St. Louis, MO – American drone manufacturer WingXpand is securing major defense contracts and expanding production as U.S. military and civil agencies accelerate their shift toward domestic technology. The company recently announced new agreements with U.S. Special Operations, the Army, and its first Navy contract, alongside approval from Montana’s state agencies – signaling a pivotal moment for military drones built on American soil.

WingXpand’s Military Drone Contracts Signal Shift to Domestic Production

WingXpand’s recent contract wins align with a national security directive to reduce reliance on foreign-made drones. James Barbieri, CEO and Co-Founder, emphasized: “We’re redefining who can access highly capable robotics, proudly built in America.” The contracts involve developing mission-specific payloads and a flexible software stack that allows third parties to integrate AI, autonomy, and sensing tools. A collaboration with defense giant Raytheon demonstrated this adaptability, enabling rapid customization for diverse operational needs.

The Navy contract, facilitated through Ranken Technical College, focuses on drone maintenance, workforce training, and scaling U.S.-based manufacturing. This partnership addresses dual priorities: strengthening supply-chain resilience and cultivating skilled technicians for next-generation military drones.

State Approvals Reflect Broader Security Mandates

Montana’s selection of WingXpand as one of six approved drone providers for public safety missions underscores a nationwide trend. Over a dozen states are actively restricting or evaluating foreign drone use, mirroring the Department of Defense’s strategy to deploy secure, low-cost autonomous systems. These decisions prioritize NDAA compliance and data security – critical factors for infrastructure inspection, emergency response, and defense operations where foreign technology poses vulnerabilities.

WingXpand’s aircraft are designed to meet these stringent requirements. Their expandable drones fit into backpacks, launch in under two minutes, and offer five times the range of standard quadcopters. Real-time onboard AI enables threat detection and situational awareness, making them ideal for frontline military and civil teams.

Scaling Production for Affordability and Accessibility

To meet soaring demand, WingXpand is ramping up production capacity. Barbieri notes this expansion will lower costs for high-performance drones, ensuring unit-level teams across military and civil sectors can access them. “We’re supporting soldiers to first responders with trusted, adaptable tools,” he stated. The company’s modular approach allows rapid upgrades – a key advantage as drone threats evolve and mission needs diversify.

WingXpand’s growth exemplifies a strategic realignment toward secure, U.S.-built unmanned systems. As defense and civil agencies prioritize sovereignty and innovation, these American-made military drones are set to become indispensable assets for national security. Explore their technology at WingXpand.com to understand the future of domestic aerospace.

Must Know

Q: Why are U.S. agencies shifting to drones like WingXpand’s?
A: Security concerns over foreign data vulnerabilities and NDAA compliance requirements are driving demand for domestically manufactured systems. WingXpand meets these standards while offering advanced AI capabilities.

Q: What makes WingXpand drones unique for military use?
A: Their portability (backpack-sized), five-fold range advantage over quadcopters, and real-time AI for threat detection provide tactical edges in field operations.

Q: How does the Navy contract impact U.S. drone manufacturing?
A: Partnering with Ranken Technical College boosts workforce training and maintenance infrastructure, scaling domestic production capacity for military drones.

Q: Are these drones available for non-military applications?
A: Yes. WingXpand’s technology supports civil missions like search-and-rescue, infrastructure inspection, and wildfire response – now approved in states like Montana.