The Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401), the Pentagon’s central coordination body for counter-UAS efforts, has awarded Perennial Autonomy a $5.2 million contract to deliver kinetic counter-drone systems for operational deployment.
The contract includes the Bumblebee V2 FPV multi-rotor interceptor drone, a fully NDAA-compliant, low-cost platform designed to physically neutralize small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) while minimizing collateral damage.
Initial deliveries are set to begin in March, when the U.S. Army’s Global Response Force will conduct an operational assessment of the system in support of the newly established Lieutenant General Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost (JIOP).
Formed in late January 2026, the JIOP is intended to accelerate the fielding of next-generation technologies that enhance soldier survivability, lethality, and operational effectiveness.
As part of broader Pentagon counter-drone efforts, JIATF-401 — established in August 2025 — continues to drive rapid acquisition, engaging both traditional and non-traditional defense suppliers. Earlier this year, it contracted Fortem Technologies to deliver DroneHunter F700 interceptors under the Replicator 2 initiative, and issued new guidance on critical infrastructure protection against drone threats.
