XTend AI Robotics has secured an order for 6,000 combat drones after being recognised as a leading performer in Gauntlet 2, part of the US Department of Defense’s Drone Dominance Program. Valued at more than $40.5 million, the contract will supply US forces with STRIKER drone systems powered by the company’s proprietary XOS software. XTend describes XOS as a human-guided autonomous operating system designed to combine operator control with machine autonomy. The approach is intended to support drone operations while reducing the need for direct physical interaction with the systems. The order represents a significant procurement opportunity for the company under the US programme, which evaluates drone technologies and their suitability for military requirements. The announcement highlights the growing emphasis on scalable unmanned systems and software that combines human decision-making with autonomous functions.
