US Navy on the Hunt for Strike Drones that Can Launch From Any Warship
The U.S. Navy, via a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) solicitation, is pursuing the Runway Independent Maritime and Expeditionary Strike (RIMES) program to field long‑range strike drones that can launch from destroyers, littoral combat ships and future frigates. The drones must carry 1,000‑lb class munitions, achieve a one‑way range of at least 1,400 nautical miles, and operate autonomously in contested, GPS‑denied environments. The requirement emphasizes minimal launch infrastructure, rapid turnaround, and an open‑system architecture that can be mass‑produced within 12 months. Proposals are due by Feb. 27.
US Marine Corps Advances Plans for Drone Wingman
The Marine Corps’ 2026 Aviation Plan places the MUX TACAIR drone wingman at the forefront of its combat aviation strategy, pairing low‑cost unmanned jets with the F‑35 Joint Strike Fighter. General Atomics’ YFQ‑42A has been selected as a candidate platform,...