving. It represents the next step in tactical drone capability for today’s armed forces.”

Available in multiple configurations to meet a variety of mission requirements – including variants equipped with advanced thermal imaging and enhanced processing capabilities – the MRM2-10AI is being officially launched at Eurosatory 2026, the global event for defence and security in Paris.

Posted in Drone, Press Release | No Comments »

USMC UH-1s Become Drone Control Platforms

Friday, June 5th, 2026

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. —

In a significant leap forward for aerial warfare, the U.S. Marine Corps has successfully integrated its iconic H-1 helicopter fleet with advanced, low-cost drone technology, demonstrating a new and lethal capability for the modern battlefield. During a recent exercise, Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 169, Marine Air Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1stMarine Division, showcased the ability of the UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper helicopters to act as airborne motherships, extending the reach and lethality of first-person view drones to strike targets from unprecedented distances.

“The primary objective was to test the feasibility of a non-kinetic drop and deployment of a first-person view drone from a moving helicopter, which we were able to do today,” said Capt. Quinton Thornbury, a UH-1Y Venon pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 169, Marine Air Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. “From there, validate that we can control the maneuver of that drone from the back of the aircraft.”

The exercise tested a critical battlefield scenario where ground forces from 3rd LAR launched a Neros Archer FPV drone. Once airborne, control of the drone was seamlessly handed off to a specialized operator team inside a UH-1Y Venom helicopter orbiting safely miles away. The Venom, leveraging its superior altitude and mobility, became a flying command post, directing the drone to its target and validating the aircraft’s role as an aerial control station.

This utilization of drones alongside manned aircraft is designed to counter the growing danger of more sophisticated air defense systems that force helicopters to operate from farther away, limiting their effectiveness. By pairing the H-1’s endurance and perspective with the drone’s speed and expendability, the Marine Corps is taking the next step the integration of drones on the battlefield.

This tactic allows us to keep our air crews safe and sound while pushing the lethal edge of the battlefield out to where the enemy is.

“We are still providing our ground support, and close air support, but in a way that lets the drones close with and destroy the enemy, rather than putting our Marines in harm’s way.” Sgt. Matthew Pocklington, a UH-1Y crew chief, with HMLA-169, MAG-39, 3rd MAW

Blending the strengths of a proven aviation platform with an agile, attritable weapon. It gives commanders a scalable, cost-effective option to service a wide range of threats without risking the aircraft or expending expensive munitions on every target.

The Neros Archer, already the most common FPV system in the Marine Corps infantry, was selected for its proven performance and existing logistical support, which accelerates integration.

The successful demonstration proved the viability of using FPV drones as a remote extension of the helicopter’s own sensors and weapons. The small, precise nature of the drones also minimizes collateral damage, a critical risk factor in complex environments. By enabling helicopter formations to detect, target, and engage everything from enemy armor to maritime craft from a safe distance, this innovation ensures the H-1 platform will remain a dominant and relevant force on the battlefields of tomorrow.

By 2ndLt Connor Jenig | I Marine Expeditionary Force

Posted in Aviation, Drone, Guest Post, USMC | No Comments »

Mountain Horse Solutions Selected for Drone Dominance Program Phase II Qualifier

Wednesday, May 27th, 2026

SARASOTA, FL – (May 26, 2026) – Mountain Horse Solutions, a Global Ordnance company focused on mission-critical support, unmanned systems, and integrated defense solutions, in partnership with AG3 Labs and Draganfly, has been selected to participate in the Drone Dominance Program Phase II Qualifier in June 2026 at Camp Grayling, Michigan.

“Being selected to compete in Phase II of the Drone Dominance Program is a testament to our approach to rapid, scalable drone production,” said Bill Allen, president of Mountain Horse Solutions. “We’re proud to demonstrate capabilities that support the warfighter in the complex operational environments that define modern conflict.”

The companies received invitations for multiple mission areas and drone platforms:

Mission Area A with the Flex FPV drone
Mission Area B with the SPADE drone and the Flex FPV drone

Mission Area A focuses on long-range strike capabilities designed to identify and engage targets at ranges of 5–20 kilometers beyond visual line of sight, while Mission Area B focuses on close-quarters tactical operations in environments such as buildings, trenches, and tunnels at ranges under 2 kilometers. Both mission areas require systems capable of operating in all-weather, low-light, and contested electromagnetic environments where radio frequency (RF) and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) may be disrupted.

