Defense Innovation Unit selects four companies for long-range unmanned platform prototypes

Project Artemis focuses on testing loitering munitions capable of operating in contested electromagnetic warfare (EW) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-denied environments. The programme aligns with congressional directives to develop affordable and scalable unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that can be deployed in large numbers.

Trent Emeneker, DIU programme manager, highlighted the importance of working with non-traditional defence companies to bring innovative and adaptable solutions to the battlefield. He emphasised that the goal is to deliver advanced capabilities at speed and scale, significantly reducing the timeline compared to traditional acquisition programmes.

The four selected companies include Swan, a U.S. software firm collaborating with a Ukrainian UAS manufacturer; Dragoon, a U.S.-based company; Aerovironment, another U.S. firm; and Auterion, a U.S. software company partnered with another Ukrainian UAS producer. These firms will contribute to developing cost-effective and rapidly deployable drone platforms.

Over a period of just four months, DIU and A&S formulated the project’s objectives, received 165 proposals, conducted flight demonstrations, and finalised contract negotiations. This accelerated process reflects the urgency of providing operationally relevant solutions based on real-world combat conditions and military feedback.

By May 2025, the programme aims to complete prototyping and conduct full operational demonstrations. The project is designed to offer an alternative to traditional acquisition programmes, allowing military branches and combatant commands to adopt new capabilities years ahead of standard procurement timelines.

The final Artemis platforms will be ground-launched, long-range one-way UAS capable of flying 50-300+ km while navigating at low altitudes. These drones will be affordable, adaptable, rapidly upgradable, and functional in environments with disrupted or denied satellite navigation and communication systems.

Source: Defense Innovation Unit (DIU).