Skydio Secures $52 Million Contract for Nearly 3,000 X10D Drones from U.S. Army

U.S. Army Orders Nearly 3,000 Skydio X10D Drones

The U.S. Army has announced a significant procurement of nearly 3,000 Skydio X10D drones, with the total order exceeding $52 million. This acquisition marks the largest small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) purchase from a single vendor in the Army’s history. The contract was awarded in under 72 hours, a notable deviation from the lengthy acquisition processes typically associated with Pentagon procurements. The order was facilitated through Atlantic Diving Supply (ADS), a defense contracting vehicle that allows for expedited procurement outside traditional channels.

Features and Capabilities of the X10D Drone

The Skydio X10D is designed specifically for military applications, incorporating lessons learned from recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine. The drone serves a tactical role as a “hunter,” intended to locate targets for one-way attack munitions. This operational model has been effectively utilized in Ukraine, where intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drones identify targets for subsequent strikes.

Key features of the Skydio X10D include:

• Six custom navigation cameras for real-time terrain mapping.
• A robust sensor suite, including a 48-megapixel telephoto camera and a thermal imaging system capable of detecting thermal signatures in challenging conditions.
• Dynamic frequency switching to maintain connectivity in high-interference environments.
• Rapid deployment capabilities, with the drone ready to fly in approximately 40 seconds.

Background on the Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance Program

This order is part of the Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program, which Skydio was selected for in February 2022. The program initially focused on the X2D model, with the X10D now serving as the replacement platform. Skydio has been the sole manufacturer involved in both phases of the SRR program, demonstrating a commitment to meeting the Army’s evolving needs.

In May 2025, Skydio fulfilled an initial order for the X10D, shipping hundreds of units to an Army unit preparing for deployment. The recent $52 million order significantly exceeds previous funding levels for the SRR program, indicating a strong demand for these advanced drones.

Production Capacity and Competitive Landscape

Skydio’s manufacturing facility in Hayward, California, is one of the largest drone production plants outside of China. The company has optimized its production process, allowing for the assembly of a single X10D in just nine minutes. With a current output exceeding 1,000 drones per month, Skydio is well-positioned to meet the increased demand from the Army.

Skydio’s competitive edge is attributed to its ability to produce high-quality drones at a lower cost, driven by its experience in the civilian market. The urgency of the Army’s procurement reflects a broader trend in U.S. government acquisitions, emphasizing the need for rapid deployment of advanced technologies.

Conclusion

The swift acquisition of nearly 3,000 Skydio X10D drones highlights a significant shift in military procurement practices, prioritizing speed and efficiency. The X10D’s capabilities as a targeting system for one-way attack munitions represent a strategic evolution in the Army’s operational approach. As the demand for advanced ISR capabilities continues to grow, the Army’s investment in the X10D may pave the way for future orders and collaborations with allied nations.