Skydio X10D
In September 2023, Skydio introduced its X10 hand-launched quadcopter ISR drone. It's primary equipment are very high resolution visual and thermal (IR) cameras, and a telephoto lens for object detection and identification at long range. The UAV uses AI enhancement for target identification and obstacle avoidance. The X10D is the version for military use, which doesn't need an internet connection for its AI-driven capabilities. The drone has a modular payload concept - options include a spotlight, speakers, enhanced GPS, and a so-called "NightSense" module for autonomous flight in the dark. For operations in GPS-denied environments, it can use vision-based navigation.
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| Photo: Skydio |
| X10D |
The X10D was one of two finalists for the U.S. Army's SRR (Short Range Reconnaissance) Tranche 2 requirement, to supplement the Tranche 1 RQ-28A X2D. It lost out in the SRR Tranch 2 competition to the Red Cat Black Widow in November 2024. However, in March 2026, the Army ordered more than 2500 X10D drones from Skydio.
Specifications
Note: Data given by several sources show slight variations. Figures given below may therefore be inaccurate!
Data for X10D:
| Dimensions | Flight: 79 cm × 65 cm × 14.5 cm (31.1” × 25.6” × 5.7”) Folded: 35 cm × 16.5 cm × 12 cm (13.8” × 6.5” × 4.7”) |
| Weight | with payload: 2.1 kg (4.1 lb) |
| Speed | 72 km/h (45 mph) |
| Ceiling | ? |
| Range | 10-12 km (6.2-7.5 miles) (wireless link range) |
| Endurance | 35-40 min |
| Propulsion | Electric motors |
Main Sources
[1] Skydio Website: Skydio X10D
[2] DroneXL, Haye Kesteloo: Red Cat
Unseats Skydio to Win U.S. Army’s Next-Gen Drone Contract, November 2024
[3] Skydio Blog: U.S. Army Places $52+
Million Order for Skydio X10D, the Largest Single-Vendor Tactical sUAS Order in Army History, March 2026
Back to Directory of U.S. Military Rockets and Missiles, Appendix 4
Last Updated: 2 April 2026