Lockheed Martin unveils stealthy, offensive variants for their tanker drone

As the competition for the Navy’s MQ-25 tanker drone heats up between Boeing, Lockheed Martin and General Atomics, it would seem at least two of the contenders believe the decision could come down to which platform offers the most versatility beyond the contract’s requirements. Last week, SOFREP reported on Boeing’s decision to base their MQ-25 […]

Despite touting advanced missiles, Russia’s drone program lags behind competitors

The United States has been among the most proficient adopters of drone technology for the battlefield of any national level military. The CIA was using drones for surveillance over conflict ridden areas as far back as the year 2000, and racked up the nation’s first confirmed kill with an unmanned aircraft only two years later, […]

How an unarmed drone could help America regain the advantage in near-peer warfare

Lockheed Martin has finally unveiled concept images of their forthcoming carrier launched tanker drone that hopes to help extend the flight range of America’s Naval aircraft. Lockheed’s Advanced Development Programs, also known as Skunk Works, hopes their flying-wing refueler will beat out the likes of Boeing and General Atomics for the lucrative drone contract. The […]

Watch: Marines test rig that makes any helicopter into a resupply drone

The introduction of drones has, in many ways, changed the face of warfare.  Between long duration loitering, reconnaissance and even direct fire support, drones have already proven their value on the battlefield. It seems likely that, in the years to come, we’ll only see more autonomous aircraft in the skies above our war fighters. However, […]

L.A. Sheriff to Start Using Drones

It has officially begun. The use of drones in California law enforcement. Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell announced Thursday that his agency will begin to utilize drones in their police work. He assured the public that these drones will not be used for general surveillance but instead used to surveil possible arson sites, bomb […]

USAF handing out cash to keep drone pilots

In addition to the already $25k in bonuses the Air Force has dedicated to 5 year commitments, they are tacking on another $10k, according to Engadget. So, if you sign up for 5 more years, you are potentially adding a cool $35k a year to your salary.

Video appears to confirm use of attack drones by Hezbollah

Hezbollah first used drones in attack missions during the Second Lebanon War in the summer of 2006, loading Ababil drones with explosive material and sending them to crash into Israeli targets, according to a new research paper written by former Washington Institute analyst Nadav Pollak

Watch: The Marine Corps New Twin-Blade, Kaman, K-MAX Helicopters

The Marine Corps’ first two Kaman K-MAX Helicopters have arrived and settled at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. The K-MAX will be added to MCAS Yuma’s already vast collection of military air assets, and will utilize the station’s ranges to strengthen training, testing, and operations across the Marine Corps.

Chief K-MAX pilot, Jerry McCawley, explains what makes the helicopter so unique.