The Pentagon wants to buy an Australian-made 'kamikaze' suicide drone armed with a shotgun

The Pentagon has approved the inclusion of an Australian-made armed drone, known as Cerberus MI, on a procurement list used by American military and federal agencies. Developed by Skyborne Technologies, the 40-pound aircraft is capable of firing a 12-gauge shotgun or a 40mm low-velocity grenade launcher. What sets Cerberus MI apart from other disposable attack drones is its ability to return to its operator after engaging a target, receive fresh ammunition, and complete another mission.

The aircraft features a reinforced airframe to withstand weapon recoil and utilizes onboard artificial intelligence to process data from multiple sensors, while still allowing human operators to make final engagement decisions. With a 35-minute operational time, a maximum speed of 54 kilometers per hour, and the capacity to carry payloads weighing up to 9 pounds, Cerberus MI fits within the Group 2 classification for unmanned aircraft.

The drone's targeting system supports engagements at distances exceeding 300 meters, and the modular design allows for the interchangeability of weapons. The Pentagon's clearance of Cerberus MI places the aircraft on the Department of Defense's Blue UAS Cleared List, enabling eligible American government agencies to utilize the system without needing individual policy exceptions.

While the Pentagon's approval does not imply a purchase or funding commitment, it signifies that Cerberus MI has met the necessary assessment requirements for potential procurement.