Pentagon adds funding for Roadrunner ship-launch work after flights from a prototype launch enclosure

Anduril Industries/Roadrunner

The Defense Innovation Unit awarded Anduril and Zone 5 Technologies additional funding under its Counter NEXT program after both passed baseline flight tests of their drone interceptors. Anduril's Roadrunner, a jet-powered counter-UAS system, flew from a prototype launch enclosure; both companies will now integrate with Navy combat systems and conduct safety tests ahead of a live-fire event in summer 2026.

• Roadrunner is a high-subsonic jet-powered counter-UAS designed to address cost asymmetry in anti-drone engagements.
• Successful baseline flight tests from a prototype launch enclosure earned additional Pentagon funding.
• Next milestones: integration with Navy ship combat systems, safety qualification testing, and a live-fire event in summer 2026.
• Program addresses Red Sea operations where expensive weapons were expended against low-cost drones.