Several companies around the world manufacture armed drones, commonly known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones. Here are some of the most prominent:
Major Manufacturers:
- General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI): This U.S.-based company produces the well-known Predator and Reaper drones, used by the U.S. military and several other countries.
- Northrop Grumman: Another American defense contractor, Northrop Grumman manufactures the Global Hawk drone, a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft.
- Boeing: The American aerospace giant Boeing produces the Insitu ScanEagle drone, a smaller, tactical UAV used for surveillance and reconnaissance.
- Lockheed Martin: This company, also based in the U.S., manufactures the RQ-170 Sentinel drone, known for its stealth capabilities.
- Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI): IAI, based in Israel, is a leading manufacturer of drones, including the Hermes family of UAVs, used for various purposes like surveillance, reconnaissance, and even light attacks.
- Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI): TAI, based in Turkey, produces the Anka drone, which is used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat.
Other Notable Manufacturers:
- Elbit Systems (Israel): Elbit Systems designs and manufactures various drones, including the Hermes 900 and Skylark series.
- AeroVironment (U.S.): AeroVironment produces the Raven and Switchblade drones, smaller and portable, used for reconnaissance and attack.
- Airbus Defence and Space (Europe): Airbus, a European aerospace giant, manufactures the Eurodrone, a planned military UAV.
- Dassault Aviation (France): Dassault Aviation, known for its fighter jets, also manufactures the nEUROn stealth drone.
These are just a few of the many companies involved in the development and production of armed drones. The field is constantly evolving, with new players emerging and existing companies developing more advanced UAVs.
