Anduril’s New AI-Powered Bolt Drones for Easy Targeting

Anduril says its new drones hit targets accurately with minimal user input or training needed. The defense startup just unveiled its new Bolt family of user-friendly drones designed for soldiers on the ground.

The Bolt family is intended to simplify complex battlefield tasks. The Bolt family includes two main types of drones: the Bolt and the Bolt-M. The Bolt is focused on search and rescue operations, providing real-time information to assist in locating people or monitoring an area. The Bolt-M, on the other hand, is armed and designed to attack targets.

Both drones are meant to be easy to use, allowing soldiers to focus on mission goals instead of complex drone controls. Unlike other military drones that require highly trained pilots, Bolt drones only need basic user commands.

Anduril Bolt Family Drone
Anduril Bolt Family Drone (Source: Anduril Industries)

Soldiers simply decide where the drone should look, what to follow, and when to take action. This approach drastically reduces the need for specialized skills or extensive training.

The drones use advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to navigate on their own and track objects. They don’t require specific target details to operate effectively. This autonomy makes the Bolt drones especially useful in fast-changing situations where speed and adaptability are critical.

Bolt drones are small enough for soldiers to carry and can be quickly deployed when needed. Bolt-M is equipped to carry explosives and accurately hit both moving and still targets, including light vehicles and enemy positions. This capability gives dismounted soldiers a powerful tool for both defense and offense, without needing a dedicated drone team.

The drones are powered and controlled by a tactical version of Anduril’s Lattice software platform.