Performance Drone Works (PDW) and the U.S. Department of Defense have successfully carried out a joint fires operation, integrating the PDW C100 unmanned aerial system with the F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter to deliver precision fire support from the air.
This exercise demonstrated the ability of an operator to safely mark targets from a standoff range with the C100 for joint fires capabilities without need for supporting aircraft.
The demonstration featured three separate engagements at ranges of 1000, 1500, and 2000 meters from the C100 to target. The C100 loitered for approximately 35 minutes at a distance of 3km from the operator and captured a detailed visual description, enabling rapid target acquisition.
Designed as an organic fires platform, the C100 extends soldiers’ effectiveness with a versatile payload suite supporting ISR, target designation, and kinetic effects.
PDW CEO and Co-Founder Ryan Gury said, “This is the second in a series of demonstrations aimed to prove the C100 as the ultimate organic fires platform. The C100 offers a huge leap in tactical flexibility for the warfighter and PDW is ready to equip our forces with a system that can provide that support across various domains.”
This demonstration validated the C100’s role as a modular strike enabler, integrating LTD capability for rapid target handoff to indirect fire, close air support, and maritime platforms. As a stand-off targeting solution, the system delivers organic precision lasing from extended ranges, reducing exposure to manned elements while enhancing operational reach.
