The US Air Force has issued two initial multimillion-dollar contracts to Skydio to broaden the deployment of small drones within Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units.
Under these deals, Skydio X10D drones will be delivered to Air Combat Command units, where TACP airmen will employ them for reconnaissance, situational awareness, and communications support on the battlefield.
These teams often work directly with ground forces to locate targets and coordinate airstrikes.
EOD units are also integrating the drones into both routine base activities and deployed missions. Additional shipments are planned over the next 18 months.
Expanding Drone Applications
The Air Force continues to widen its use of small unmanned systems, applying them to roles such as aircraft inspection and base security.
Security forces already rely on Skydio platforms for perimeter surveillance and installation protection.
At Travis Air Force Base, the 60th Maintenance Group launched the Air Force’s first drone-enabled C-17 inspection program, significantly reducing inspection time.
This effort supports a broader modernization initiative aimed at streamlining maintenance and improving personnel safety.
