The ability to protect deployed troops against drones is considered a prerequisite for land combat operations in the future. Italy’s Leonardo and Turkish drone maker Baykar are discussing a team-up which could see Leonardo’s electronics and radar mounted on Baykar’s drones. Ukraine has been a crucible for drone innovation as it fights off Russia’s invasion. In a demonstration video, a formation of 10 quadcopters is seen taking off and relaying video footage from above snowy forests to ground operators. Production of military drones and autonomous air vehicles is envisioned to begin in July 2026. At stake is the military's ability to adjust to the future of war and compete with China, its main rival. The Army wants launched effects that could deploy from high-speed, higher-altitude business jets as it expands its pursuit of unmanned capabilities. Frankenburg Technologies' Mark-1 missile is meant to be a cheap and mass-producable weapon, according to the manufacturer. The choice of a Turkish buyer for an Italian aviation firm is a remarkable turnaround given Italy’s traditional heft in the aviation industry. Under the banner of “extended all-arms air defense," as officials call the approach, soldiers deployed on NATO's eastern flank will get the gear first. Load More