The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has awarded contracts to Anduril Industries and Zone 5 Technologies to further develop low-cost, scalable drone interceptors under its Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems NEXT (C-UAS NEXT) program.

The initiative seeks to field affordable, high-volume counter-drone capabilities to offset the cost asymmetry between cheap, proliferating aerial threats and the expensive systems traditionally used to stop them. By leveraging modular, commercially inspired designs, DIU aims to accelerate deployment timelines and reduce acquisition risk.

Both Anduril and Zone 5 will now refine earlier prototypes, integrate subsystems, and undergo safety testing, culminating in a live-fire demonstration planned for summer 2026. The effort builds on prior flight evaluations and is intended to transition directly toward operational use if performance milestones are met.

The C-UAS NEXT program reflects DIU’s mission to connect commercial innovators with defense needs, rapidly fielding disruptive technology to meet emerging threats. With hostile drone use accelerating worldwide, defense leaders view the development of cost-effective interceptor systems as a critical capability for protecting forces and infrastructure.