Uncrewed Systems Technology 066 February/March 2026

• Intro - It is becoming increasingly evident that open architectures and accessibility are characteristics of uncrewed systems that are key to allowing developers to exploit the benefits of autonomy and modularity
• Platform one: Mission-critical info - Machine learning technology to detect and neutralise cyberattacks on UAVs, a safety framework for making modular autonomous vehicles more practical, a portable radar system for counter-UAV operations, an autonomous reusable space launch system, a real-time correction scheme for improved UUV navigation, and more
• In conversation: Kofi Owusu-Adusei - Addressing African problems with African technological solutions could be considered a daunting ambition, but SoKo Aerial Robotics’ CEO is up to the challenge
• Dossier: Tuco Marine USVs - This leading Danish boatbuilder uses its modular system architecture to produce USVs suitable for a wide range of defence and commercial activities
• Focus: Artificial intelligence - As AI pervades most aspects of modern life, specialist AI architectures are being developed to revolutionise the way in which autonomous vehicles are controlled
• In operation: Everdrone UAV - Delivering life-saving medical equipment quickly and safely, Everdrone’s UAV is taking emergency response to the next level
• In operation: AZAK S26 UGVs - AZAK’s self-propelling wheel technology means that its S26 UGVs can cover rough ground with agility and manoeuvrability
• Dossier: Edge Performance ThrustVik - Focusing on the defence UAV space, Norway’s Edge Performance has produced a pair of modified Rotax engines with safety-critical and efficiency-optimising improvements
• Insight: UUVs - The range of research, commercial and military roles assigned to autonomous subsea vehicles continues to expand, with designs focusing on efficiency, modularity and cost-effectiveness
• Focus: Gimbals - There is more to a gimbal than might meet the eye, and we examine the key developments enabling such devices to become smarter, more open and higher-performing sensors
• Digest: MBDH XTMV-800 Nano UGV - MBDH spinout XTRACKS ROBOTICS is developing versatile, robust and low-cost UGVs as small, modular tracked vehicles for education, research, first response and defence
• Digest: NEWT21 FOG USV - Smaller and more affordable than traditional naval assets, NEWT21’s FOG is a cost-effective, low-signature USV capable of fulfilling military and commercial roles
• PS: Storm bringer - Could Russia’s 9M730 Burevestnik (‘storm bringer’) nuclear-powered cruise missile promote nuclear-powered aviation?