The US Air Force has awarded two initial multi-million-dollar contracts to Skydio to increase the fielding of small drones across units.
The US Air Force has awarded two initial multi-million-dollar contracts to Skydio to increase the fielding of small drones across Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units.
Under the agreements, Skydio X10D systems will be provided to Air Combat Command units, where TACP airmen will use them for battlefield awareness, reconnaissance, and communications support.
These teams typically operate alongside ground forces, identifying targets and coordinating air support.
The drones are also being adopted by EOD units for use both during routine base operations and on deployed missions.
Additional deliveries are scheduled over the next 18 months.
Drones Beyond Frontline Missions
The air force has been steadily expanding its use of small drones for tasks ranging from base security to aircraft inspection.
Security forces units already employ Skydio systems for perimeter monitoring and installation protection.
At Travis Air Force Base, the 60th Maintenance Group launched the service’s first drone-based inspection program for C-17 aircraft, reporting significant reductions in inspection time.
The initiative is part of a broader modernization push to speed maintenance processes and reduce risks to personnel.
