Anduril’s Roadrunner: A Cutting-Edge, Twin-Turbojet Defense Drone
Anduril Industries Unveils the Roadrunner: A High-Speed, Twin-Turbojet Defense Drone
The private sector is pushing the boundaries of defense technology, with Anduril Industries leading the charge. In December 2023, the company unveiled the Roadrunner, a twin turbojet-powered, delta-winged unmanned system designed for extreme maneuverability and high subsonic speeds. The Roadrunner stands out due to its vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities, making it highly versatile for various battlefield scenarios.
Engineered for both surveillance and combat missions, the Roadrunner boasts a modular payload system, allowing it to carry intelligence and reconnaissance sensors. This adaptability enables it to support multiple operations, including ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and tactical engagements.
A specialized variant, the Roadrunner-M, is armed with an explosive warhead, making it an effective countermeasure against unmanned aerial systems (UAS), cruise missiles, and even manned aircraft. This weaponized version enhances the defensive capabilities of modern militaries, providing a rapid-response solution to evolving aerial threats.
Recognizing its potential, the U.S. military has already placed an order for hundreds of units, with each priced in the low hundreds of thousands of dollars—a cost-effective solution compared to traditional missile defense systems. With its cutting-edge technology and adaptability, the Roadrunner is set to revolutionize modern aerial warfare, reinforcing the growing role of the private sector in defense innovation.