AI-Powered DroneHunter 4700 System Deployed by Pentagon Task Force

ByUjjwal Sukhwani•January 14, 2026 at 01:34 AM•3 min read

AI-Powered DroneHunter 4700 System Deployed by Pentagon Task Force

The Pentagon's Joint Interagency Task Force 401 is deploying the AI-powered DroneHunter 4700 system to boost defense against small drone threats under the Replicator 2 initiative.

Key Points

1The Pentagon’s Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401) awarded a contract for two DroneHunter 4700 (F700) systems from Fortem Technologies.
2The DroneHunter uses AI and radar to autonomously capture small quadcopters and larger Group 2 drones using specialized nets.
3The deployment is part of the Replicator 2 initiative, which is focused on rapidly fielding counter-small UAS capabilities to protect critical military installations.
4The new technology highlights the growing need for advanced counter-drone solutions in both military and civilian airspace, requiring coordination with regulators like the FAA.

The Pentagon’s Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401) is set to deploy new AI-powered UAS capture technology. This move aims to strengthen military airspace defense against unauthorized intrusions. The task force has awarded a contract for two advanced DroneHunter systems. This purchase aligns with the Pentagon’s Replicator 2 initiative. This program focuses on rapidly boosting defense against small drone threats.

The DroneHunter System

Designed by Fortem Technologies, the DroneHunter 4700 (also known as the F700) is a lightweight system. It uses artificial intelligence and radar to identify and pursue other drones. The system captures intruders using an array of expanding nets.

Smaller quadcopter drones are easily captured and towed away using a tether net. The system can also bring down larger unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These include Group 2 drones, which are small fixed-wing aircraft. For these larger targets, the system uses nets equipped with parachutes, called drogues.

A single DroneHunter 4700 system can operate fully autonomously. It can also work with other DroneHunters to guard airspace effectively. The system has demonstrated an impressive 85% success rate in mid-air captures. This makes it a highly effective Pentagon counter-drone technology solution.

Replicator 2 and Aviation Security

The JIATF-401 was established to coordinate counter-drone defense efforts across all military branches. It replaced the Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO). The new task force has expanded authority to deliver capabilities faster. Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, JIATF 401 director, noted the purchase is a key first step. The goal is to deliver state-of-the-art counter-UAS capabilities to warfighters.

The Replicator 2 initiative focuses on protecting critical military installations. It aims to field improved counter-small unmanned aerial system (C-sUAS) protection. This technology is vital for aviation security protocols globally. The growing use of small drones by hostile forces presents a major challenge.

For commercial aviation news, this development is significant. The technology used for autonomous defense systems can secure airport perimeters. However, counter-UAS policy for domestic facilities is complex. It requires coordination with the FAA due to proximity to civilian airspace. The JIATF-401 is also working to support law enforcement for major events. This includes events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Organizations like the ICAO monitor these advancements. They work to ensure global airspace safety standards are maintained. This is a critical area for all stakeholders in commercial aviation news, including manufacturers like Airbus. You can find more updates on these topics in commercial aviation news.