Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force has selected Shield AI’s V-BAT drone as its first ship-based ISR platform. The AI-powered system supports autonomous operations in GPS-denied environments and is part of Japan’s broader effort to modernize its defense capabilities in response to regional challenges.

During Drone Show Korea 2025, Bo-Hyung Lee, former commander of South Korea’s Drone Operations Command, emphasized the growing role of artificial intelligence in civilian drone applications. The event showcased AI innovations supporting agriculture, infrastructure, and disaster management, as South Korea advances its position in the global autonomous technology landscape.

On June 6, 2025, President Donald Trump signed two executive orders—“Unleashing American Drone Dominance” and “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty”—aimed at advancing drone technology across the United States. The initiatives focus on AI-powered regulatory reform, expanded Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, and enhanced airspace security, with significant implications for public safety and domestic innovation.

Ukraine’s push to integrate artificial intelligence into combat drones has drawn global attention. While AI offers potential to counter jamming and reduce operator risk, real-world limitations in terrain, cost, and reliability persist. With Russia advancing its own AI-guided systems, the battlefield has become a proving ground for the future of autonomous warfare.

Hong Kong will host AI+ Power 2025 on June 5-6, spotlighting advances in artificial intelligence and drone technology. The exhibition will present practical AI applications in culture and urban development, reflecting the city’s push toward global tech leadership.

The MQ-28 Ghost Bat, Australia’s first domestically developed combat aircraft in over five decades, showcases the nation’s advances in AI-driven unmanned aviation. Developed by Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force, the Ghost Bat is designed to work alongside manned aircraft, offering new capabilities in autonomous military operations.

BigBear.ai and Hardy Dynamics have joined the U.S. Army’s Project Linchpin to develop AI-powered drone swarm systems for military use. The project will focus on secure coordination for unmanned aerial systems and is set for field testing at Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 in Australia, involving AUKUS and allied forces.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey has announced that the upcoming Strategic Defence Review will place a central focus on integrating artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into the armed forces. The review, led by Lord Robertson and Fiona Hill, aims to strengthen the UK’s position in NATO through targeted investments and procurement reforms.

DoorDash and Wing have introduced an AI-driven drone delivery service in Charlotte, North Carolina, offering fast food deliveries from local restaurants to select neighborhoods. The initiative aims to increase convenience, reduce emissions, and test the potential for broader adoption of autonomous delivery technology in the U.S.

German defense technology startup Helsing has introduced the SG-1 Fathom, an autonomous underwater drone powered by the Lura AI system. The drone is engineered for extended maritime surveillance, supporting the protection of subsea cables and pipelines while enabling scalable and cost-effective fleet operations for navies.

Two Amazon MK30 drones crashed during test flights in Oregon, revealing vulnerabilities in AI-powered navigation systems. Following a safety review and FAA-approved software updates, Amazon resumed limited drone deliveries. The incidents highlight industry challenges in balancing innovation with operational safety.

The Haryana government has enacted a statewide ban on drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for civilians until May 25, 2025, to address security concerns. The ban exempts armed forces and key emergency agencies, while public awareness efforts and stricter enforcement aim to safeguard sensitive areas.

Pune has implemented a citywide ban on drones and aerial devices until June 12, 2025, amid rising security concerns. The temporary measure aims to prevent unauthorized drone activities, safeguard sensitive locations, and employs AI-powered surveillance for enforcement. The ban impacts both urban and rural users and requires police approval for exceptions.

Greece has launched legal action against organizers of a recent Adidas drone show held near the Acropolis, alleging unauthorized use of airspace and violation of heritage protection laws. The incident has fueled public debate over the balance between modern technology and the safeguarding of cultural landmarks.

Macomb County, Michigan, is pioneering the use of AI-powered drones for sewer inspections, significantly reducing costs and enhancing data accuracy. This cutting-edge approach aims to prevent costly infrastructure failures and streamline maintenance efforts, positioning the county as a leader in public works innovation.

In 2025, California’s unmanned aerial systems framework marries federal FAA mandates with cutting-edge AI technologies. Operators must register and pass the TRUST exam, broadcast Remote ID, and secure airspace via LAANC, while AI-powered navigation and enforcement systems enhance safety and adherence to local privacy and restricted-area rules.

The StormShroud drone, a groundbreaking AI-powered uncrewed aerial system, aims to strengthen RAF capabilities by jamming enemy radar, reducing pilot risk, and supporting manned-unmanned teaming. Developed by Tekever and Leonardo UK, this innovative platform marks a critical advancement in autonomous military technology.

Stark, a German defense tech startup, has introduced the AI-driven OWE-V drone, capable of autonomous target tracking and operations in GPS-denied zones. With its VTOL design and swarm functionality, the drone reflects battlefield lessons from Ukraine and growing global interest in autonomous warfare, raising new questions around ethics, oversight, and regulation.

Near midair collisions between drones and commercial aircraft are rising across U.S. airports, prompting urgent calls for better enforcement and technological solutions. While geofencing and FAA rules help, experts believe AI may offer scalable, real-time responses to keep skies safer.

In a landmark competition, an autonomous drone developed by Delft University of Technology defeated former world champions at the A2RL Drone Championship in Abu Dhabi. Relying solely on a forward-facing camera and AI algorithms, the drone demonstrated cutting-edge performance in high-speed navigation, marking a significant milestone in autonomous flight technology.