US Special Operations Command Buys Tekever Drones After Acceptance Trials
Tekever's AI-enabled surveillance drones move from a 2025 exercise with US special operators to a purchase, a month after the Portuguese company's $580 million raise.
Tekever's AI-enabled surveillance drones move from a 2025 exercise with US special operators to a purchase, a month after the Portuguese company's $580 million raise.
US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has bought uncrewed aerial systems from Portuguese drone maker Tekever after validation and acceptance testing, the company announced Oct. 26. The programme included operator training and flights at multiple locations, which Tekever did not name.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did USSOCOM buy from Tekever?
Uncrewed aerial systems for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, according to Tekever. The company did not name the model or configuration.
How large is the deal?
Tekever did not disclose the contract value or the number of systems purchased.
What testing came before the purchase?
A validation and acceptance programme with operator training and flights at several locations, Tekever said. In March 2025 the company also flew its AR3 drone in an operational exercise with USSOCOM at Camp Roberts, California.
Where does Tekever work with US customers?
From Fayetteville, North Carolina, according to the company. The site sits close to Fort Bragg, Resilience Media noted.
What other major military contract does Tekever hold?
A British Army contract under the CORVUS programme to supply AR5 surveillance drones, replacing the Watchkeeper fleet, Resilience Media reported.
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Marcus Schuler
Marcus Schuler edits BattlePolicy, a daily defense-technology brief connecting the companies and capabilities behind modern war to the contest among Europe, the US, Russia, and China.