The SPADE and Flex platforms were developed to support modern tactical operations, combining autonomous navigation, modular payload configurations, swarm-ready architecture, and low operator overhead. The mission-ready FPV systems are designed for rapid deployment in complex operational environments.

“Being selected as a Phase II qualifier for Drone Dominance is validation of what we’ve been building toward — attritable, American-made systems purpose-built for exactly this kind of high-stakes operational environment,” said Nick Smock, head of strategy at AG3 Labs. “We’re proud to be competing alongside Mountain Horse Solutions, a partner who shares our commitment to getting the right capabilities into warfighters’ hands fast.”

“Draganfly is honored to have been down-selected by the Drone Dominance Program in partnership with Mountain Horse Solutions and Global Ordnance,” said Cameron Chell, CEO and president of Draganfly. “We look forward to the next round of work and progressing our operationally proven model forward within the program.”

The Drone Dominance Program is expected to award up to $1.1 billion in prototype delivery orders across four phases, with a goal of delivering more than 300,000 drones to U.S. forces by 2027. Participating companies will be evaluated through live qualification events focused on production readiness, military utility, and supply chain resilience.

Phase II is designed to assess operationally relevant unmanned aerial systems capable of supporting modern battlefield requirements at scale, including operations in contested electromagnetic environments and beyond visual line of sight. Following the qualifier event, approximately five vendors from each mission area are expected to advance to the next phase of the program and receive prototype delivery orders.

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Hand-Picked to Lead: U.S. Army Capt McMurrin Builds Launched Effects Battery and Brings UAS Capability to the 2d Cavalry Regiment

Wednesday, May 27th, 2026

BEMOWO PISKIE TRAINING AREA, Poland – U.S. Army Capt. Harold McMurrin quickly stood out in the Field Artillery Squadron (FAS), 2d Cavalry Regiment (2CR), for his technical skills and innovative ideas. As commander of the Launched Effects “Demon” Battery, he was tasked with building the unit from scratch and introduced advanced\, unmanned aerial systems — remotely piloted aircraft with cameras and sensors — to the regiment. His experience, leadership, and vision have placed the Launched Effects Battery at the center of the Army’s modernization efforts.

“He’s got a long, varied background… very smart, very growth-minded,” U.S. Army Lt. Col. Steven Huckleberry, commander, FAS, 2CR. “Giving him this ambiguous problem set and creating a new capability that fills a gap — he’s the right person for this.”

Huckleberry said McMurrin was hand-selected six months ago to form and lead the unit, tasked with implementing multiple unmanned armed systems within 2CR’s FAS.

McMurrin graduated from the Cavalry Leaders Course and served as a squadron fire support officer (FSO). He brings reconnaissance, armor, and fire support experience. This mix helped him build a functional battery from limited equipment and an ambiguous mission set.

Throughout the combined-arms live-fire exercise during Saber Strike at the Bemowo Piskie Training Area (BPTA), Poland, McMurrin was seen testing drones with his team, conducting arms rehearsals and moving between the tactical operations center (TOC) and the field.

These early actions highlighted McMurrin’s hands-on approach and commitment to integrating advanced technologies into real-world training. His visible leadership during Saber Strike not only demonstrated the potential of UAS in a dynamic environment, but also set the tone for how Demon Battery would operate under his command.

His unique role — possibly the only one in the Army — means he wears two hats: commanding the launch effects battery and, filling a staff position in the TOC, managing the regiment’s firefight as the assistant FSO.

McMurrin’s path into field artillery is a family tradition. Both his mother and father served as field artillery officers, and he has served for eight years in the Army. He held prior jobs as a biologist and a truck driver before committing to a career in the military.

He participated in exercise Saber Strike, a multinational training event, while his first sergeant and other Soldiers of the battery took part in Project Flytrap 5.0, a joint initiative at the Pabrad? Training Area, Lithuania.

Launched Effects Battery’s first sergeant, 1st Sgt. Mohammad Bihamta said, “Capt. McMurrin is a key contributor to the regiment’s success during Saber Strike 26 and Flytrap. His ability to connect teams, systems, and capabilities across the formation ensures Demon Battery delivers effects that directly support the regiment’s mission. He thrives in complex environments. He leverages relationships and a persistent, solutions-oriented mindset to overcome friction and maintain momentum.”

