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US Air Force Orders One-Way Attack Drones

May 13, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

US Air Force awards Aevex $18.5 million contract for one-way attack drones.
Contract covers autonomous aircraft and support services.
Aevex uses 3D-printing for scalable production and rapid fielding.

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Strategic Implications

This contract may signal the US Air Force's growing interest in low-cost, autonomous attack systems. The use of 3D-printing technology suggests a focus on rapid production and deployment, which could indicate a shift towards more agile and adaptable military capabilities.

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What Happened

Aevex Wins Contract For Autonomous Aircraft Systems

The US Air Force has awarded Aevex an $18.5 million contract for autonomous aircraft designed for one-way attack missions. The deal covers delivery of autonomous aircraft as well as support from the company’s engineering and field services teams. Aevex will utilize its additive-manufactured Group 3 unmanned aircraft systems, which use advanced 3D-printing processes for scalable production and rapid fielding. The company did not disclose the specific aircraft or number of systems ordered. This development was first reported by AeroTime.

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Companies Mentioned