Dagger Unmanned awarded contract with usaf to develop a Autonomous High-speed Tactical Reconnaissance Drone
(New York, NY) – Dagger Unmanned LLC is proud to announce its selection by AFWERX for a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I contract, supporting the development of an Autonomous High-Speed Tactical Reconnaissance Drone for Autonomous Teaming and Precision Strike Operations. This contract reinforces Dagger Unmanned’s commitment to delivering next-generation unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that enhance national defense capabilities and operational effectiveness.
The project will address critical challenges faced by the Department of the Air Force (DAF), focusing on advanced high-speed reconnaissance, autonomous teaming, and survivability in contested environments. Through this initiative, Dagger Unmanned will develop a highly maneuverable and intelligent UAS platform capable of supporting precision strike and real-time reconnaissance missions with enhanced autonomy and adaptability.
AFWERX, in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has streamlined the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and STTR programs to accelerate the development of groundbreaking defense technologies. By reducing bureaucratic barriers, expanding opportunities for small businesses, and implementing process improvements in contract execution, AFWERX continues to drive rapid innovation within the U.S. defense sector.
The DAF Open Topic SBIR/STTR program, introduced in 2018, has significantly broadened the scope of innovations funded by the Air Force. Through this award, Dagger Unmanned will continue its mission to develop disruptive, mission-critical solutions that enhance warfighter capabilities and reinforce U.S. national security.
Quote from Dagger Unmanned LLC
"Dagger Unmanned is honored to be selected by AFWERX for this opportunity. Our focus is on redefining what is possible in high-speed reconnaissance and autonomous teaming. This contract allows us to push the envelope of unmanned aerial capabilities and deliver game-changing solutions for the warfighter. We look forward to collaborating with AFRL and the U.S. Air Force to develop a system that sets a new standard for tactical autonomy and precision strike operations."
— Kody A O Viele, CEO of Dagger Unmanned LLC
“The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.”
About Dagger Unmanned LLC
Founded in 2023, Dagger Unmanned LLC is an advanced technology company specializing in the development of next-generation autonomous aerial systems for military and defense applications. A subsidiary of Viele Exploratory Sustainable Solutions LLC (VESS), Dagger Unmanned focuses on delivering high-speed, highly maneuverable, and intelligent UAS platforms designed for reconnaissance, precision strike, and autonomous teaming. With an emphasis on rapid innovation, mission adaptability, and cutting-edge autonomy, Dagger Unmanned is dedicated to equipping the warfighter with unmatched operational capabilities in contested environments.
For more information, visit www.vielesolutions.com.
About AFWERX
As the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force (DAF) and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), AFWERX accelerates the transition of cutting-edge technologies from small businesses and startups to address the Air Force’s most pressing challenges. With a dedicated workforce of approximately 370 personnel across five hubs and an annual budget of $1.4 billion, AFWERX has executed over 6,200 contracts totaling more than $4.7 billion since 2019, fostering rapid innovation within the defense industrial base. For more information, visit afwerx.com.
About the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is the leading scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. As a global leader in defense innovation, AFRL is responsible for the discovery, development, and integration of advanced warfighting technologies across air, space, and cyberspace domains. With a workforce of over 12,500 personnel operating across nine technology directorates and 40 global locations, AFRL delivers cutting-edge solutions that ensure the United States maintains its technological superiority. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com.