Skydio Drones: Supporting Norwegian Armed Forces Missions
Skydio has secured a significant contract to supply its advanced small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to the Norwegian Armed Forces. This deal, valued at 101 million Norwegian kroner (approximately $9.8 million), encompasses an undisclosed number of the company’s cutting-edge X10D drones, designed to meet rigorous U.S. military standards. The distribution process has already begun in collaboration with Kristiansand-based distributor Oskar Pedersen.
The deployment of this drone fleet is anticipated to offer vital assistance to troops on the ground, as these robust systems are specifically engineered to operate in extreme weather conditions. With certifications for temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit), they are well-suited for missions in the challenging Arctic environment. Each X10D drone boasts an extensive sensor suite, including a 48 to 64-megapixel camera along with a Teledyne FLIR thermal imaging device, which significantly enhances situational awareness for faster and more informed tactical decisions.
The operational capabilities of the X10D are impressive; they can be launched in under 40 seconds, achieve speeds of up to 45 miles per hour (72 kilometers per hour), and maintain flight for approximately 40 minutes. Furthermore, these drones are designed to sustain control and maintain data links even in contested environments, thanks to their sophisticated electronic warfare features.
Adam Bry, CEO and Co-Founder of Skydio, expressed pride in supporting Norway’s defense initiatives. He stated, “Norway has been at the forefront of adopting advanced technology for defense, and we’re proud to support their armed forces with our X10D platform. X10D is the small UAS of choice for Western militaries, featuring onboard AI, autonomy, powerful sensors, and survivability in contested environments.” This endorsement reaffirms the strategic importance of integrating innovative technology into military operations.
