Anduril, a U.S. defense technology company, has recently introduced its new Bolt family of military drones powered by artificial intelligence (AI). These drones, developed for the U.S. Marine Corps as part of the Force Design modernization program, come in two configurations – the standard Bolt for surveillance and search-and-rescue operations, and the Bolt-M equipped with explosive munitions for combat scenarios. The Bolt-M, dubbed a “kamikaze” drone, can identify and fly into targets before detonating payloads.
The Bolt-M is compatible with various munitions packages, with a maximum payload capacity of 3 pounds. It boasts modularity and ease of use, allowing operators to switch between anti-personnel and anti-materiel warheads based on battlefield requirements. The drone can be assembled and deployed in under five minutes and launched from any location due to its VTOL capabilities. The Bolt-M can fly for over 40 minutes with a range of 12.5 miles, while the standard Bolt can fly for more than 45 minutes.
Controlled by Anduril’s Lattice software platform, the Bolt-M requires minimal training for operators to find, track, and strike targets. Agnostic object tracking enables manual object highlighting for tracking, supplementing the onboard computer’s identification abilities. Autonomous waypoint navigation allows operators to set flight paths using GPS, freeing them from constant control during potentially hostile terrain traversals.
Developed under the USMC’s OPF-L program, Anduril’s Bolt and Bolt-M were chosen alongside two other companies for precision fire systems contracts in April 2024. Co-founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, Anduril continues to innovate in defense technology, providing advanced solutions for modern military needs. With its AI-powered drones, Anduril aims to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in combat scenarios, ensuring the safety and success of military operations.
