XTEND Defense has secured an $8.8 million contract with the U.S. Department of Defense to supply AI-powered "Precision Strike Indoor & Outdoor" (PSIO) drones, which feature advanced capabilities such as real-time autonomous targeting, swarming technology, and adaptability for urban and open-field combat scenarios, marking a transformative step in tactical drone innovation.
The AI-powered PSIO drones represent a significant leap in tactical drone technology, offering advanced capabilities that enhance military operations. These systems integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence to deliver real-time, high-precision strike capabilities with minimal human intervention12. Key features include:
Advanced navigation systems allowing operation in GPS-denied environments, crucial for indoor missions3
Mesh networking and fiber optic data links for robust communication in complex environments3
Real-time autonomous targeting, reducing operator workload and increasing mission effectiveness4
Swarming technology for coordinated multi-drone operations1
Adaptability for both urban and open-field combat scenarios1
High-precision strike capabilities, minimizing collateral damage24
These AI-driven capabilities enable the PSIO drones to operate effectively in challenging environments, providing strategic advantages in modern warfare scenarios while reducing risks to human operators24.
The PSIO drones, particularly the Scorpio 500 model, are revolutionizing urban combat tactics with their unique ability to operate effectively in confined indoor spaces as well as outdoor environments. These AI-powered unmanned aerial systems are designed for rapid deployment across urban landscapes, providing unparalleled tactical advantages in complex city warfare scenarios12. The drones' advanced navigation systems allow them to maneuver through buildings, clearing rooms and identifying threats with minimal risk to human operators3.
Key urban combat applications of PSIO drones include:
Indoor reconnaissance and threat assessment in multi-story buildings
Precision strikes on high-value targets in densely populated areas
Support for hostage rescue operations in confined spaces
Rapid building clearance during counter-terrorism missions
Real-time intelligence gathering in urban environments
These capabilities significantly enhance the safety and effectiveness of military personnel in urban warfare, reducing the need for soldiers to enter high-risk areas blindly45. The PSIO's ability to seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor operations makes it a versatile asset in the ever-evolving landscape of modern urban combat26.
The Scorpio 500 PSIO drone system underwent rigorous live-fire testing to demonstrate its operational capabilities and effectiveness in real-world scenarios. According to XTEND Defense CEO Ido Shapira, these tests showcased the "precision, reliability, and operational superiority" of the Scorpio PSIO sUAS solution1. The trials were designed to evaluate the drone's performance in various combat situations, including:
Autonomous target acquisition and engagement
Indoor navigation and strike capabilities
Swarm coordination in complex environments
Effectiveness against moving targets
Resilience to electronic countermeasures
While specific details of the tests remain classified, the successful outcomes have bolstered confidence in the system's readiness for deployment. The live-fire demonstrations likely played a crucial role in securing the $8.8 million contract with the U.S. Department of Defense, highlighting the Scorpio 500's potential to revolutionize urban warfare tactics and enhance soldier safety in high-risk operations.