Across the regiment and U.S. Army Europe, launched effects batteries like “Demon” Battery and another in the 25th Infantry Division are among a growing number of units experimenting with UAS integration in field artillery.

McMurrin stated that the work done during Saber Strike and associated experiments helps shape standard operating procedures and informs how emerging technologies will be employed in future engagements.

Both Project Flytrap and Saber Strike, part of Sword 26, are exercises that turn investment into capability. Soldiers integrate unmanned systems such as AI-enabled command and control and live data networks to move, decide, and fight more effectively across all domains. Sword 26 demonstrates how U.S. Army Europe and Africa drives transformation at scale while strengthening deterrence.

Thanks to McMurrin’s dedication and strong communication skills within the battery, the Launched Effects Battery demonstrated precision during Saber Strike. In just six months since creation, they used several types of reconnaissance drones: medium, long-range, short-range, and a few first-person-view drones. This showcased the battery’s strength and versatility.

“UAS provides the Soldier on the ground the ability to look further than ground-based sensors have, so further than their binoculars, their mark-one eyeball (eyes), the sights on their weapons, and other sensors that they carry on their person,” said McMurrin. “It lets them go further; it lets them naturally go beyond terrain that would block their view, the other side of a hill, the other side of a wood line and it lets them see the enemy before the enemy can gain ground and observe them.”

His role as commander of the battery is essential to providing this type of support to the troops of the Field Artillery Squadron of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment.

“The regimental operating concept is to be able to deploy and fight upon arrival,” McMurrin said. “Training in Poland and Lithuania simulates the conditions the regiment could face if employed in crisis, whether for deterrence, presence, or combat operations.”

By SSG Emilie Lenglain

Posted in Army, Drone, Fires, Forces Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on Hand-Picked to Lead: U.S. Army Capt McMurrin Builds Launched Effects Battery and Brings UAS Capability to the 2d Cavalry Regiment

Red Cat Closes Acquisition of Quaze Technologies

Thursday, May 21st, 2026

ACQUISITION ADDS WIRELESS POWER CAPABILITY TO RED CAT’S ALL-DOMAIN SYSTEMS, REMOVING A CRITICAL BOTTLENECK TO PERSISTENT AUTONOMOUS OPERATIONS ACROSS AIR, LAND AND MARITIME ENVIRONMENTS

SALT LAKE CITY, May 20, 2026 — Red Cat Holdings, Inc.(Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based provider of advanced all-domain drone and robotic solutions for defense and national security, today announced it has acquired Quaze Technologies Inc. (“Quaze”), a Québec-based developer of wireless power transfer technology for unmanned systems, drones and autonomous machines.

Quaze will operate as an independent Red Cat business unit, continuing to develop and scale its wireless power architecture for integration across Red Cat’s Family of Systems, while maintaining its platform-agnostic model supporting third-party OEMs across air, ground and maritime domains.

The acquisition addresses one of the most significant remaining barriers to true robotic autonomy: power. While unmanned systems have rapidly advanced in autonomy, navigation and mission execution, most still rely on manual battery swaps or precise, connector-based charging systems that are difficult to deploy reliably in contested or harsh environments. Quaze’s technology enables systems to recharge autonomously, extending mission duration while reducing operator burden and exposure.

At the core of Quaze’s platform is its QU6 electronic architecture, which enables large surfaces to function as wireless energy access points and can be embedded across a wide range of platforms and environments. Unlike traditional charging approaches, the system does not require precise alignment, physical connectors or direct contact between transmitter and receiver, allowing systems to access power even in the presence of debris, sand, ice or snow. By eliminating moving mechanical parts, the architecture reduces failure points and enables reliable operation in real-world field conditions where conventional solutions often break down.

“Autonomous systems are only as effective as their ability to stay in the fight,” said Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat. “Quaze gives us a critical advantage by removing one of the biggest operational constraints, which is how systems recharge in the field. This enables longer-duration missions, supports distributed operations across air, land and sea, and strengthens our ability to deliver fully integrated, all-domain solutions for the warfighter.”

