U.S. Army Seeks Soldier Common Systems for Counter-Small Drone Defense

U.S. Army Solicits Industry for C-sUAS Demonstration in FY 2026

The U.S. Army's Program Executive Office for Missiles & Space has announced a call for industry participation in a counter-small unmanned aerial systems (C-sUAS) demonstration scheduled for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026. The initiative aims to equip soldiers with common counter-drone equipment, focusing on Groups 1 and 2 small UAS, which weigh less than 55 pounds.

Selected systems must be capable of detecting and defeating drones, providing more than 15 seconds of detection time and defending an area greater than 0.5 kilometers. These 'common systems' are designed for self-protection and can be wearable, handheld, or dismounted, engaging drones through electronic warfare or augmented weapon optics. As many as a dozen vendors are expected to be selected.

Implications for B2B Defense Suppliers

This demonstration underscores the growing threat of small drones on modern battlefields and the urgent military demand for portable, soldier-level counter-UAS solutions. For B2B suppliers in defense and security sectors, this represents a significant contracting opportunity. Companies offering innovative detection, electronic warfare, or optical augmentation technologies should prepare submissions immediately.

• Contracts expected for up to 12 vendors
• Focus on lightweight, portable systems under 55 lbs
• Requirements include >15 sec detection time and >0.5 km defense area

Source: SUAS News, May 15, 2026.