Pentagon Launches Replicator Program to Bolster Drone Capabilities Against Global Threats
The U.S. Defense Department's new initiative aims to rapidly expand drone technology, including the deployment of the Switchblade-600 and other unmanned systems.
- The Replicator program, initiated by the Pentagon, focuses on integrating advanced drone technologies to enhance U.S. military operations.
- AeroVironment's Switchblade-600, known for its effectiveness in Ukraine, is the first publicly confirmed system under this initiative.
- The program includes a $1 billion budget over two years, aiming to develop and deploy various unmanned systems across military domains.
- Future tranches of the Replicator initiative will involve maritime, aerial, and counter-drone technologies, with some details still classified.
- The initiative also seeks to diversify the defense industrial base by involving both traditional and non-traditional defense contractors.
Defense One 
The Japan Times 
South China Morning Post 
Denver Gazette 