Quaze’s technology can be deployed across a wide range of environments and platforms, including vehicle-mounted systems, drone-in-a-box solutions, uncrewed surface vessels, fixed infrastructure and underwater charging stations. This enables new operational concepts such as vehicle-based “mothership” deployments, distributed charging networks and persistent operations across complex terrain, borders, infrastructure corridors and maritime environments.

Red Cat expects Quaze to play an important role in expanding its all-domain capabilities, particularly as the Company advances further into maritime systems and multi-platform autonomy. The ability to integrate wireless charging into uncrewed surface vessels and other mobile platforms creates new opportunities for persistent drone operations, including swarming, extended ISR missions and autonomous deployment cycles.

The acquisition also expands Red Cat’s addressable market by introducing a new revenue channel beyond its own platforms. Quaze’s technology is designed for seamless integration into third-party systems as an embedded power capability, enabling adoption across a broad range of robotics platforms. This platform-agnostic approach positions Quaze as a potential standard for wireless power across the unmanned systems ecosystem, allowing Red Cat to generate revenue from systems it does not manufacture while accelerating adoption of autonomous technologies.

“Robotics has made major advances in autonomy and intelligence, but energy has remained a limiting factor,” said Xavier Bidaut, Co-founder of Quaze Technologies. “Our goal is to make power as accessible and reliable as fuel is for traditional vehicles and something every drone or robot can tap into, anywhere, without friction. By joining Red Cat, we can accelerate that vision and help establish a common power infrastructure for autonomous systems across industries.”

Quaze’s technology has been demonstrated across multiple robotic platforms, including aerial drones, ground systems and autonomous underwater vehicles, and is currently being evaluated for a wide range of dual use applications. The Company’s focus on simplicity, ease of integration and operational resilience has enabled rapid adoption across early partners and positions it to scale alongside the newest innovations in autonomous systems.

Posted in Comms, Drone, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Red Cat Closes Acquisition of Quaze Technologies

Aerial Intel and Tech Adaptation: 2nd Cavalry Regiment Tests Innovative Drone Technologies at Saber Strike 26

Thursday, May 21st, 2026

Bemowo Piskie, Poland — On May 7, 2026, at Bemowo Piskie Training Area in Poland, three Soldiers from the U.S. Army’s 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2CR) tested a Group 3 unmanned aircraft system (UAS) with a vendor during the Saber Strike combined arms live-fire exercise (CALFEX) to explore a potential partnership.

A Group 3 UAS weighs greater than 55 pounds and can fly longer distances than smaller sized systems.

“This Saber Strike CALFEX is showing that right now our platoons have a Group 3 asset, where they’re able to communicate with the intel cell and the fire cell,” said 1st Lt. Ethan Moore, UAS platoon leader, 409th Military Intelligence Company, 2CR. “Our drone can cue on the fire’s assets and call for fire on enemy positions at a greater distance than we’ve had before.”

At the CALFEX, Moore was joined by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Dalton Kastner, the standardization officer, and Spc. Mason Tomplait, the drone operator. The trio met with the Group 3 UAS vendor to evaluate its technology.

There are many advantages to utilizing a Group 3 UAS, which is considered medium-sized among drone capabilities

“Our short-range reconnaissance drones only go from five to seven kilometers; a medium-range reconnaissance might go 30 or more,” said Moore.

The RQ 7B Shadow is what Kastner knows to be the U.S. Army’s medium-sized drone for roughly 20 years.

Comparing this updated medium-sized drone to the Shadow, Kastner said, “This system has extremely similar capabilities, with a much smaller footprint and a much smaller weight, and for me, that’s a positive. This system also has the vertical takeoff and landing, or VTOL kit, so it’s able to just take off straight up and then transition into forward movement.”

After the drone flew out, mission sets were sent to Moore, who coordinated with Tomplait in control of the gimbal camera on the system.

In real time, they could fly to specific areas of the training area and confirm friendly forces, possible enemy camps and target accuracy – all part of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR).

Today, ISR relies more on machine-driven intelligence rather than the previously human-centered model.

“They’re able to get that long range, very good camera view to see the targets on the ground, to provide accurate targeting grids for us to push fires and to get faster reports,” explained Kastner, “to make those jumps even quicker with accurate and rapid intelligence.”

The combat-support training exercise lasted around 41 hours.

“They’ll be able to use infrared capabilities, and we’ll be able to do everything at night as well,” said Kastner.

With eight years of experience with drones, Kastner feels that the drone was easy to put together and use.

