Teledyne FLIR’s Black Hornet 4 nano-drone added to U.S. military-approved Blue UAS List

The Blue UAS programme, managed by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), evaluates and certifies commercial drone systems for use by the U.S. military and government agencies. The Black Hornet 4 was selected from over 35 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) products tested during DIU’s recent ‘Blue UAS Refresh’ event.

“We are honoured to see Black Hornet 4 added to the Blue UAS List, knowing that more operators across our military and federal government will be able to benefit from this one-of-a-kind drone and its distinct capabilities,” said Dr JihFen Lei, president of Teledyne FLIR Defense. “DIU is filling a critical national need in meeting mission requirements by executing a more expansive Blue UAS program, and we have valued our partnership with them throughout the verification process,” she added.

The Black Hornet 4 is a next-generation nano-drone, designed to deliver enhanced covert situational awareness for small tactical units. Weighing just 70 grams, it features a 12-megapixel daytime camera, high-resolution thermal imaging, and can operate in harsh weather for over 30 minutes at distances exceeding three kilometres.

Its advanced design includes obstacle avoidance and other flight enhancements, supporting missions in 25-knot winds and rain. These capabilities allow the system to function effectively in diverse and challenging operational environments.

In May, Teledyne FLIR Defense opened a new 13,000-square-foot facility in Somerset, Kentucky, to serve as a major hub for servicing, testing, and training related to the Black Hornet systems. The new centre will support U.S. armed forces currently deploying the technology.

Since 2018, the U.S. Army has procured Black Hornet systems through its Soldier Borne Sensor (SBS) programme, with cumulative orders exceeding $300 million. Globally, Teledyne FLIR has delivered more than 33,000 Black Hornet drones to military and security forces in over 45 countries.

The award-winning Black Hornet is designed and manufactured by Teledyne FLIR Defense in Norway. The company is a subsidiary of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TDY.