“They even have the controller for manipulating the camera and some of the programmable features in the camera as well, so it’s very user friendly,” said Kastner.

Moore, who’s also an intelligence officer, said the Army needs equipment like this in order for intel cells to find the enemy.

Moore added, “Not only is this craft able to fill a regimental gap in intelligence collection, but it’s also something that’s valid and capable in today’s conflict that we need to enable us for the intelligence collection and fires.”

Moore said when choosing a vendor, they must be able to modify and adapt as new technologies and capabilities emerge.

After departing Poland to evaluate other vendors’ drone systems, Moore and his team went to Project Flytrap in Lithuania — part of a series of exercises (including Sword 26, Saber Strike, Immediate Response, and Swift Response) that turn experimentation into capability.

Project Flytrap is a counter-unmanned aerial system exercise designed to integrate emerging technologies and inform future Army requirements and doctrine.

The Army stays innovative by partnering with vendors and the UAS industry, alongside the real-world feedback from Soldiers.

By SSG Emilie Lenglain

Posted in Army, Drone, Guest Post, ISR | Comments Off on Aerial Intel and Tech Adaptation: 2nd Cavalry Regiment Tests Innovative Drone Technologies at Saber Strike 26

MOHOC Introduces Optac: NDAA-Compliant, Multi-Spectrum UAV Optics

Monday, May 18th, 2026

MOHOC, Inc., world leader in tactical helmet cameras, is leveraging its first-person imaging expertise into the booming FPV drone market with the launch of Optac™ cameras.

UAV platforms in the US (and increasingly abroad) are required to install NDAA-compliant components – most critically, non-Chinese electronics. Optac™, an NDAA audited and US assembled drone camera, addresses this mandate directly.

Compliance, however, is only the baseline. Dynamic mission capability is the differentiator. The Optac™ integrates daylight, low-light, and infrared imaging into a single camera system with a removeable IR filter cap. It eliminates the need for multiple sensors or payload trade-offs while enabling continuous operation across changing light conditions.

The patent-pending Optac™ also delivers ultra-low latency video output and is compatible with existing FPV architectures, including analog VTX systems. In addition to the fully featured model, a visual-only version is available for dedicated daylight operations. Both models meet SWaP and cost objectives essential to attritable and one-way effect platforms.

“The US and our allies must lead the paradigm shift in UAV warfare,” commented Connor Duncan, CEO at MOHOC. “We are honored to support Drone Dominance and similar initiatives with Optac™, not merely NDAA compliant, but innovative FPV optics to redefine the visual edge,” added Eric Dobbie, VP US Sales.

MOHOC is presenting Optac™ at SOF Week 2026 in Tampa, May 19-21, booth 935. Meeting requests and press inquiries can be directed to Eric Dobbie (edobbie@mohoc.com).

Posted in Drone, Optics, Press Release, SOF Week | Comments Off on MOHOC Introduces Optac: NDAA-Compliant, Multi-Spectrum UAV Optics

US Air Force Expands X10D EOD Program With Multi-Million Dollar Follow-On Award

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

Skydio, the largest U.S. drone manufacturer and world leader in flying robots, today announced a follow-on multi-million dollar contract expansion with the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to further equip Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units with Skydio X10D systems.

The award was issued through the Defense Logistics Agency’s Tailored Logistics Support Special Operational Equipment program in partnership with ADS, a provider of products, technology, and logistics solutions for the U.S. military.

The contract more than doubles the scope of the initial USAF order announced in November 2025.

The expanded order builds on the USAF’s effort to integrate autonomous systems into every Airman’s toolkit. While Skydio systems are already widely deployed across the Air Force for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and base security, this expansion specifically supports EOD missions where rapid deployment, standoff distance, and immediate situational awareness are critical to keeping American Airmen safe.

The contract expansion further reinforces Skydio X10D’s position as the most widely deployed Group 1 UAS across USAF mission sets. In addition to supporting EOD units, Skydio X10D is the system of choice for Air Combat Command (ACC) Tactical Air Control Party Specialists (TACP) and PACAF Security Forces (A4S).

A1C Luke Bellows / USAF

Posted in Air Force, Contracts, Drone, EOD, Press Release | Comments Off on US Air Force Expands X10D EOD Program With Multi-Million Dollar Follow-On Award